Meet Mohannad Kailani: Bluebox’s New Analyst

Thursday, 29 October 2026

We’re delighted to introduce Mohannad Kailani, who recently joined Bluebox as an Analyst. Mohannad brings an MSc in Finance from UCL, experience running his own digital marketing business and a background in recruitment, where he placed candidates into buy-side funds.

In this interview, we speak with Mohannad about how recruitment and entrepreneurship led him into M&A, what has surprised him most about how business owners approach selling their company, and the professional milestone he is proudest of. He also shares a little insight into life outside of work.

What were you doing before you joined Bluebox, and how did you end up in corporate finance?

I recently finished my MSc in Finance at UCL. Before that I ran my own digital marketing business, which funded my move into M&A. Earlier still, I worked as a recruitment consultant placing candidates into buy-side funds, and that is where my interest in M&A began.

What has surprised you most about how business owners approach selling their company?

How much more there is to it than price. Some owners want to know what will happen to their staff, their name and their customers, and they will accept a lower valuation or a longer process to make sure the business they built is left in good hands.

What’s a professional milestone you’re particularly proud of?

Joining Bluebox! Breaking into M&A was something I had been working towards for quite some time, from my earlier experience in recruitment through to running my own business, which funded my MSc Finance at UCL. The opportunity to work on live transactions alongside an experienced team has made it particularly rewarding.

What is something you have achieved outside of work that you are proud of?

Winning a Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament.

Rapid fire

  • Excel or PowerPoint?

Excel.

  • First thing you do when you sit down at your desk?

Check my inbox.

  • A book, podcast or newsletter you would recommend?

M&A Science podcast.

  • What is on your desk that probably should not be?

Old sticky notes.

  • Three words your friends would use to describe you?

Driven. Discerning. Compassionate.

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