A Win-Win: Self-funded Searchers as Freelance Talent for New Operators?

August 29, 2025

by a searcher from WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management in Munich, Germany

Hello Searchfunders, I see a common challenge in our community: self-funded searchers face runway pressure, while (I can imagine) new operators are often overwhelmed and appreciate immediate help executing their plans post acquisition. The Idea: Matchmaking for Project-Based Work What if we connect new operators with active self-funded searchers for short-term, paid projects? This creates a powerful win-win: For Self-funded Searchers: Extend your financial runway while gaining invaluable, hands-on experience inside a post-acquisition SMB. It’s essentially paid training for your future CEO role. For New Operators: Access affordable, highly-motivated talent (MBAs, ex-consultants) to tackle critical projects without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire. While compensation would be below past corporate salaries, the blend of income and direct operational experience could be a compelling offer. Quick Questions: Is this already happening? What have been the key takeaways? Operators: Would you hire an active searcher for a 3-6 month project? What are your reservations? Searchers: Would you want to complement your search with a gig like this? What would make it an easy "yes"? Looking forward to the discussion.

Reply by a searcher
from University of Southern California in New York, NY, USA

I’m still in search. But as I start to model out post acquisition and think of hiring needs, the last thing I would want is to train someone for 3-6 months just knowing they’re going to leave to do their own thing. But I do agree with the merits of freelancing. On a project basis, I will perform fractional work as a sales mercenary for hire. Mostly in person work at conferences. High volume, short periods of working time, networking, and no lead follow-up.

Reply by a searcher
from American University of Paris in Cuxhaven, Germany

^redacted‌, love this idea. As a self-funded searcher, I really feel both sides of what you’re describing. To your questions: Is this happening? I’ve seen small, informal versions of this (searchers helping friends who closed deals, or short consulting-style gigs), but nothing structured or widely visible. Would I, as a searcher, do this? Perhaps, with a few guardrails: • The work would need to be clearly scoped so it doesn’t completely take over the search. • Ideally it would be remote or flexible so I can keep running my process. • There should be a clear link to learning - exposure to systems, playbooks, and challenges that I’ll face as an operator later. Things that would make it an easy “yes” for me: • A defined time commitment (e.g., 10–20 hours/week for 3 months). • A project that touches something meaningful: sales ops, pricing, systems, onboarding, process improvement, or reporting - not just generic busywork. • An operator who’s open to sharing context and treating it as both work and learning. Let's connect on Linkedin and chat 💬💭

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