This where a manager or a management team from outside the company raises the necessary finance, buys it, and becomes the company's new management. A management buy-in team often competes with other purchasers in the search for a suitable business. Usually, the team will be led by a manager with significant experience at managing director level.

Difference to management buy-out is the position of the purchaser. They are either already working for the company in the case of a buy-out, or, a manager or management team is from another source in the case of a buy-in.

Among the private equity groups and executive search firms that focus on management buy-ins are GTCR Golder Rauner, Frontenac Company, and Pinnacle CEO Recruiters.