Merger & Acquisition Analyst - Sell side engagement

My client is an engineering consulting firm (approx 100 employees) that has decided to explore if selling to a strategic is in the best interests of the shareholders. We want an experienced analyst to research other engineering firms active in M&A and those who could have an interest in purchasing client company. Criteria for the buyers' list could include, but not be limited to, recent acquisition activity, strategic fit (geographic expansion, adding expertise, growth, etc.). We want more than a Google search --- analyst should have access to relevant M&A data bases. When a public company is involved we would want review of SEC filings pertaining to strategy and recent acquisitions. We would handle contacting potential buyers who pass the screening. There is the potential for on going financial analysis, bid evaluation and transaction support if client decides to pursue selling company.