Role Overview for Head of Corporate M&A Strategy with a Public Technology Firm – Seattle, WA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a category-defining, publicly-traded technology firm based in the vibrant tech hub of Seattle, WA. Our client is a leader in its space, renowned for its innovation, market leadership, and a culture that fosters ambitious growth. As they continue to expand their global footprint and technological capabilities, the strategic acquisition of companies, talent, and technology has become a central pillar of their long-term vision. To spearhead this critical function, they are seeking an experienced, strategic, and results-driven executive to join their leadership team as the Head of Corporate M&A Strategy.
This is not merely a transaction-focused role; it is a position of immense strategic importance. The Head of Corporate M&A Strategy will act as a key architect of the company’s future, responsible for the entire inorganic growth lifecycle. You will be at the nexus of strategy, finance, and technology, working directly with the C-suite and Board of Directors to identify market opportunities, develop acquisition theses, and execute deals that will redefine the company’s trajectory for years to come. You will be empowered to build and lead a world-class corporate development function, driving a disciplined yet agile process from initial sourcing and evaluation through to negotiation, closing, and post-merger integration oversight. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of the technology landscape, a robust network within the investment and tech communities, and a proven track record of executing complex M&A transactions that create substantial shareholder value.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Corporate M&A Strategy with a Public Technology Firm – Seattle, WA
As the leader of the M&A function, you will have a broad and impactful mandate. Your responsibilities will be dynamic and will require a blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and executive leadership. Key duties include:
M&A Strategy Development and Execution
You will collaborate closely with the CEO, CFO, Chief Strategy Officer, and other executive leaders to develop, refine, and champion the company’s overall inorganic growth strategy. This involves translating corporate objectives into a tangible M&A roadmap, identifying key areas for investment, and building consensus around strategic priorities. You will be responsible for creating a proactive, thesis-driven approach to sourcing that goes beyond reactive deal flow.
Target Sourcing and Pipeline Management
Proactively identify, source, and cultivate a robust pipeline of potential acquisition, acqui-hire, and strategic investment opportunities. This requires building and maintaining a strong network of relationships with investment bankers, venture capitalists, private equity firms, and industry executives. You will lead the initial screening and evaluation of all inbound and outbound opportunities, ensuring alignment with the company’s strategic goals.
Due Diligence and Valuation Leadership
Quarterback the entire due diligence process, leading large, cross-functional due diligence teams comprised of internal experts (from Product, Engineering, Sales, Legal, HR, Finance) and external advisors. You are ultimately responsible for the integrity of the diligence process, ensuring all key risks and opportunities are identified. You will oversee the creation of sophisticated and defensible financial models, synergy analyses, and various valuation methodologies (DCF, public comps, precedent transactions) to support your recommendations.
Transaction Negotiation and Execution
Act as the lead negotiator on behalf of the company, structuring all aspects of a transaction from term sheets and Letters of Intent (LOIs) to definitive purchase agreements. You will be the primary point of contact for target company executives and their advisors, skillfully navigating complex negotiations to achieve favorable terms while preserving positive relationships.
Executive and Board Communication
You will be responsible for preparing and presenting clear, concise, and compelling investment theses and transaction recommendations to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors. Your ability to articulate complex financial and strategic concepts, defend your assumptions, and build conviction at the highest levels of the organization will be critical to your success.
Post-Merger Integration (PMI) Oversight
While not directly managing the day-to-day integration, you will be a key partner to the dedicated Integration Management Office (IMO). You will ensure that the strategic rationale and value drivers identified during diligence are successfully translated into a concrete integration plan with clear KPIs and accountability. You will monitor the performance of acquired entities post-close to ensure value realization.
Team Leadership and Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-caliber corporate development team. You will foster a culture of analytical rigor, strategic thinking, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Your leadership will be instrumental in developing the next generation of strategic leaders within the company.
Requirements for the Head of Corporate M&A Strategy with a Public Technology Firm – Seattle, WA
This senior leadership role demands a candidate with a distinguished track record of success in high-stakes corporate development. We are seeking an individual who combines deep technical expertise with exceptional business judgment and leadership presence. The following qualifications are essential:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field is required. An MBA from a top-tier institution is highly preferred and strongly correlated with success in this role.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in a relevant field such as corporate development, investment banking (M&A focus), private equity, or venture capital. Crucially, this must include at least 7-10 years of direct experience leading the full lifecycle of M&A transactions within the technology sector.
Proven Deal Sheet
A demonstrable track record of successfully leading and closing multiple complex M&A transactions, ranging from small acqui-hires to large, transformative acquisitions. Experience executing deals within a publicly-traded company environment is a significant asset.
Expert Financial and Analytical Skills
Mastery of complex financial modeling, corporate valuation, and deal structuring. You must possess an expert-level understanding of accounting principles and the ability to dissect financial statements to uncover underlying trends and risks.
Strategic and Commercial Acumen
The ability to think beyond the numbers to understand the strategic implications of a transaction. You must have a deep understanding of technology industry trends, competitive landscapes, and various business models (SaaS, platform, etc.).
Exceptional Communication and Influence
World-class written and verbal communication skills are non-negotiable. You must have proven experience presenting to and influencing C-level executives and Boards of Directors, with an ability to distill complex information into a clear and compelling narrative.
Leadership and Management Skills
Prior experience building and managing high-performance teams is required. You should be a leader who inspires confidence, fosters a collaborative environment, and is dedicated to mentoring and developing talent.
Negotiation Prowess
You are a seasoned and sophisticated negotiator, capable of driving to a successful outcome in high-pressure, multi-stakeholder situations.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package commensurate with the strategic importance of this role. You can expect:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive compensation package including a substantial base salary, an aggressive annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity component (RSUs/Stock Options) that ensures you share in the value you help create.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Full suite of premium health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. The package also includes robust wellness programs, mental health support, and gym subsidies.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous and flexible paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays and comprehensive parental leave.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, industry conferences, and other professional development opportunities to keep you at the forefront of your field.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates moving to the Seattle area.
Location & Culture
The opportunity to work at the headquarters of a dynamic and innovative company in one of the world’s leading technology centers.
How to Apply
This is a retained search exclusively managed by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary M&A leader with the experience and drive to shape the future of a global technology leader, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant M&A experience and strategic accomplishments. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
