Role Overview for Head of Corporate Development with a FinTech Company – San Jose, CA
JRG Partners is proud to exclusively represent a category-defining, high-growth FinTech company based in the heart of Silicon Valley. Our client is on a mission to revolutionize the financial landscape through innovative technology, seamless user experiences, and a commitment to financial empowerment. As they enter their next phase of exponential growth, they are seeking a strategic, visionary, and execution-oriented Head of Corporate Development to join their executive team in San Jose, CA.
This is a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with significant exposure to the CEO and the Board of Directors. The Head of Corporate Development will be the architect of the company’s inorganic growth strategy, responsible for identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic acquisitions, investments, and partnerships that will accelerate the company’s roadmap, expand its market presence, and create significant long-term value.
You will be at the forefront of the rapidly evolving FinTech ecosystem, tasked with navigating market dynamics, identifying disruptive trends, and translating those insights into actionable corporate strategy. This position requires a unique blend of financial acumen, strategic prowess, negotiation expertise, and the ability to lead complex, cross-functional initiatives from conception to integration. You will build and mentor a small, high-impact team dedicated to sourcing and executing transformative deals that will shape the future of our client’s business and the industry at large.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Corporate Development with a FinTech Company – San Jose, CA
Strategy Development
Collaborate with the executive leadership team to develop and refine the company’s inorganic growth thesis. Continuously assess the competitive landscape, market trends, and emerging technologies to identify and prioritize strategic opportunities across M&A, investments, and partnerships.
M&A Execution
Lead the end-to-end execution of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This includes building the strategic case, identifying and screening potential targets, developing detailed financial models and valuation analyses, conducting comprehensive due diligence, and structuring and negotiating transaction terms through to definitive agreements.
Strategic Investments
Spearhead the company’s venture and strategic investment activities. Source and evaluate investment opportunities in early-stage FinTech startups that align with our client’s strategic priorities, manage the investment portfolio, and foster relationships within the venture capital community.
Partnership and Alliance Management
Identify, negotiate, and establish key strategic partnerships that drive product innovation, customer acquisition, and new revenue streams. Work with product and business teams to ensure successful implementation and management of these alliances.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Serve as the central point of contact for all corporate development activities. Lead and coordinate cross-functional deal teams, including members from Legal, Finance, Product, Engineering, HR, and Sales, to ensure seamless execution and alignment throughout the transaction lifecycle.
Integration Planning
Partner with a dedicated integration management office (IMO) to develop pre-close integration strategies and plans. Ensure that a clear vision for value creation is established early in the process and that a smooth transition is planned for acquired teams and technology.
Market Intelligence
Act as the company’s primary expert on the competitive and transactional landscape. Develop and maintain a repository of market intelligence, providing regular updates and strategic insights to the executive team and Board of Directors.
Executive & Board Communication
Prepare and present compelling, data-driven recommendations and business cases for proposed transactions to senior leadership and the Board of Directors. Articulate the strategic rationale, financial impact, risks, and opportunities associated with each initiative.
Requirements for the Head of Corporate Development with a FinTech Company – San Jose, CA
Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or venture capital, with a significant portion of that time focused on the technology and/or financial services sectors. Direct experience within a high-growth FinTech environment is strongly preferred.
Transactional Expertise
A proven and extensive track record of successfully leading and closing a variety of complex transactions, including M&A (both buy-side and sell-side), minority investments, and strategic partnerships. Must be able to demonstrate hands-on involvement in all stages of the deal process, from sourcing to integration.
Financial Acumen
Master-level proficiency in financial modeling, valuation methodologies (e.g., DCF, comparable companies, precedent transactions), and deal structuring. Deep understanding of corporate finance, accounting principles, and the nuances of technology company valuation.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think critically and strategically, connecting disparate market trends to the company’s long-term vision. Must be able to move seamlessly between high-level strategic thinking and detail-oriented execution.
Leadership & Influence
Demonstrated experience in building, managing, and mentoring high-performing teams. Exceptional executive presence and the ability to influence and build consensus among senior leaders and stakeholders with diverse perspectives.
Negotiation & Communication Skills
World-class negotiation skills with a history of successfully navigating complex deal terms. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, concise presentations for executive and board-level audiences.
Industry Network
A robust and active network of relationships across the FinTech ecosystem, including startups, venture capital firms, investment banks, and other strategic players.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or a related field is required. An MBA from a top-tier institution is highly preferred.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. They believe in investing in their employees’ well-being, growth, and financial future.
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial equity package (RSUs/stock options) designed for long-term wealth creation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. A generous wellness stipend, access to mental health resources through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and company-sponsored wellness challenges.
Retirement & Financial Planning
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match. Access to financial planning services and resources to help you achieve your financial goals.
Work-Life Harmony
A flexible and generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and comprehensive paid parental leave for all new parents.
Professional Growth
A dedicated annual budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, workshops, and continuing education to support your career advancement.
Office Environment & Perks
A modern, collaborative office space in San Jose, CA. Daily catered lunches, a fully stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages, commuter benefits, and regular team-building events and offsites.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. If you are a strategic leader with a passion for FinTech and a proven track record of driving growth through transformative deals, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your relevant experience and strategic vision. Applications should be sent directly through our portal. Our team will review all submissions and contact qualified candidates for an initial discussion. For more information on our expertise in this space, please connect with JRG Partners’ FinTech recruitment specialists.
