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# VP of Corporate Development – Cambridge, MA


Role Overview for VP of Corporate Development – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is delighted to partner with a leading, innovative organization in the vibrant Cambridge, MA biotech and life sciences ecosystem to recruit a visionary and results-driven Vice President of Corporate Development. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction and accelerating the growth trajectory of a company at the forefront of its industry.
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a global hub for scientific research, technological innovation, and venture capital, making it an ideal location for a role focused on strategic partnerships and mergers & acquisitions. The successful candidate will be instrumental in identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic transactions that will drive significant value creation and expand the company’s market presence and capabilities. This role demands a unique blend of financial acumen, strategic thinking, deal-making expertise, and leadership capabilities.
As the VP of Corporate Development, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to an executive leader and working closely with the CEO, CFO, and other functional heads. Your strategic insights will directly influence the company’s long-term vision and competitive positioning. You will be tasked with identifying synergistic opportunities that align with the company’s core objectives, whether through mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, licensing agreements, or strategic alliances.
This is not merely a transactional role; it is a strategic imperative to foster innovation, expand market reach, and enhance shareholder value through thoughtful and impactful corporate development initiatives. We are seeking an individual who thrives in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment, possesses an entrepreneurial spirit, and has a proven track record of successfully navigating complex deal landscapes within the life sciences, biotech, or high-tech sectors.
The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of industry trends, a robust network within the investment banking and venture capital communities, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This role offers the chance to make a profound impact on a growing organization, contributing directly to its evolution and market leadership. If you are a strategic leader with a passion for corporate development and a desire to operate at the highest level within a dynamic industry, JRG Partners invites you to explore this compelling opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Corporate Development – Cambridge, MA
Strategic Planning & Opportunity Identification
Proactively identify, evaluate, and prioritize strategic growth opportunities, including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, licensing agreements, and strategic partnerships, aligning with the company’s long-term strategic objectives and market position. Conduct comprehensive market research, competitive analysis, and industry trend assessment to inform strategic decisions and identify potential targets.
Deal Sourcing & Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with investment banks, venture capital firms, private equity funds, corporate development peers, and potential strategic partners to build a robust pipeline of opportunities. Lead initial outreach and engagement with target companies and their advisors.
Full M&A Lifecycle Leadership
Spearhead the entire M&A lifecycle from initial screening and evaluation through due diligence, valuation, negotiation, structuring, and successful closing. This includes developing compelling business cases and strategic rationales for potential transactions.
Financial Modeling & Valuation Expertise
Develop and manage complex financial models, including detailed valuation analyses (DCF, comparable company analysis, precedent transactions, LBO models), synergy assessments, and accretion/dilution analyses to support investment decisions and deal structuring. Clearly articulate financial implications to executive leadership.
Due Diligence Management
Lead and coordinate comprehensive cross-functional due diligence efforts (commercial, financial, legal, operational, technical, HR, regulatory) with internal stakeholders and external advisors (e.g., legal counsel, consultants, auditors). Identify key risks and opportunities associated with potential transactions.
Negotiation & Deal Structuring
Drive and lead negotiations with target companies, their shareholders, and advisors. Work closely with legal counsel to structure and finalize definitive transaction agreements, ensuring optimal terms and risk mitigation for the company.
Post-Merger Integration (PMI) Collaboration
Collaborate effectively with internal integration teams to develop and execute post-merger integration plans. Ensure the seamless transition of acquired assets, teams, and technologies, and facilitate the realization of identified synergies and strategic objectives.
Presentation & Communication
Prepare and deliver high-impact presentations, strategic recommendations, and detailed financial analyses to senior leadership, the Board of Directors, and other key stakeholders. Clearly articulate deal rationales, risks, and expected returns.
Market Intelligence & Thought Leadership
Stay continuously informed about industry trends, competitive landscape, technological advancements, and regulatory changes within the relevant sectors. Provide thought leadership and strategic insights to the executive team on potential market shifts and opportunities.
Team Leadership & Development
If applicable, build, mentor, and lead a high-performing corporate development team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Requirements for the VP of Corporate Development – Cambridge, MA
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a closely related field from a top-tier university. An MBA from a highly reputable institution is strongly preferred. CFA designation or equivalent financial certification is a plus.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive, hands-on experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or strategic consulting, with a significant emphasis on M&A transaction execution. Experience in a leadership role, managing complex deals from inception to close, is critical.
Industry Expertise
Strong preference for candidates with direct and extensive experience within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or high-growth technology sectors. A deep understanding of the unique market dynamics, regulatory landscape, R&D processes, and commercialization pathways in these industries is essential.
Technical Acumen
Expert-level proficiency in financial modeling, valuation methodologies (DCF, comparable company analysis, precedent transactions), and strong understanding of accounting principles (GAAP/IFRS). Demonstrated ability to build sophisticated financial models from scratch and present complex financial data clearly.
Deal Track Record
Proven track record of successfully identifying, evaluating, negotiating, and closing multiple complex M&A transactions, strategic partnerships, and/or licensing deals, preferably across various deal sizes and structures.
Leadership & Project Management
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, and drive consensus among diverse stakeholders. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are paramount.
Analytical & Strategic Thinking
Superior analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Ability to synthesize complex information, identify key insights, and formulate actionable strategic recommendations.
Communication & Negotiation
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial and strategic concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior executives and board members. Highly developed negotiation and influencing skills are required.
Interpersonal Skills
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and establish credibility quickly with internal and external partners. High level of professional maturity and integrity.
Location
Ability to work full-time onsite in Cambridge, MA, with willingness to travel as required for deal execution and relationship building.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. As the Vice President of Corporate Development, you will be eligible for a robust suite of perks, including:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience, combined with a significant performance-based bonus structure and potential for long-term incentive plans (e.g., equity or stock options).
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, with a focus on robust coverage and employee well-being. Includes access to wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with substantial company matching contributions, designed to help you plan for a secure financial future.
Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, encouraging work-life balance and personal rejuvenation.
Professional Development
Significant opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, including access to industry conferences, executive education programs, certifications, and internal leadership development initiatives.
Dynamic Work Environment
Join a collaborative, innovative, and intellectually stimulating culture where your contributions are valued, and you are empowered to make a real impact on the company’s success.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Work in modern, well-equipped office spaces located in the vibrant biotech hub of Cambridge, MA, offering easy access to amenities, public transportation, and a thriving professional community.
Employee Programs
Access to various employee assistance programs, commuter benefits, and other perks designed to enhance your daily work experience.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to play a critical role in strategic decision-making and directly contribute to the growth and success of a leading organization in a cutting-edge industry.
How to Apply
If you are a highly qualified and ambitious corporate development leader ready to take on a transformative role in Cambridge, MA, JRG Partners invites you to submit your application. We are committed to connecting exceptional talent with unparalleled opportunities.
To apply, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, key achievements in corporate development, and your interest in this specific role. In your cover letter, please highlight your experience within the biotech, pharmaceutical, or life sciences sectors, and specifically address your track record of successfully executed M&A transactions.
For more information on our expertise in executive search within this specialized domain, please visit our Life Sciences Executive Search practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how your expertise can drive the strategic growth of our client.