Director Corporate Development

My client is a large, highly acquisitive software and technology business with a proven track record of growth through M&A and an ambitious AI-focused acquisition strategy already underway. With significant capital for deals and operating at global scale, the company is seeking a Director of Corporate Development to lead and execute strategic acquisitions across North America.

Reporting directly into senior leadership, this individual will play a critical role in shaping the company's inorganic growth agenda, identifying innovative software, AI and data-driven businesses, building relationships with founders and advisors, and leading transactions from origination through to completion and value creation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the sourcing, evaluation and execution of software, SaaS, AI and technology acquisitions across North America.
• Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of acquisition opportunities through direct outreach, industry networks, conferences, advisors and founder relationships.
• Act as a senior ambassador for the business within the software and AI ecosystem, building trusted relationships with founders, executives, investors and intermediaries.
• Drive transaction processes from initial engagement through to signing and close, including valuation, negotiations, deal structuring and documentation.
• Lead strategic and financial analysis, investment committee materials, business case development and synergy assessments.
• Manage all aspects of due diligence, coordinating internal and external stakeholders across product, technology, finance, legal, operations and commercial functions.
• Partner closely with executive leadership to refine acquisition themes and identify opportunities aligned with the company's long-term growth and AI strategy.
• Mentor and support junior corporate development team members while helping to build best-in-class M&A processes and capabilities.
• Support integration planning and value creation initiatives to ensure acquisitions achieve strategic and financial objectives.
• Monitor market developments, competitive activity and emerging technology trends to inform future acquisition strategy.

Candidate Profile

• 10+ years of experience in Corporate Development, M&A, Private Equity, Investment Banking or a related transaction-focused environment.
• Proven track record of leading and closing software, SaaS and technology acquisitions.
• Experience operating at Director level (or similar), with responsibility for managing complex, high-value transaction processes.
• Strong understanding of software business models, recurring revenue economics, vertical software and AI-related market dynamics.
• Exceptional financial modelling, valuation and commercial analysis skills.
• Demonstrated ability to originate transactions and develop relationships directly with founders, management teams and advisors.
• Strong negotiation skills with experience leading deal structuring and transaction execution.
• Capable of influencing senior stakeholders and presenting to executive leadership and investment committees.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced, acquisitive environment.
• Prior experience within a software business or corporate development function is strongly preferred.
• Willingness to travel across North America and internationally as required.