Sr Director, Corporate Development

Imagine playing a pivotal role in shaping the very future of work, connecting businesses with talent worldwide, powered by cutting edge AI. As a Senior Director of Corporate Development at Upwork, you won't just observe the evolution of the global workforce, you'll actively drive it. We're searching for a visionary leader, someone ready to scout new opportunities and forge strategic paths that expand our reach and impact across the globe. This isn't just a job; it's a chance to build something truly transformative with a company at the forefront of innovation.

Overview

Upwork Inc. is a dynamic leader in connecting businesses with global, AI-enabled talent. Our portfolio, including the Upwork Marketplace and Lifted, serves everyone from Fortune 100 enterprises to individual entrepreneurs, empowering them to find expert talent, leverage AI powered work solutions, and transform their workforces. As Sr Director, Corporate Development, you will be instrumental in identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic initiatives that accelerate our growth and market leadership. This critical role involves M&A, strategic investments, and partnerships designed to expand our capabilities and reach. Join our global, fully remote team and help us continue to create opportunity in every era of work.

Key Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and prioritize potential M&A targets, strategic investments, and partnership opportunities that align with Upwork’s strategic priorities and long-term vision.
Lead comprehensive due diligence processes, including financial modeling, market analysis, competitive intelligence, and operational assessments.
Develop robust business cases and financial models to support investment decisions and present findings to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
Negotiate complex transaction terms, working closely with internal legal, finance, and operational teams to achieve favorable outcomes.
Manage the end-to-end transaction lifecycle, from initial outreach and deal structuring through integration planning and execution.
Cultivate strong relationships with external stakeholders, including investment banks, venture capital firms, corporate development peers, and potential target companies.
Monitor market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies to inform strategic planning and opportunity identification.
Collaborate cross functionally with product, engineering, sales, marketing, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration and value realization post acquisition.

Requirements

A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or venture capital, preferably within the technology sector.
Demonstrated track record of successfully identifying, negotiating, and closing complex M&A transactions and strategic investments.
Exceptional financial modeling, valuation, and analytical skills are essential for this role.
Deep understanding of the technology, marketplace, or HR tech industries is a significant advantage.
Strong strategic thinking abilities, with the capacity to identify new opportunities and build compelling business cases.
Outstanding communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, capable of influencing senior stakeholders both internally and externally.
Proven leadership experience, including managing cross functional teams and driving projects to successful completion.
An MBA or equivalent advanced degree from a top tier institution is highly preferred.
Comfort working in a fast paced, dynamic, and fully remote global environment.

What You'll Gain

The unique opportunity to significantly impact Upwork's growth trajectory and market position.
Work with a highly innovative, purpose driven company that is truly transforming the future of work.
Collaborate with a talented and diverse global team in a supportive, remote first culture.
Significant professional development and career advancement opportunities within a rapidly evolving industry.
Contribute to a company that has facilitated over $30 billion in total transactions, fulfilling its mission to create opportunity worldwide.