Corporate Development Associate

Upwork ($UPWK) is the world’s work marketplace. We serve everyone from one-person startups to over 30% of the Fortune 100 with a powerful, trust-driven platform that enables companies and talent to work together in new ways that unlock their potential.  

Last year, more than $3.8 billion of work was done through Upwork by skilled professionals who are gaining more control by finding work they are passionate about and innovating their careers.

As an Associate, Corporate Development, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of Upwork. You will collaborate closely with leaders at the company to develop and execute on a variety of inorganic M&A and investment strategies (e.g., acquisitions, mergers, corporate venture capital) that drive growth, enhance competitiveness, and further our overall mission. This position requires a highly analytical and motivated individual with a curiosity to learn and ability to evaluate markets, analyze companies and build financial models and strategic business cases. You will report to the Director of Corporate Development and interface with leaders throughout Upwork.

The Corporate Development team is part of a broader strategy and growth function responsible for end-to-end execution of Upwork’s strategy creation, M&A and investment activity, business development and channel and financial/payment partnerships. This will be a highly visible and impactful position that will offer the opportunity to drive long-term value creation for the company. 

Your Responsibilities:

• Serve as an internal investment banker / consultant for executive management and team leads to assess and define strategic needs, identify challenges, and develop relevant inorganic solutions.

• Research companies in surrounding industries, synthesizing and communicating learnings about the landscape with leaders throughout our company.

• Conduct rigorous market and financial analysis including business case and financial modeling, build vs. buy analysis to analyze and present recommendations on potential acquisitions, investments and other strategic growth opportunities.

• Engage in all aspects of the M&A and investment process, including strategic planning, market/sector/target evaluation, business case development, financial modeling, due diligence, deal negotiation, board material preparation, and integration efforts.

What it takes to catch our eye:

• 2-4 years experience in M&A transactions and/or strategic investments as a Corporate Development, Investment Banking, Private Equity or Venture Capital professional.

• Strong analytical and financial modeling skills with an ability to build complex operating, financial, and valuation …