Head of Corporate Development & Strategy

About us

ClearBank was built on the belief that banking infrastructure would no longer slow down progress. Instead, it’s the catalyst that unlocks the potential to innovate. That’s why our clients — financial institutions from fintech’s and crypto platforms, to banks and credit unions — use our API to power their banking infrastructure.

But we wouldn’t be ClearBank without our people. They’re what powers our innovative technology and the reason we love what we do every day. We’re a group of spirited people who are never afraid to challenge the norm – becoming stronger, more energised, and that much better when we’re together. It’s our belief in fairness, autonomy and choice that means our people are empowered with the tools to learn, grow, and contribute to ours and our clients’ success. Interested in joining us? Read on or visit our website for more information.

About you

You’ll be joining the as the Head of Corporate Development and Strategy. Reporting to the CFO, you’ll be a part of a fast-growing business that is challenging the market and doing things differently.

As the seasoned Head of Corporate Development and Strategy you’ll lead our M&A efforts, strategy formulation, external benchmarking, and internal strategic reviews. This role is critical for driving the company's growth and competitive positioning in the financial services industry, you’ll be working closely with the Executive Committee (ExCo) and the CEO to identify and pursue strategic opportunities that align with ClearBank's vision and objectives.

And you’ll be joining the #14 fastest-growing tech company in the UK, according to Deloitte Fast 50.

You will be

• Developing and executing a comprehensive corporate development strategy that includes potential mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships
• Leading the due diligence process for potential M&A transactions, coordinating with internal teams and external advisors
• Conducting external benchmarking to evaluate industry trends across the UK & European payments and embedded banking sector, the competitive landscape, and potential strategic opportunities
• Overseeing a number of strategic reviews to assess the performance of various business units and identify areas for improvement
• Collaborating with ExCo and the CEO to refine corporate strategy and provide recommendations based on market analysis and financial modelling
• Building and maintaining relationships with key industry players, investment bankers, and advisors to facilitate strategic initiatives
• Presenting findings and strategic proposals to Investors and other key stakeholders
• Line manage and mentor a Corporate Development Analyst, providing guidance and oversight on projects and professional development

Requirements

What we are looking for

• Extensive experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or a related field, with a proven track record in M&A transactions
• Understanding of the UK and European payments landscape, as well as embedded banking / banking as a service
• Deep financial acumen and experience with financial modelling, valuation techniques, and analysis
• Excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop junior team members
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the capacity to engage with senior executives and external partners effectively
• Strategic thinker with a keen analytical mind and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• High level of discretion and integrity, handling confidential information with the utmost professionalism

Benefits

About what we offer

• At ClearBank we have a flexible working philosophy, empowering our employees to manage their time in a way which allows them to meet both work and personal commitments, in partnership with their line manager
• Spacious and well-equipped new offices in London and Bristol
• 27 days annual leave per year, plus flexible bank holidays
• The option to work outside of the UK for up to 30 days per year
• Regular company-wide socials
• Take a couple of days per year to volunteer with your chosen charity to do something bigger than ClearBank
• Private healthcare through Healix and discounted Bupa dental cover, with employee healthy living perks and discounts through YuLife
• Enhanced family-friendly leave
• Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to join an innovative team that’s building a bank fit for the future! 🚀

ClearBank is committed to ensuring equal opportunities throughout every stage of the recruitment process. ClearBank recognises that diversity is vital to the long-term success of the business in the communities and markets in which it operates. ClearBank is also a firm believer that an inclusive culture fosters greater employee engagement and collaboration.

ClearBank strives for diversity and inclusion of all forms, including (but not limited to): gender, age, educational and professional background, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

As part of the Company’s commitment to equal employment opportunity, we provide reasonable adjustments, to candidates during the recruitment process, including to individuals with disabilities. We want to create a safe space that welcomes everyone so please let us know how we can accommodate you. In case you have any accessibility requirements you can share this with our Talent Acquisition team prior to your interview stage, if applicable.

The legal bit

By submitting your CV, you confirm that you can demonstrate you have the right to work in the UK. Regretfully we are not in a position to sponsor applicants for immigration purposes at the current time. By submitting your CV to ClearBank Limited you are providing your consent for us to use the information you provide for recruitment purposes. For more information on how we manage your data go and check out our Candidate Privacy Notice on the ClearBank website to see how we process, manage and look after your data. You are also allowing us to communicate with you by email and telephone for recruitment purposes.