The Group Strategy and Corporate Development Team (The Team) is responsible for analyzing and executing strategic initiatives and M&A opportunities across the Group. This high profile unit works directly with the Group Chief Executive’s office, and liaises closely with the Group Finance Director and other members of the Group Executive Committee.

The team is deployed against key Group priorities including portfolio and competitive strategy; they regularly partner with business units and their strategists to develop organic strategic initiatives and cross-business opportunities. The team also work on M&A target screening and early-stage analysis of potential strategic transactions through due diligence and deal support and execution.

The Associate typically supports the Senior Associates and Strategy Directors in the research and execution of major strategic projects and transactions by managing day to day elements of a transaction and support the development of Group and Business value strategy through strategy research and analysis of key strategic initiatives.

There is a strong track record of moving strategists into stretching commercial roles and past members of the team successfully moved onto other line positions within Group business units after 2 to 3 years, whilst others have been promoted within the team.

They seek individuals with an undergraduate degree from a top-tier institution (pre-MBA) with  relevant work experience with a strategy consultancy firm, investment bank and/or the internal strategy or corporate development units of a blue-chip firm. Experience in or knowledge of the Financial Services industry through work experience or relevant project experience is strongly preferred, but not essential. Direct experience with strategy formulation is mandatory.

Basic strategic consulting skills are required: superior problem-solving abilities, solid cross-functional collaboration skills, quantitative and analytic aptitude, structured thinking and communication, and the ability to grasp and synthesize complex business issues effectively.

Mastery of accounting principles, fluent Excel and Powerpoint, and financial modelling experience are also essential. An understanding of corporate finance, an interest in M&A and experience with corporate strategy and transactions are preferred, but not essential.

The successful candidate will work well in a team and under pressure; as a future leader within the group, we would look for evidence of strong interpersonal and leadership abilities as well as cultural fit with both the team and the Group.

You must have the right to work in the UK and verifiable references. European language skills are not essential, but are preferred.