The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Director, Global Strategic Partnerships (internal promotion)
3-5 years at Director levelSkills to master
- Mastering global ecosystem P&L management, building and scaling high-performing leadership teams, driving multi-million-pound partner-influenced revenue, and consistently presenting strategic initiatives to the C-suite.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistent over-achievement of ecosystem revenue and ROI targets.
- Successful launch of 2+ new global partner programmes that opened significant new markets.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team of 10-20+ direct and indirect reports.
- Strong relationships and credibility with internal C-suite stakeholders and key external partners.
- 2
Head of Corporate Development / M&A (external hire)
5-7 years in a senior corporate development roleSkills to master
- Expertise in identifying, vetting, and executing strategic acquisitions, strong financial modelling and valuation skills, and a deep understanding of market dynamics and competitive landscapes.
You're ready to move on when
- Successful completion of 3+ strategic M&A transactions, with demonstrable value creation.
- Proven ability to lead complex due diligence processes and integration planning.
- Strong network within the investment banking and private equity communities.
- A clear understanding of how M&A can accelerate ecosystem growth and strategic positioning.
- 3
VP/SVP of Sales or Business Development (external/internal)
7-10 years in senior sales/BD leadershipSkills to master
- Building and scaling global sales organisations, driving multi-billion-pound revenue targets, deep client relationships, and a strong understanding of go-to-market strategies, with a clear focus on the role of partners in achieving sales objectives.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistent over-achievement of sales targets in a complex BPO environment.
- Experience building and managing large sales teams (100+).
- A strategic mindset that views partners as a critical extension of the sales force, not just a channel.
- Demonstrated ability to influence product roadmaps and market strategy.