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
Lead, Global Opportunity Development (L4)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Managing complex, cross-functional market entry projects, leading small teams, defining strategic approaches for specific markets, and influencing senior stakeholders.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivering successful market entry projects with measurable ROI.
- Demonstrating strong leadership and mentorship of junior team members.
- Successfully navigating ambiguous situations and making sound strategic trade-offs.
- Building a reputation as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on international matters.
- 2
Principal, Global Opportunity (L5)
2-4 yearsSkills to master
- Directing a team of strategists, serving as a foremost subject matter expert on a critical region or strategic area, owning significant P&L or budget responsibilities, and shaping functional strategy.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully building and leading high-performing teams.
- Consistently delivering significant business impact through strategic initiatives.
- Recognised as an internal authority whose counsel is sought on critical international decisions.
- Proactively identifying and addressing organisational challenges related to global expansion.
- 3
Director, Corporate Development (with international focus)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Deep expertise in M&A deal sourcing, valuation, negotiation, and post-merger integration, specifically for international targets. Building relationships with investment banks and private equity firms.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully leading multiple M&A transactions from identification to close.
- Strong financial acumen and ability to assess complex deal structures.
- Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams during due diligence and integration.
- A robust network within the M&A advisory community.