Head of Corporate Strategy

Upwork ($UPWK) is the world’s human and AI-powered work marketplace that connects businesses with highly skilled, AI-enabled independent talent from across the globe. From entrepreneurs to Fortune 100 enterprises, companies rely on Upwork’s trusted platform and its mindful AI companion, Uma, to find and hire expert talent, leverage AI-powered work solutions, and drive business transformation. With on-demand access to professionals spanning more than 10,000 skills across AI & machine learning, software development, sales & marketing, customer support, finance & accounting, and more, Upwork enables businesses of all sizes to scale, innovate, and build agile teams for the age of AI and beyond.

As the Head of Corporate Strategy, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Upwork’s long-term strategic direction. Reporting to the Vice President of Strategy, Corporate Development, and Partnerships, this leader will partner with Upwork’s senior and executive leadership to develop and execute initiatives that enhance Upwork’s market position, drive growth, and increase shareholder value.

The Corporate Strategy team is part of a broader strategy and growth function responsible for strategy creation, M&A and investment activity, business development, and financial/payment partnerships. This high-visibility role provides the opportunity to directly impact Upwork’s long-term success and value creation.

• Drive the development of Upwork’s corporate strategy, focusing on 3–5 year horizons, annual planning, and addressing key business challenges.
• Partner with senior leaders across business units to identify and align on strategic priorities that drive growth and enhance market competitiveness.
• Support strategic planning by conducting scenario analyses and recommending actionable initiatives.
• Thought Leadership
  • Provide actionable insights and recommendations to senior leadership on emerging trends, technologies, and opportunities that align with Upwork’s goals.
  • Act as a strategic advisor to leaders across the organization, offering guidance on critical decisions and initiatives.
  • Contribute to a culture of innovation by identifying and advocating for new business opportunities and go-to-market strategies.
• Research & Analysis
  • Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative analyses to address key strategic questions, uncover insights, and inform decision-making.
  • Lead efforts to analyze market dynamics, competitive positioning, and emerging opportunities to ensure Upwork remains a market leader.
  • Own addressable market (TAM) analyses, identifying growth potential and strategic areas for investment.
• Project Management & Execution
  • Manage cross-functional initiatives that align corporate strategy with operational execution and financial planning.
  • Work closely with FP&A, Analytics, and Business Units to integrate strategy into long-term planning and ensure alignment with company goals.
  • Prepare materials for key stakeholders, including quarterly board presentations, to communicate progress and insights.
• Manage and mentor a team of strategy professionals, fostering a collaborative environment that drives high-quality outputs and professional growth.
• Encourage cross-functional collaboration to ensure strategic initiatives are well-informed and executable.
• Act as a role model for Upwork’s values, promoting a results-driven, innovative, and inclusive culture.

• 12+ years of experience in corporate strategy, management consulting, investment banking or a related field
• A proven track record of strategic development in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, preferably in technology, marketplaces, or Human Capital Management.
• Exceptional analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience building and mentoring high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.
• Organized, structured, and highly proactive with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• MBA or quantitative degree…