Corporate Development - Acquisitions

Corporate Development - Acquisitions role at ZS.

ZS is a management consulting and technology firm focused on improving life. We transform ideas into impact by bringing together data, science, technology, and human ingenuity to deliver better outcomes.

This role will play a critical part in driving ZS's strategic inorganic growth through acquisitions, minority stakes, business development, and venture opportunities. Reporting to the Executive Director of Corporate Development, you will identify, assess, and execute investments that align with our strategic priorities across technology, data, and AI-led solutions.

• Participate in end‑to‑end M&A processes including pipeline development, valuation and financial modeling, deal structuring, due diligence, and integration planning.
• Collaborate with business leaders to align inorganic growth priorities with ZS’s overall strategy and source investment opportunities.
• Build and maintain detailed financial models (DCF, comparable company, precedent transactions, accretion/dilution, pre/post‑money scenarios) to evaluate targets and support business cases.
• Coordinate commercial and enterprise due diligence with cross‑functional teams (Business, Finance, Legal, IT, HR).
• Assist in negotiating deal structures and working closely with internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare presentation materials for senior stakeholders, including the Investment Committee and Board.

• Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends and inorganic growth opportunities.
• Analyze industry and competitor dynamics to shape growth strategies and acquisition priorities.
• Manage the pipeline and acquisition process for minority investments.
• Develop and maintain relationships with investment bankers, venture and private equity firms, and other industry advisors.

• Partner with integration teams to design and execute post‑close plans.
• Track integration milestones and value delivery for completed transactions.
• Conduct post‑close reviews to capture lessons learned and recommend process improvements for our acquisition playbooks.

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or related field; MBA preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, deal advisory, or related fields.
• Proven record of supporting successful acquisition and minority investment execution from sourcing to integration.
• Experience structuring deals, managing due diligence, and documenting transactions.
• Technical proficiency in financial modeling, valuation, and critical analysis.
• Strong deal process and project management skills.
• Excellent communication, judgment, maturity, and executive‑level communication experience.
• Experience in technology, digital services, or professional services industries expected.
• Familiarity with AI‑enhanced tools and platforms across the deal process is a plus.
• Fluency in English.
• Client‑first mentality and intense work ethic.
• Collaborative spirit and problem‑solving approach.

• Cross‑functional skill development and custom learning pathways.
• Milestone training programs aligned to career progression.
• Internal mobility paths that enable growth through s‑curves, individual contribution, and role expansions.

ZS offers a flexible and connected way of working. ZSers are onsite at clients or ZS offices three days a week, with two days of remote work available. The culture thrives on both planned and spontaneous face‑to‑face connections.

ZS offers a comprehensive total rewards package including health and well‑being, financial planning, annual leave, personal growth and professional development, and robust skill development programs. Internal mobility and collaboration empower you to thrive as an individual and a global team member.

Travel is a requirement for client‑facing ZSers, with the business needs of your project and client taking priority. Client engagement and professional growth may involve traveling across regions and cultures.

We honor the visible and invisible elements of our identities and personal experiences. ZS is committed to building a team that reflects a broad variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Learn more about our inclusion and belonging efforts and the networks ZS supports to help employees thrive.

ZS is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities without regard to any class protected by applicable law.

Candidates must possess or be able to obtain work authorization for their intended country of employment. An online application, including a full set of transcripts (official or unofficial), is required to be considered.