Strategic Initiatives Lead

The Strategic Initiatives Lead plays a key role in how Vanguard identifies, evaluates, and advances inorganic opportunities from early thesis development through execution alignment and value realization.In this role, you will work across strategy, corporate development, and business teams to conduct analysis, develop materials, and support the evaluation and execution of inorganic opportunities.Responsibilities:Opportunity Framing & Market InsightsAnalyze industry trends, competitor activity, and emerging capabilities relevant to Vanguard’s prioritiesDevelop core deliverables such as market maps, target lists, competitive analyses, and opportunity briefsSynthesize research into clear insights that inform early-stage opportunity evaluationStrategic Prioritization & Opportunity DevelopmentSupport intake, screening, and prioritization of inorganic opportunities using established frameworksHelp assess strategic fit, potential value drivers, and key risks through structured analysisPartner with business sponsors and deal teams to refine opportunity scope, define strategic objectives, and assess potential partnership or deal structures, including scenario analysis and key value driversDeal Shaping, Diligence & ExecutionPartner closely with M&A, partnerships, and venture teams to refine opportunities as they progress through diligence and negotiationContribute to development of partnership constructs, commercial models, and key business termsCollaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and clearly communicate in-depth market research, analyses, and detailed models to senior stakeholdersManage assigned components of workstreams (e.g., research, analysis, deliverables) with guidance from senior team membersBuild and evolve playbooks, standards, and working models that improve speed, rigor, and execution qualityValue Realization & Ongoing Partnership SupportSupport the tracking of key metrics and performance indicators across partnerships and venture investmentsEnable post-deal success through structured engagement (e.g., pilots, commercialization support, executive alignment)Capture and feed lessons learned back into future thesis development and prioritizationParticipate in special projects and performs other duties as assigned. This role requires strong conceptual thinking, comfort with ambiguity, project management skills, and the ability to operate independently while collaborating across teams. You will lead workstreams, influence senior stakeholders, and help raise the overall bar for how inorganic opportunities are selected and evaluated at Vanguard.Qualifications:5+ years of related experience, with demonstrated experience leading complex, cross‑functional initiatives in strategy, consulting, corporate development, venture, or adjacent fieldsPrior experience with strategic partnerships and M&A preferred.Undergraduate degree or equivalent combination of training and experience. MBA preferred.Special FactorsSponsorshipVanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.About VanguardAt Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.How We WorkVanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.SummaryLocation: Malvern, PAType: Full time