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- Tasks: Lead M&A strategy and identify growth opportunities in the parking and mobility sectors.
- Company: APCOA is Europe's top parking operator, managing over 12,000 locations across 12 countries.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and a dynamic work environment focused on innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of urban mobility while working in a fast-paced, collaborative culture.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in corporate development or investment banking, preferably in parking or real estate.
- Other info: Join an inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
APCOA is Europe's leading parking operator, managing over 12,000 locations across 12 countries. As we transform from traditional parking provider to urban mobility hub operator, we're seeking exceptional talent to drive our financial strategy and performance.
The Head of Corporate Development will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic acquisition opportunities and investment initiatives to accelerate the company's growth objectives. This role will lead all aspects of the M&A process while serving as a key member of the Investment Committee to shape the company's capital allocation strategy. The ideal candidate will possess a proactive mindset and strong understanding of the competitive landscape in the parking and mobility industry, constantly assessing acquisition opportunities and strategic land or parking asset deals. Experience in infrastructure, real estate, car rental, or hospitality (e.g. hotels) is highly valued. Familiarity with private equity firms that manage real estate clients is also of interest.
Key Responsibilities
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Develop and implement the company's M&A strategy in alignment with overall business objectives
- Identify and evaluate potential acquisition targets in the parking industry and adjacent sectors, including technology companies that support parking and mobility services
- Continuously monitor the market and competition, proactively assessing acquisition opportunities across both companies and real assets (e.g., land and parking spaces)
- Lead comprehensive due diligence processes, including financial, operational, and strategic assessments
- Structure and negotiate deal terms, working closely with legal counsel and financial advisors
- Present acquisition recommendations to executive leadership and the board of directors
- Manage the integration planning process to ensure value capture and smooth transitions
- Build and maintain relationships with industry contacts, investment banks, and private equity firms
- Investment Committee
- Serve as a core member of the company's Investment Committee
- Evaluate capital expenditure proposals and investment opportunities
- Develop financial models and investment theses for major initiatives
- Contribute to capital allocation decisions across the organization
- Monitor performance of completed investments against projections
- Make recommendations on portfolio optimization and divestitures as appropriate
- Strategic Planning
- Support the development of the company's long-term strategic plan
- Analyse market opportunities and potential new business models
- Evaluate strategic partnerships and joint venture opportunities
- Lead special projects related to corporate development initiatives
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in corporate development, investment banking, or private equity, preferably with exposure to the parking industry or related infrastructure/real estate sectors
- Direct experience working with or within PE firms that manage real estate-focused portfolios is a plus
- Proven track record of successfully executing M&A transactions from identification through integration
- Strong financial modelling, valuation, and analytical skills with experience in deal structuring
- Excellent negotiation skills and ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders
- Superior communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration or related field
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or advanced degree in finance or related field
- Experience in real estate development, infrastructure investment, or technology integration
- Knowledge of parking industry dynamics, technology trends, and key players
- Prior experience serving on an Investment Committee
- Familiarity with smart city initiatives and mobility solutions
Personal Attributes
- Strategic thinker with strong business acumen
- Results-oriented with ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
- Proactive and self-motivated, with the drive to identify opportunities and deliver results
- Strong leadership skills with ability to influence across organizational levels
- Collaborative approach with excellent interpersonal skills
- High ethical standards and integrity
Additional Information
Opportunity to shape and influence the brand strategy of a leading company in the parking industry. Work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a focus on innovation and growth. Competitive salary and benefits package. Access to leadership opportunities and professional development. APCOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.
Head of Corporate Development employer: Paradies Lagardère - Retail
Contact Detail:
Paradies Lagardère - Retail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Corporate Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the parking and mobility industry. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and local meetups to connect with key players and learn about potential opportunities that may not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on market trends and developments in urban mobility and parking solutions. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations with industry leaders and demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of APCOA to gain insights into the company culture and expectations for the Head of Corporate Development role. This can provide you with valuable information to tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific M&A transactions you've led in the past, focusing on your role in the process and the outcomes. Highlighting your direct experience will showcase your capability to handle the responsibilities of this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Corporate Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in corporate development, M&A, and the parking or mobility industry. Use specific examples of past achievements that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of APCOA's transformation into an urban mobility hub. Emphasise your proactive mindset and how your skills can contribute to their financial strategy and performance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as financial modelling, negotiation, and strategic planning. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully executed M&A transactions or developed investment strategies in previous roles.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your familiarity with the parking industry and related sectors. Mention any insights you have about market trends, competitive landscapes, or technology integration that could benefit APCOA's growth objectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at Paradies Lagardère - Retail
✨Understand the Industry Landscape
Before your interview, make sure to research the parking and mobility industry thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key players, and recent developments. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your proactive mindset and understanding of the competitive landscape.
✨Prepare for M&A Discussions
Given the role's focus on mergers and acquisitions, be ready to discuss your past experiences in executing M&A transactions. Prepare specific examples that highlight your skills in deal structuring, negotiation, and integration planning, as these will be crucial to the interview.
✨Showcase Financial Acumen
As the position requires strong financial modelling and analytical skills, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial assessments and capital allocation strategies. You might even want to bring along a sample financial model you've worked on to illustrate your expertise.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration Skills
The Head of Corporate Development will need to influence various stakeholders. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, highlighting your collaborative approach and ability to build consensus among diverse groups.
