Strategy and Business Development Manager (M&A) in London

At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.

Introduction

You’ll step into a high-impact role at the centre of AQA’s future growth. As Strategy and Business Development Manager (M&A), you’ll help shape how AQA expands into new markets, products and partnerships through mergers, acquisitions and strategic deals. This is a hands-on, senior role where you’ll take the lead on real opportunities, working alongside senior leaders and external advisers to assess, shape and deliver complex transactions. If you’re someone who can bring immediate expertise, thrive in fast-moving environments and enjoys working on high-profile, commercially critical work, this is a unique opportunity to make a visible impact.

Purpose of the role

In this role, you’ll support AQA’s corporate development activity by identifying, evaluating and progressing new growth opportunities. You’ll lead workstreams across mergers, acquisitions and partnerships, building evidence, shaping investment cases and supporting decision-making at Executive and Board level. You’ll work across a range of opportunities, partnering with senior stakeholders across the organisation and with external advisers to ensure robust analysis, clear recommendations and effective delivery. Your work will play a central role in AQA’s diversification strategy and future direction.

Key responsibilities

• Driving M&A and partnership workstreams through due diligence, financial analysis and decision points, working with Finance, Legal and external advisers.
• Developing high-quality business cases, papers and presentations to support Executive and Trustee decision-making.
• Supporting Executives in identification and assessment of acquisition and partnership opportunities, including strategic fit, market attractiveness and commercial potential.

What we are looking for

You’ll succeed in this role if you:

• Have strong experience in M&A, corporate development, transaction advisory or strategy, with the ability to step in and deliver from day one.
• Bring deep understanding of the end-to-end M&A process, including due diligence, negotiation support and working with advisers.
• Can build clear, evidence-based investment cases and translate complex analysis into compelling recommendations.
• Are confident working with senior stakeholders, influencing decisions and preparing materials for Executive and Board audiences.

What’s in it for you

This is a role that offers real exposure, pace and impact. You’ll benefit from:

• The opportunity to work on live M&A and strategic opportunities that shape AQA’s future direction.
• A 35‑hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
• Exposure to high‑profile, business‑critical programmes.
• 25 days’ annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days.
• Excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).

Diversity and Inclusion statement

“At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.”

Application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a short supporting statement. Closing date for applications is Sunday 7th June.

Recruitment Agencies

We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place. Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.