Description About Us:  VAST Data is revolutionizing the AI data infrastructure landscape by enabling organizations to unlock radical intelligence and utility through innovative, simple, and transparent solutions. We’re on a mission to build the only data platform that can match the ambition of AI-era companies, and we need exceptional talent to achieve our vision. Summary:  We are seeking a proactive and strategic Director of Corporate Development & Special Projects to build and lead a new Corporate Development function at VAST. You will be responsible for driving VAST’s strategic growth through investments, M&A and special projects. This role serves as a key partner to the executive team in identifying and executing opportunities that expand our platform and market leadership. The ideal candidate brings a builder’s mindset, exceptional business judgment, and a proven track record in strategic deal execution within the high-growth tech ecosystem. Key Responsibilities:  • Build and scale VAST’s Corporate Development function from the ground up, establishing processes for deal sourcing and execution • Proactively source, evaluate, and execute strategic investments and M&A opportunities that align with VAST’s long-term vision • Conduct deep market research and competitive analysis to inform corporate strategy and analyze opportunities, including developing and maintaining a deep understanding of relevant products, technologies and markets • Manage the end-to-end deal process, including diligence, financial modeling, negotiation, and integration planning • Maintain and expand strong relationships with the broader tech ecosystem, including VCs, investment bankers, and potential targets • Lead and conduct Special Projects, based on the strategic priorities of VAST. These will be defined on an ongoing basis and will typically be projects that are strategic, cross-functional, complex and / or competitively sensitive • Conduct and maintain financial benchmarking (key metrics, performance and practices vs peers / industry) on an ongoing basis to inform strategy, planning and positioning • Support Investor Relations activities including narrative crafting, materials development, ongoing investor communications, conference prep and any raise activities • Develop and maintain close working relationships across the company Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in quantitative field. MBA preferred though not required • 8+ years of experience in Corporate Development, Investment Banking, or VC/PE, with a significant focus on tech M&A and strategic growth • Exceptional modeling skills, and experience with complex businesses in high growth, highly dynamic markets. Adept with relevant tools including AI tools, Excel and Google Workspace. Tableau, SFDC and NetSuite familiarity a plus • Outstanding communications skills, with experience preparing, presenting and communicating with executives, investors and sophisticated business audiences. Strong ‘storytelling with data’ skills are key • Highly driven with a strong ownership mentality and deep intellectual curiosity. Pragmatic and willing to ‘roll up sleeves’