Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Vice President Corporate Development image - Rise Careers
Job details

Vice President Corporate Development

Company Description

At Western Digital, our vision is to power global innovation and push the boundaries of technology to make what you thought was once impossible, possible.

At our core, Western Digital is a company of problem solvers. People achieve extraordinary things given the right technology. For decades, we’ve been doing just that—our technology helped people put a man on the moon and capture the first-ever picture of a black hole.

We offer an expansive portfolio of technologies, HDDs, and platforms for business, creative professionals, and consumers alike under our Western Digital®, WD®, WD_BLACK™, and SanDisk® Professional brands.

We are a key partner to some of the largest and highest-growth organizations in the world. From enabling systems to make cities safer and more connected, to powering the data centers behind many of the world’s biggest companies and hyperscale cloud providers, to meeting the massive and ever-growing data storage needs of the AI era, Western Digital is fueling a brighter, smarter future.

Job Description

The VP of Corporate Development will drive M&A, Integration and Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) strategy, leading acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, and strategic investments. This role will manage the end-to-end M&A process and oversee venture investments in emerging technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

Corporate development

  • Develop and execute M&A strategy aligned with corporate goals.
  • Lead target identification, due diligence, deal structuring, and integration.
  • Optimize portfolio through acquisitions, divestitures, and partnerships.

Corporate Venture Capital (CVC)

  • Define and manage corporate venture investment strategy.
  • Source and invest in high-potential startups.
  • Support portfolio companies and maximize strategic returns.
  • Build relationships with VCs, accelerators, and industry partners.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree required; MBA/MS preferred.
  • 15+ years in M&A, investment banking, private equity. Technology industry experience required.
  • Proven M&A execution.
  • Expertise in valuation, financial modeling, and due diligence.
  • Strong negotiation, integration, and stakeholder management skills.

Key Skills:

  • M&A strategy & execution
  • Corporate venture capital
  • Financial modeling & valuation
  • Deal structuring & negotiation
  • Due diligence & integration

Additional Information

Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s assigned sex at birth), age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status (including domestic partnership status), physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, protected medical and family care leave, Civil Air Patrol status, military and veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We also prohibit harassment of any individual on any of the characteristics listed above. Our non-discrimination policy applies to all aspects of employment. We comply with the laws and regulations set forth in the "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal” poster. Our pay transparency policy is available here.

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at [email protected] to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

Based on our experience, we anticipate that the application deadline will be 03/28/2025 (3 months from posting), although we reserve the right to close the application process sooner if we hire an applicant for this position before the application deadline. If we are not able to hire someone from this role before the application deadline, we will update this posting with a new anticipated application deadline.

#LI-JS1

Compensation & Benefits Details

  • An employee’s pay position within the salary range may be based on several factors including but not limited to (1) relevant education; qualifications; certifications; and experience; (2) skills, ability, knowledge of the job; (3) performance, contribution and results; (4) geographic location; (5) shift; (6) internal and external equity; and (7) business and organizational needs.
  • The salary range is what we believe to be the range of possible compensation for this role at the time of this posting.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and this range is only applicable for jobs to be performed in California, Colorado, New York or remote jobs that can be performed in California, Colorado and New York.  This range may be modified in the future.
  • You will be eligible to participate in Western Digital’s Short-Term Incentive (STI) Plan, which provides incentive awards based on Company and individual performance.  Depending on your role and your performance, you may be eligible to participate in our annual Long-Term Incentive (LTI) program, which consists of restricted stock units (RSUs) or cash equivalents, pursuant to the terms of the LTI plan. Please note that not all roles are eligible to participate in the LTI program, and not all roles are eligible for equity under the LTI plan. RSU awards are also available to eligible new hires, subject to Western Digital’s Standard Terms and Conditions for Restricted Stock Unit Awards.
  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid vacation time; paid sick leave; medical/dental/vision insurance; life, accident and disability insurance; tax-advantaged flexible spending and health savings accounts; employee assistance program; other voluntary benefit programs such as supplemental life and AD&D, legal plan, pet insurance, critical illness, accident and hospital indemnity; tuition reimbursement; transit; the Applause Program, employee stock purchase plan, and the Western Digital Savings 401(k) Plan.
  • Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company’s sole discretion, consistent with the law.
Western Digital Glassdoor Company Review
3.6 Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon
Western Digital DE&I Review
No rating Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon
CEO of Western Digital
Western Digital CEO photo
David Goeckeler
Approve of CEO

Average salary estimate

$200000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$150000K
$250000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Vice President Corporate Development, Western Digital

If you're looking to make a significant impact within a cutting-edge tech environment, look no further than the Vice President of Corporate Development position at Western Digital in San Jose, CA. In this pivotal role, you’ll spearhead mergers and acquisitions (M&A), integrating innovative startups and technology into our ambitious corporate strategy. Working closely with emerging technology sectors, you’ll drive investments and collaborations that empower us to maintain our reputation as one of the industry's leading problem solvers. You'll be responsible for developing and executing M&A strategies while engaging in due diligence and negotiating deals that align perfectly with our corporate goals. Your expertise will also shine as you oversee our Corporate Venture Capital initiatives, championing investments in high-potential startups that directly support our vision of a smarter future. Your experience in technology, finance, and negotiation will be key in optimizing our portfolio through calculated acquisitions and partnerships. Join a team that has powered groundbreaking advancements—from aiding in space exploration to setting the stage for the AI era's data demands—while fostering an inclusive workplace that thrives on diverse perspectives. Catch the opportunity to treat challenges as stepping stones and contribute to shaping the world through data technology at Western Digital!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Vice President Corporate Development Role at Western Digital
What responsibilities does the Vice President Corporate Development at Western Digital have?

The Vice President Corporate Development at Western Digital is tasked with a variety of strategic responsibilities, primarily focusing on driving mergers and acquisitions (M&A), spearheading corporate development initiatives, and managing the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) strategy. This includes identifying and evaluating potential acquisition targets, conducting thorough due diligence, structuring deals, and integrating new companies into the Western Digital ecosystem to optimize both growth and innovation.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are necessary for the Vice President Corporate Development position at Western Digital?

To qualify for the Vice President Corporate Development role at Western Digital, candidates should hold a bachelor's degree with an MBA or MS preferred, along with over 15 years of relevant experience in M&A, private equity, or investment banking, particularly within the technology sector. Expertise in financial modeling, due diligence, and negotiation is paramount to successfully navigate the complexities of corporate development.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What key skills are essential for the Vice President Corporate Development at Western Digital?

Essential skills for the Vice President Corporate Development position at Western Digital include a robust understanding of M&A strategy and execution, corporate venture capital, and financial modeling and valuation. Strong negotiation skills, stakeholder management, and the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable strategies are also critical for success in this role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Vice President Corporate Development at Western Digital support portfolio companies?

In the role of Vice President Corporate Development, you will actively support portfolio companies by maximizing strategic returns and fostering valuable relationships throughout the venture ecosystem. This includes working closely with startup partners, venture capitalists, and accelerators to ensure that investments align with corporate goals and drive innovation within the larger Western Digital framework.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the corporate culture like at Western Digital for the Vice President Corporate Development?

The corporate culture at Western Digital emphasizes inclusion, diversity, and problem-solving. As a Vice President Corporate Development, you will be part of a team that embraces varied perspectives and encourages a sense of belonging, allowing each individual to contribute meaningfully to the company’s innovative technologies and groundbreaking work. It’s an environment where you can thrive and leverage your expertise to make a real impact.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Vice President Corporate Development
Can you describe your experience with mergers and acquisitions in the technology sector?

When answering this question, focus on specific projects or examples where you successfully led M&A efforts in technology, discussing your role in identifying targets, conducting due diligence, and overseeing integration. Be prepared to share outcomes and lessons learned that showcase your expertise.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you employ to evaluate potential acquisition targets?

Describe a systematic approach that includes market research, financial analysis, and alignment with corporate strategy. Highlight how you assess cultural fit and potential synergies with existing operations, demonstrating your holistic view in the M&A process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you manage stakeholder relationships during the acquisition process?

Discuss the importance of clear communication and transparency. Share methods you use to engage stakeholders—whether they are executives, team members, or partners—illustrating your negotiation skills and ability to maintain trust throughout the process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does corporate venture capital play in your corporate development strategy?

Articulate your understanding of how corporate venture capital acts as a strategic tool to fuel innovation and growth. Provide examples of how you've sourced high-potential startups and maintained relationships to maximize returns while enhancing the company's ecosystem.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you give an example of a challenging negotiation you've successfully navigated?

Detail a specific instance, emphasizing your negotiation strategy, the challenges faced, and the outcome. Reflect on your approach, whether collaborative or competitive, and what you learned about effectively balancing interests in such situations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach financial modeling and valuation in M&A?

Describe your methodology for constructing financial models that incorporate various valuation techniques—such as DCF analysis or comparable company analysis—and how these models inform decision-making in the M&A process. Highlight practical examples to reinforce your credibility.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What techniques do you use for effective due diligence?

Discuss how you execute due diligence through a thorough analysis of financials, operational efficiencies, and legal considerations. Share a process that ensures comprehensive evaluation, aiming to mitigate risks while uncovering value in potential acquisitions.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure successful integration post-acquisition?

Talk about your experience with post-acquisition integration plans, detailing how you set clear objectives, foster collaboration, and measure success. Emphasize the importance of cultivating a shared vision between both entities to maximize synergies.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your strategy for staying updated with market trends and innovation in the tech industry?

Explain how you utilize various channels such as industry publications, networking events, and partnerships with startups to stay informed. Share how this knowledge influences both your strategic decisions and corporate development initiatives.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you promote a culture of innovation within your team?

Highlight initiatives that encourage creative thinking, cross-collaboration, and recognition of contributions. Ensure you convey the importance of an inclusive environment where diverse ideas are valued and nurtured.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Western Digital Hybrid 5601 Great Oaks Parkway, San Jose, CA
Posted 2 days ago

As a Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Western Digital, you will shape and lead communications strategies that enhance the company's reputation in the tech landscape.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 3 days ago

Join Western Digital as a Technologist in System Test to drive product validation and ensure quality in cutting-edge storage solutions.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 4 days ago

Visa is seeking a strategic leader to shape the North America leadership team's agenda and strategic direction.

Photo of the Rise User
National Vision Hybrid 2435 Commerce Ave NW building 2200, Duluth, GA 30096, USA
Posted 12 days ago

Become a pivotal part of National Vision as the Senior Manager, Corporate Strategy, shaping our long-term strategic direction.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 9 days ago
Mission Driven
Social Impact Driven
Passion for Exploration
Reward & Recognition

Join SpaceX as a Technical Strategy Associate to shape the future of global internet access via our Starlink program.

Photo of the Rise User

Join a leading nonprofit as a Senior Strategy Officer to drive impactful strategies for women's health innovations in global health.

Photo of the Rise User
RELX Hybrid Horsham, PA
Posted 10 days ago

Lead strategic initiatives at LexisNexis Reed Tech as the Director, Strategy, shaping organizational growth and innovation.

Photo of the Rise User

Join Visa as a Business Strategy and Operations Analyst to drive effective portfolio management and strategic decision-making within the Global Product team.

Photo of the Rise User
Sierra Club Remote No location specified
Posted 7 days ago

Join the Sierra Club as an Advancement Specialist to enhance donor engagement and support major gift fundraising efforts.

Photo of the Rise User
Inclusive & Diverse
Rise from Within
Mission Driven
Diversity of Opinions
Family Medical Leave
Maternity Leave
Paternity Leave
Lactation Facilities
Family Coverage (Insurance)
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Mental Health Resources
Life insurance
Disability Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
401K Matching
Paid Time-Off
Paid Volunteer Time

A unique leadership opportunity at Veeva Systems that combines industry experience with innovative thought leadership in the life sciences sector.

At Western Digital, we believe in the promise of data and we’re redefining how the world keeps and leverages it. We power the technology and develop the solutions that transform the possibilities of data into reality. At every step, we innovate wi...

457 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 27, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
C
Someone from OH, Middletown just viewed Operations Analyst at Core Specialty Insurance
A
Someone from OH, Strongsville just viewed Graphic Design Intern at Anvil NorthWest
W
Someone from OH, Uhrichsville just viewed Director Operations at WVUMedicine
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Game Director, Scripps Sports at The E.W. Scripps Company
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lorain just viewed 3D Modeler / Graphic Designer - Freelance at Twine
o
Someone from OH, Oxford just viewed Digital Media & Marketing Student Intern at osu
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Beachwood just viewed Dispensary Tech at Ayr Wellness
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Springfield just viewed Front Desk Clerk at Marriott International
L
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed Junior Graphic Designer at Little Spoon
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Licensing and Regulatory Compliance Analyst at Sportradar
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mansfield just viewed US_EN_Operations_Warehouse Loader (Part Time) at Red Bull
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dublin just viewed Salesforce Administrator at Multiverse
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Pickerington just viewed Salesforce Solution Analyst at GoodLeap
S
Someone from OH, Pickerington just viewed Salesforce Project Manager at Studio Science
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dayton just viewed Medical Receptionist at LifeStance Health
C
Someone from OH, Massillon just viewed RN Ambulatory - Outpatient Infusion Therapy at CCF
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed HR Business Partner (Maternity Cover) at Marshmallow
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Community Outreach Canvasser $24/Hr at Confidential
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Email Marketing Coordinator at Creative Circle
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed UX Researcher, Amazon Autos at Amazon
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed AI training and enablement at Writer