Strategy & Corporate Development Manager

Job Title 

Job Description

For more than 80 years, Kaplan has been a trailblazer in education and professional advancement. We are a global company at the intersection of education and technology, focused on collaboration, innovation, and creativity to deliver a best-in-class educational experience and make Kaplan a great place to work.

The future of education is here and we are eager to work alongside those who want to make a positive impact and inspire change in the world around them.

Kaplan North America is seeking an analytical, collaborative and growth-oriented professional to join our Corporate Development & Strategy team as a Manager, Strategy & Corporate Development. This position offers unique exposure to senior leadership, significant strategic initiatives, and hands-on M&A execution. Reporting directly to the VP, Strategy & Corporate Development, you will play a pivotal role in identifying, analyzing, and executing investments and acquisitions that drive Kaplan’s sustainable growth—while also contributing to the development of the company’s long-term strategic roadmap. 

Primary/Key Responsibilities 

M&A Execution & Deal Support  

• Identify, screen, and prioritize potential acquisition or investment opportunities that align with Kaplan’s strategic objectives. 
• Develop and maintain complex financial models (e.g., valuations, scenario analyses) to assess prospective deals. 
• Support due diligence efforts across cross-functional teams (Finance, Legal, Product, etc.) to ensure timely and thorough evaluations. 
• Contribute to integration planning and post-deal follow-through, ensuring smooth transitions and synergy realization. 

Strategic Planning & Analysis  

• Work closely with the VP and senior leaders to shape Kaplan’s 3-year strategic roadmap, identifying emerging trends, technologies, and potential growth avenues in the education and ed tech sectors. 
• Lead in-depth market research and competitive analysis to inform high-level strategic decision-making. 
• Partner with cross-functional teams to solve complex business challenges through data-driven solutions that align with organizational goals. 
• Serve as a trusted advisor and thought partner to leaders, providing well-researched perspectives on potential risks, synergies, and strategic fit. 

Operational Effectiveness  

• Prepare clear, compelling presentations and reports to communicate strategic recommendations and deal progress to senior stakeholders. 
• Champion the use of AI and other analytical tools within the Strategy team to enhance research, forecasting, and decision-making processes. 
• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and improve operational efficiency in deal sourcing and strategic projects. 

Education & Experience

Location

Additional Locations 

Employee Type

Job Functional Area 

Business Unit

At Kaplan, we recognize the importance of attracting and retaining top talent to drive our success in a competitive market. Our salary structure and compensation philosophy reflect the value we place on the experience, education, and skills that our employees bring to the organization, taking into consideration labor market trends and total rewards.  All positions with Kaplan are paid at least $15 per hour or $31,200 per year for full-time positions. Additionally, certain positions are bonus or commission-eligible.   And we have a comprehensive benefits package, learn more about our benefits here.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement:

Kaplan is committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace that values diversity, promotes equity, and integrates inclusivity into all aspects of our operations. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, nationality, or sex. We believe that diversity strengthens our organization, fuels innovation, and improves our ability to serve our students, customers, and communities. Learn more about our culture here.

Kaplan considers qualified applicants for employment even if applicants have an arrest or conviction in their background check records. Kaplan complies with related background check regulations, including but not limited to, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.  There are various positions where certain convictions may disqualify applicants, such as those positions requiring interaction with minors, financial records, or other sensitive and/or confidential information.