Head Of Corporate Strategy

Summary

Join Upwork as the Head of Corporate Strategy and play a pivotal role in shaping the company's long-term strategic direction. Reporting to the VP of Strategy, Corporate Development, and Partnerships, you will partner with senior leadership to develop and execute initiatives that enhance Upwork's market position, drive growth, and increase shareholder value. This high-visibility role involves corporate strategy development, thought leadership, research and analysis, project management and execution, and team leadership. You will manage a team of strategy professionals, fostering a collaborative environment and driving high-quality outputs. The ideal candidate possesses 12+ years of experience in corporate strategy, management consulting, or a related field, along with exceptional analytical and strategic thinking skills. Upwork offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical insurance, unlimited paid time off, a 401(k) plan, parental leave, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

Requirements

• 12+ years of experience in corporate strategy, management consulting, investment banking or a related field
• A proven track record of strategic development in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, preferably in technology, marketplaces, or Human Capital Management
• Exceptional analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience building and mentoring high-performing teams
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization
• Organized, structured, and highly proactive with a strong sense of ownership and accountability

Responsibilities

• Drive the development of Upwork’s corporate strategy, focusing on 3–5 year horizons, annual planning, and addressing key business challenges
• Partner with senior leaders across business units to identify and align on strategic priorities that drive growth and enhance market competitiveness
• Support strategic planning by conducting scenario analyses and recommending actionable initiatives
• Provide actionable insights and recommendations to senior leadership on emerging trends, technologies, and opportunities that align with Upwork’s goals
• Act as a strategic advisor to leaders across the organization, offering guidance on critical decisions and initiatives
• Contribute to a culture of innovation by identifying and advocating for new business opportunities and go-to-market strategies
• Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative analyses to address key strategic questions, uncover insights, and inform decision-making
• Lead efforts to analyze market dynamics, competitive positioning, and emerging opportunities to ensure Upwork remains a market leader
• Own addressable market (TAM) analyses, identifying growth potential and strategic areas for investment
• Manage cross-functional initiatives that align corporate strategy with operational execution and financial planning
• Work closely with FP&A, Analytics, and Business Units to integrate strategy into long-term planning and ensure alignment with company goals
• Prepare materials for key stakeholders, including quarterly board presentations, to communicate progress and insights
• Manage and mentor a team of strategy professionals, fostering a collaborative environment that drives high-quality outputs and professional growth
• Encourage cross-functional collaboration to ensure strategic initiatives are well-informed and executable
• Act as a role model for Upwork’s values, promoting a results-driven, innovative, and inclusive culture

Preferred Qualifications

MBA or quantitative degree from a top school

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage for both you and your family
• Unlimited paid time off
• A 401(k) plan with matching contributions
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• An Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Annual bonus plan or sales incentive plan
• Eligibility to participate in our long term equity incentive program