Corporate Development Director – Saudi Arabia

About the role

The Corporate Development Director will drive GEMS School Management’s strategic expansion across Saudi Arabia, shaping the company’s footprint in the K‑12 education market. Reporting to senior leadership, the role will identify, evaluate and execute growth initiatives through M&A, school‑management contracts, public‑private partnerships and greenfield projects.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive growth strategy for the Saudi market.
• Source, screen and assess acquisition targets and private K‑12 schools against strategic and financial criteria.
• Lead all phases of M&A execution, including financial modelling, valuation, due diligence, structuring, negotiation and post‑integration.
• Build a pipeline of third‑party school owners for management‑outsourcing agreements and negotiate contract terms.
• Identify high‑demand catchment areas for new schools and negotiate Propco/Opco arrangements with real‑estate partners.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders to oversee project milestones from site selection to school opening.

Required profile

• Extensive network and deep market knowledge of the Saudi education sector.
• Proven track record in business development, M&A or strategic partnerships within K‑12 or related industries.
• Strong commercial instincts and ability to identify opportunities before they become public tenders.
• Credibility to engage both government entities and private investors.

Required skills

• Financial modelling
• Valuation analysis
• Due diligence (academic, regulatory, financial, operational)
• Negotiation and deal structuring