Strategic Development Manager

Tarmac Trading Limited; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in the UK is seeking a Strategic Development Manager to lead mergers, acquisitions, and divestments that support long-term growth ambitions. This high-impact role requires skills in financial analysis, relationship-building, and execution. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the company's strategic direction, working alongside senior leaders to drive value creation through complex deal-making. Join us to make a significant impact in this pivotal position.

Benefits

Bonus scheme

Enhanced holiday entitlement

Contributory pension scheme

Discounts on retailers, holidays etc.

Employee Assistance helpline

Access to Employee Communities

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in corporate development or M&A advisory.
• Demonstrated success in executing acquisitions.
• Proven ability to manage due diligence processes.

Responsibilities

• Identify M&A targets and support the leadership team.
• Conduct market research to assess strategic opportunities.
• Lead divestment strategies including market analysis.

Skills

Strong origination capabilities

Advanced influencing skills

Negotiation skills

Communication and presentation skills

Understanding of valuation methodologies

Education

Degree in Business or related field

Professional qualification (e.g., ACA, CFA, MBA)

Job description

Overview

Here at Tarmac we are looking for a Strategic Development Manager to lead the origination and pursuit of mergers, acquisitions, and divestments that support our long‑term growth ambitions. This is a high‑impact leadership role at the heart of our Strategy & Development team – combining commercial insight, relationship‑building, and disciplined execution to deliver high‑quality transactions. You’ll be the driving force behind early‑stage opportunity development, guiding due diligence, shaping pursuit strategies, and leading transactions through to completion. If you thrive in complex deal environments and enjoy influencing senior stakeholders, this role offers the perfect platform to make a meaningful strategic impact.

In this influential role, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of one of the UK’s most recognised brands. You’ll lead significant deals, work alongside senior leaders, and contribute directly to long‑term value creation. If you’re driven, commercially sharp, and passionate about strategic growth, this is an exceptional opportunity to make your mark.

Responsibilities

• Identify M&A targets and support the UK leadership team in driving the origination pipeline.
• Conduct in‑depth market research to assess trends, competitor moves, and strategic opportunities.
• Review and evaluate the performance and strategic fit of the existing portfolio.

Origination & Opportunity Evaluation

• Source and assess acquisitions and divestments, analysing financial performance, risks, synergies, and strategic alignment.
• Conduct technical and commercial assessments of assets, facilities, and operations.

Divestment Execution

• Lead divestment strategies end‑to‑end, including market analysis, buyer identification, negotiations, and closing.
• Work closely with finance, legal, and operational teams to ensure smooth transitions.

Financial Analysis & Modelling

• Partner with Finance to evaluate valuations and financial implications.
• Review financial models and scenario analyses to support robust decision‑making.

Deal Execution & Project Management

• Lead the full M&A cycle for small to mid‑sized deals – from identification, purchase agreement, and completion.
• Manage Development Associates to deliver accurate timelines, milestones, and progress reports.
• Coordinate multi‑stakeholder due diligence processes to identify and mitigate risks.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Prepare presentations, proposals, and valuation models for senior leadership and CRH approval.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with internal stakeholders, advisors, and target company leaders.

Integration Oversight

• Support integration planning and post‑acquisition reviews to ensure smooth transition and synergy tracking.

What You’ll Bring

• Strategic & commercially astute – with a deep understanding of market dynamics and value drivers.
• Influential & relationship‑led – able to build trust with senior leaders, advisors, and partners.
• Proactive & resilient – confident navigating ambiguity and maintaining momentum through complex deals.
• Decisive & adaptable – quick to respond to shifting priorities and emerging opportunities.
• A collaborative leader – guiding teams with clarity while working seamlessly across functions.

Professional Skills

• Strong origination capabilities and established networks in relevant markets.
• Advanced influencing and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to lead due diligence and manage complex transactions end‑to‑end.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for senior audiences.
• Solid understanding of valuation methodologies and deal structures.

Experience

• Experience in corporate development, transaction services, investment banking, private equity, or M&A advisory.
• Demonstrated success in originating and executing acquisitions and divestments.
• Strong track record managing due diligence and cross‑functional teams.
• Exposure to integration planning and post‑deal reviews.

Education

• Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or related field.
• Professional qualification such as ACA, CFA, or MBA is desirable.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development in strategic finance, deal execution, and leadership.

Benefits

• Bonus scheme
• Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Contributory pension scheme
• Access to the Tarmac Reward website with discounts on retailers, holidays, etc.
• Access to the Employee Assistance helpline for free and confidential advice
• Access to join our Employee Communities (employee networks) we currently have nine communities inc. (REACH) Religious, Ethnic, Cultural Heritage, LGBTQ+, Parents & carers, Ability, Wellbeing, Female voice and menopause
• Training and development opportunities

We’re proud to be part of CRH, and even prouder to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to support you.

Are you a strategic deal‑maker with the vision to shape the future of a market‑leading organisation?