Strategy & M&A Director: Growth, Deals & Execution

Principal Financial Group; Des Moines (IA); Hybrid; USD 141,000 - 191,000; Full time

Job summary

Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, IA, is seeking a Corporate Strategy & Development Director to lead broad strategic initiatives and transactions across businesses and geographies. You will evaluate opportunities, develop actionable plans, and drive disciplined execution across the enterprise.

The role demands strong financial acumen, strategic judgment, and leadership in collaboration with senior leaders and external advisors, with a focus on growth, profitability, and competitive

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, business, actuarial science, or a related field.
• MBA, CFA, CPA, or another relevant advanced degree or professional designation is preferred.
• Significant experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or transaction advisory.
• Demonstrated M&A experience including valuation, due diligence, and negotiation.
• Strong financial acumen and ability to evaluate financial statements and capital structures.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex strategy and transaction initiatives across Principal’s businesses and geographies.
• Structure and lead projects with defined questions, approach, and decision points.
• Manage transactions through full lifecycle: assessment, valuation, due diligence, structuring, negotiation, closing, and transition planning.
• Identify and advance inorganic growth opportunities in partnership with leaders and external advisors.
• Lead cross-functional teams and drive initiatives to timely decisions and outcomes.
• Communicate complex financial and strategic matters clearly to senior executives and stakeholders.

Skills

Financial acumen

Strategic judgment

Leadership

Analytical capabilities

Ownership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication & negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in finance/accounting/economics/business/actuarial science

MBA, CFA, CPA or related advanced degree preferred

Job description

Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, IA, is seeking a Corporate Strategy & Development Director to lead broad strategic initiatives and transactions across businesses and geographies. You will evaluate opportunities, develop actionable plans, and drive disciplined execution across the enterprise.

The role demands strong financial acumen, strategic judgment, and leadership in collaboration with senior leaders and external advisors, with a focus on growth, profitability, and competitive