Director, Corporate Development

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a highly motivated Director to join our Corporate Development team. The Director will lead and support mergers and acquisitions, strategic investments, integration management, and corporate development operations. This role offers hands-on exposure to transaction evaluation and execution, post-transaction integration, and strategic decision-making within a mission-focused defense technology organization.

What You'll Do

• Lead and support the evaluation and execution of mergers, acquisitions, minority investments, and strategic partnerships, from initial screening through closing
• Serve as a day-to-day deal lead on active transactions, managing timelines, workplans, and deliverables across multiple workstreams
• Build, review, and refine detailed financial models and valuation analyses
• Develop and own transaction materials, including investment memoranda, valuation summaries, Board materials, and executive presentations
• Coordinate and manage internal and external diligence processes
• Synthesize diligence findings into clear investment theses, risk assessments, and actionable recommendations for senior leadership
• Lead and support post-transaction integration planning and execution in partnership with functional leaders
• Maintain and manage the corporate development pipeline
• Act as a primary point of contact for cross-functional stakeholders during transaction and integration processes
• Support senior leadership in external interactions with advisors, counterparties, and strategic partners

Requirements

• 5-7 years of experience in investment banking, corporate development, transaction advisory, private equity, or a similar analytical role
• End-to-end understanding of the M&A lifecycle
• Working knowledge of valuation methodologies and how they apply to defense assets
• Understanding of purchase agreement economics
• Familiarity with transaction financing concepts
• Working knowledge of integration planning and value-creation levers post-close
• Ability to evaluate transactions in the context of corporate strategy and portfolio fit
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field

Preferred

• Direct experience supporting M&A, integration, or strategic investments in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology companies
• Active-duty military experience
• Master of Business Administration degree
• Familiarity with defense procurement, FAR/DFARS, and contract types
• Awareness of ITAR, export controls, and national security considerations affecting transactions
• Exposure to UAV/UAS platforms, autonomy software, sensors, or mission systems

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

Compensation

Base salary for this role is $175,000-$225,000 per year, based on experience, plus performance based bonuses up to 30% of yearly salary.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.