Senior Corporate Development Lead, AI

Location: Hybrid in San Francisco, California, USA

Salary: $213,000–$284,000 USD per year, plus equity and potential variable compensation.

Company

Datadog provides software and developer tools while expanding its AI product strategy through acquisitions, investments, and startup partnerships.

What you will do

• Support AI product strategy by analyzing emerging technologies, market opportunities, and competitive dynamics.
• Source promising AI startups for acquisitions, investments, and partnerships while building relationships across founder and VC networks.
• Lead workstreams involving due diligence, valuation, financial modeling, strategic assessment, and internal recommendations.
• Partner with Product and Engineering leaders to evaluate build, buy, and partner opportunities for the AI roadmap.
• Support negotiations, including term sheets and partnership structures.
• Collaborate on post-deal integration planning and attract early-stage AI companies to the startup program.

Requirements

• Technical knowledge gained through software engineering, product management, venture capital, a Computer Science degree, or equivalent experience.
• Some experience with financial modeling, forecasting, or analysis, with willingness to continue learning.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships across founders, VCs, and the broader AI ecosystem.
• Self-starter able to work in fast-paced, ambiguous, and technically demanding environments.
• Strong prioritization, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Interest in developing negotiation capabilities across complex strategic initiatives.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid workplace emphasizing office collaboration and work-life harmony.
• Structured onboarding, mentoring, buddy support, and internal networking opportunities.
• New-hire RSUs, ESPP, and discounted employee stock purchase plan.
• Professional development, product training, and career pathing.
• Healthcare, dental, parental planning, mental health benefits, 401(k) with match, paid time off, and fitness reimbursements.
• Inclusive culture with Community Guilds and Inclusion Talks.