Director of Corporate Strategy

Job Title: Director of Corporate Strategy (6-Month Contract)Location: Paddington, London (Hybrid: 3 days in-office, flexible for the right candidate)Rate: £1,000 - £1,600 per day (Inside IR35)Duration: 6 months (with potential extension)

Company Overview:Our client, a leading player in the telecom industry, is looking for an experienced Director of Corporate Strategy to join their team on an interim basis. This role is a critical position for the business, shaping the overall corporate strategy and influencing the direction of the company at the executive level.

Role Overview:As the Director of Corporate Strategy, you will be responsible for leading the corporate strategy team and driving the overall strategic direction of the company. This is a high-impact, senior leadership role that requires an individual with a strong background in corporate strategy (not commercial or transformational) and experience in managing large, diverse teams. You will be expected to work closely with the executive board and key stakeholders, championing the company's long-term strategic goals and guiding a team of 16 strategists, business analysts, and graduates.

This role requires someone who can manage multiple priorities, build strong relationships with key stakeholders, and bring an innovative, forward-thinking approach to corporate strategy. A background in the telecom industry is preferred, but candidates with experience in other fast-paced, complex industries may also be considered.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and shape the overall corporate strategy for the business, influencing the executive team and driving long-term objectives.
• Manage a team of 16 professionals, including strategists, business analysts, and graduates, ensuring effective collaboration and career development.
• Develop and communicate strategic initiatives and recommendations to senior stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the company's goals.
• Provide clear leadership and guidance to the team, fostering a strong culture of performance, accountability, and growth.
• Champion the development and career progression of junior team members, particularly graduates, ensuring a pipeline of future talent.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure strategic initiatives are understood and implemented across the organisation.
• Drive strategic projects that shape the company's direction, balancing long-term objectives with practical, day-to-day decision-making.

Candidate Requirements:

• Proven experience in corporate strategy, ideally within the telecom industry.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ people (experience managing teams of 16 is a strong advantage).
• A track record of influencing senior executives and shaping corporate strategy in a large, complex organisation.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the business.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to senior stakeholders.
• Previous experience in managing and developing teams across all levels, including analysts and graduates.
• A background in corporate strategy, not commercial, transformation, or consulting strategies.
• A strategic, big-picture thinker who can manage both short-term tactical initiatives and long-term strategic objectives.
• Previous experience within a high-performance, fast-paced environment (telecom industry preferred).

Work Schedule & Location:

• Based in Paddington office, London, with a hybrid work schedule (3 days per week in the office, flexibility for the right candidate to work 2 days per week).
• Expected duration of 6 months with potential for extension based on the permanent hire process.