Corporate Development Associate

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

WHO WE ARE

Forterra is on a mission to transform the future of mobility, delivering autonomous vehicle solutions that empower U.S. and allied defense forces to tackle the most demanding operational challenges. We bring together cutting-edge AI, sensor fusion, and autonomous driving technologies to develop robust, reliable, and secure platforms for our customers—enhancing their capabilities, reducing risk to personnel, and accelerating mission success. If you’re drawn to groundbreaking tech with real-world impact, Forterra is where you’ll want to be.

THE TEAM

Our Corporate Development team leads some of the most exciting work in the defense and autonomy sectors. From identifying strategic acquisitions in robotics and AI, to forging powerful alliances with top-tier companies, we serve as the driving force behind Forterra’s long-term growth and market positioning. We’re the ones looking around the corner, finding new ways to expand capabilities, enter new markets, and maximize value for the company and our partners.

THE ROLE

As a Corporate Development Associate, you’ll play a pivotal role in strategic market analysis, deal sourcing, negotiations, and integration of acquisitions and partnerships. You’ll dive deep into financial modeling, competitor landscapes, and evolving industry trends—ensuring Forterra is always making sound, data-driven decisions. Whether you’re building a valuation model for a next-gen sensor startup or finalizing a memo for the executive team on a new market opportunity, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping Forterra’s future.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Market Research & Strategy

• Scope new market segments—especially in autonomy, defense, and government contracting—to identify potential gaps Forterra can fill through acquisitions or partnerships.
• Monitor emerging technologies, AI breakthroughs, and key policy changes within the defense tech domain to inform leadership’s strategy.

M&A Pipeline & Execution

• Research, analyze, and prioritize potential targets, developing robust strategic theses and valuation models.
  Lead or support due diligence efforts, coordinate cross-functional reviews, and propose deal structures that align with Forterra’s financial and strategic goals.
• Work side by side with Legal, Finance, and external advisors to steer deal negotiations through closing.

Financial Modeling & Analysis

• Build detailed and dynamic valuation models, capturing various scenarios—from synergy opportunities to regulatory hurdles.
• Pull M&A comps, track public companies, and review historical deals to assess market benchmarks.
  Present insights to the executive team, leveraging both quantitative and qualitative arguments.

Partnerships & Alliances

• Identify and cultivate relationships with startups, mid-size defense tech firms, and large OEMs to create joint opportunities for Forterra.
• Negotiate win-win collaborations that leverage Forterra’s autonomy solutions while expanding our ecosystem of offerings.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering, product, o