Head of Corporate Development

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, SGC, WATA, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,900 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Toronto, Guadalajara, Dallas, and Paris.

The Head of Corporate Development will be responsible for leading Collectors M&A, strategic partnership, and investment activities. This leader will collaborate closely with the CEO, executive leadership team, and board of directors to define and execute growth strategies that advance the company’s long-term vision. 

The ideal candidate will bring progressive experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, or management consulting, with a proven record of driving complex, high-value transactions from origination through integration. This leader must combine rigorous strategic and financial acumen with strong relationship management skills and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

This role can be based in either our Santa Ana, California or Jersey City, New Jersey office. Remote or hybrid candidates will also be considered. We believe that there is significant value in in-person collaboration. If you live within a 1 hour commuting distance to one of our offices, you will be required to be onsite most of the time. This will be discussed further as part of the recruiting process. 

What You’ll Do:

• Develop and execute Collectors’ corporate development strategy, aligned with long-term business goals.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive team and board, providing insight into market trends, competitive dynamics, and potential opportunities.

• Shape investment theses and strategic priorities, translating high-level ideas into actionable plans.

• Lead end-to-end M&A and partnership processes: sourcing, evaluation, due diligence, structuring, negotiation, closing, and integration.

• Build and maintain a robust pipeline of potential acquisitions and partnerships, leveraging industry relationships and proactive outreach.

• Partner with internal business unit leaders to identify and evaluate strategic initiatives, from new product lines to market expansions.

• Act as the primary liaison with external advisors, bankers, investors, and counterparties.

• Prepare and deliver compelling materials for the board of directors and executive team, ensuring alignment and buy-in on major initiatives.

• Oversee financial modeling, valuation, and scenario analysis to assess opportunities and risks.

• Partner with cross-functional leaders (Business Leaders, Finance, Legal, Product, Operations, People) to ensure seamless execution and integration of transactions.

• Build, manage and mentor a team of corporate development professionals, fostering career growth, deal execution skills, and strategic thinking.

• Set clear goals, delegate effectively, and build accountability within the team.

• Cultivate a collaborative, high-performance environment that balances strategic vision with disciplined execution.

• Provide coaching and guidance on financial modeling, negotiation tactics, and communication with senior stakeholders.

• Engage in frequent travel (approximately 30–40%) in support of strategic initiatives.

Who You Are:

• Bachelor’s degree required with 10–15 years of progressive experience in corporate development, investment banking, private equity, management consulting, or a related strategic role, with significant leadership responsibilities. Experience in sports/media/entertainment and understanding of the collectibles market is a plus.

• Proven track record of leading complex M&A transactions and negotiating high-value deals at the executive and board level.

• Experienced people leader with a history of managing, developing, and scaling high-performing teams.

• Exceptional strategic thinker who can translate broad concepts into structured, executable initiatives.

• Strong executive presence with excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of influencing at all levels.

• Adept at building consensus across diverse stakeholders, internally and externally.

• Highly analytical with advanced skills in valuation, modeling, and financial analysis.

The salary range for this position is $179,000-$300,000. Actual compensation on this range varies based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, experience, and skill set. This role may be eligible for bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation, please ask your recruiter for details.

Reasons To Join Us:

• Health Insurance: All full-time employees are eligible to enroll in Medical, Dental, and Vision

• Additional Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for fertility, commuter, and educational assistance benefits

• 401(K) Matching Plan: We are proud to offer a competitive 401k matching plan to our employees to support their future financial goals

• Vacation: All salaried employees are eligible for flexible time-off

• Holiday Pay: All regular, full-time employees are eligible for ten company paid holidays

• Employee Discounts: Employees receive discounts on select grading services for approved submissions

• Flexible Hours: Many of our teams offer flexible schedules with varying shifts and will work with you to accommodate your needs

• Fun Working Environment: Our team members are invited to participate in celebrations, holiday events, and team building activities

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. 

Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to [email protected].

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email [email protected].

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see our Privacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents here.