Beyond the Cloud: Shaping Growth for a Data-Driven Future

Client Overview

Our client is a Fortune 500 hybrid cloud data services and data management company headquartered in the Bay Area. With over 10,000 employees and nearly $6 billion in revenue, the company provides hardware and cloud data storage solutions alongside software products that assist in recovery, backup, and delivery. They are a leading data infrastructure company offering unified data storage, integrated data services, and cloud operations (CloudOps) solutions for enterprise customers worldwide.

The Challenge / Mandate

Our client sought a Director of Corporate Strategy to join a high-impact internal strategy team that works closely with the C-suite on critical initiatives. This role is highly visible and collaborates closely with the M&A team and cross-functional leadership.

The Director would lead multiple corporate strategy programs focused on long-range growth, operational improvement, and market intelligence. This role required a unique combination of structured problem-solving, the ability to manage ambiguity, and the interpersonal skills to influence stakeholders across the enterprise.

Key responsibilities included:

• Leading strategic projects such as annual planning, portfolio management, and KPI development
• Driving operational improvements and market research initiatives
• Structuring complex, cross-functional projects with multiple senior stakeholders
• Coaching and mentoring junior team members while building the team’s brand internally
• Delivering compelling recommendations directly to the executive team

The right candidate needed a strong consulting background, significant experience in the technology sector, and leadership capabilities to manage projects independently.

Search Strategy

Our search targeted candidates with senior strategy consulting experience combined with hands-on operational experience in technology companies. Ideal candidates were current or former Engagement Managers or Senior Managers from top-tier consulting firms with experience leading complex corporate strategy initiatives.

Key qualifications included:

• A proven track record in helping companies define and execute strategic priorities
• Experience in Software, Cloud, or Infrastructure technologies preferred
• Ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams and executives
• Strong data-driven problem-solving combined with big-picture thinking
• Excellent communication and executive presence
• Typically 4+ years in consulting with additional industry or strategy leadership experience
• An MBA from a top-tier program was preferred but not required

The Placement

The selected finalist was a former McKinsey Senior Engagement Manager with a Wharton MBA and significant industry experience at Meta. Her career includes serving as the Head of Product Strategy at a major international technology company, where she was responsible for driving global product growth and supporting the launch of new initiatives. Prior to that, she was a Senior Engagement Manager at McKinsey, where she advised clients on digital transformation, product strategy, and growth. Her unique blend of strategic consulting expertise and operational leadership in the technology space made her an ideal fit for this high-impact role.

The Outcome

The placed Director quickly became a core member of the corporate strategy team, working closely with senior leadership. She leads the annual and quarterly strategic planning process for the cloud business, ensuring alignment with long-term corporate objectives. Additionally, she is responsible for market intelligence, delivering regular competitive analysis and insights to inform strategy. Her leadership extends to top-priority initiatives such as evaluating new market entry opportunities and crafting differentiation strategies, helping to drive the company’s growth and operational excellence in the hybrid cloud and data services sector.