Senior Corporate Development Lead, AI

The shape of it

In the posting’s own words

You will be part of a small, high-visibility team that reports directly to Datadog’s Founder/CEO. The ideal candidate is passionate about AI and developer tools, comfortable rolling up their sleeves, and excited to operate in a fluid, technically demanding environment. You will support evaluations, source promising AI startups, collaborate closely with internal product and engineering leaders, and help position Datadog as the preferred partner for the next generation of founders.

What it asks for · 6

• Demonstrated technical knowledge through past experience (software engineering, product management, VC, etc.) or a degree in Computer Science (or equivalent).
• Some experience with financial modeling, forecasting, or analysis (willingness to learn; we can teach you).
• Excited about building and maintaining a strong network across founders, VCs, and the broader AI ecosystem.
• Self-starter who thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous, and technically challenging environments.
• Excellent prioritization and ability to operate across multiple complex stakeholders and projects.
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for developing negotiation capabilities.

What the job covers

• Support Datadog’s AI product strategy by analyzing emerging technologies, market opportunities, and competitive dynamics.
• Source high-potential AI startups for acquisition, investment, or partnership, and build a strong presence across the founder and VC ecosystem.
• Attend meetups, conferences, and ecosystem events to expand Datadog’s visibility and pipeline opportunities.
• Drive workstreams across diligence, valuation, financial modeling, strategic assessment, and internal recommendations.
• Partner with Product and Engineering leaders to evaluate build/buy/partner opportunities aligned with Datadog’s AI roadmap.
• Support negotiation processes, including term sheets and partnership structures.
• Collaborate on integration planning with cross-functional partners after acquisitions or strategic deals.
• Help attract early-stage AI companies into Datadog’s startup program.

Degree language

• Demonstrated technical knowledge through past experience (software engineering, product management, VC, etc.) or a degree in Computer Science (or equivalent).

Tools and skills named

Words the posting leans on

• product8×
• ecosystem7×
• founder6×
• startup6×
• support6×
• acquisitions5×
• operate5×
• partner5×
• partnership5×
• build4×
• experience4×
• financial modeling4×
• negotiation4×
• strategic4×
• engineering leaders3×
• excited3×

Counted from the posting after the mission statement and the legal notices are set aside. The ones near the top are the ones a screener is looking for.

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