Jakob Hardt

Jakob Hardt currently serves as Senior Manager of Corporate Development and M&A at NEW WORK SE, a leading player in the HR Tech industry with a portfolio that includes XING, onlyfy, and kununu. In this strategic role, Jakob is instrumental in shaping the company's growth trajectory by developing and executing a comprehensive M&A strategy aligned with the evolving landscape of digital HR solutions. His responsibilities extend beyond deal sourcing and business valuation; he collaborates closely with the executive board to craft corporate strategies that leverage emerging industry trends, ensuring that NEW WORK SE remains at the forefront of innovation in the HR tech space.

Jakob’s expertise in financial controlling, business analysis, and project management enables him to identify high-potential acquisition targets and evaluate their strategic fit through rigorous due diligence. His deep understanding of business valuation and corporate finance allows him to structure deals that maximize value creation while mitigating risk. Recent key projects include the successful acquisition of innovative HR SaaS platforms and strategic investments in AI-driven talent management solutions, which have significantly enhanced the company's capabilities and market positioning.

With over 12 years of experience across software, professional services, and industrial sectors, Jakob brings a data-driven approach to corporate development, combining market intelligence with financial acumen. His ability to scout emerging trends in HR technology and translate them into actionable M&A initiatives has been vital in accelerating NEW WORK SE’s growth. By supporting business units in their strategic initiatives, Jakob ensures that each deal contributes to the company's long-term vision of transforming the future of work through innovative HR solutions.