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Sabrina Frias
VC & M&A at Shopify
Professional Background
Sabrina Frias is an accomplished Corporate Development Manager at Shopify, where she plays a pivotal role in driving forward the company’s product roadmap. Her managerial responsibilities focus on identifying and engaging with best-in-class organizations to form strategic alliances, facilitate investments, and execute acquisitions. Sabrina's expertise lies in navigating the complex landscape of corporate development, where her strategic insights and keen analytical skills make her an invaluable component of Shopify’s future growth aspirations.
Before joining Shopify, Sabrina developed a strong background in investment banking, specifically working with Goldman Sachs in their Fintech and Asset Management Investment Banking practice. During her time there, she was involved in a wide array of financial transactions including mergers, acquisitions, and initial public offerings (IPOs). Her experiences at Goldman Sachs honed her financial acumen and prepared her for the rigorous demands of corporate development roles.
Education and Achievements
Sabrina graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce, earning First Class Honours in Investment Management from the Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University, boasting an impressive GPA of 3.8/4.0. Her academic pursuit was complemented by international exposure—as part of her education, Sabrina studied at ICADE Business School in Madrid, where she obtained a diploma in International Finance. This international academic experience greatly enriched her understanding of global markets and corporate finance.
Sabrina's educational background laid a solid foundation for her subsequent career in finance and corporate development. Additionally, her internships and previous roles have contributed to a well-rounded professional profile that encompasses both analytical and strategic functions within highly respected organizations.
Professional Experience
Sabrina’s journey began as an Equity Analyst at Desautels Capital Management, where she fostered her analytical skills and developed a nuanced understanding of market dynamics and investment strategies. She then took on a role as a Marketing and Research Intern at ScotiaMcLeod International Investment Advisory, where she gained insights into the marketing strategies of investment firms and further solidified her interest in finance.
Her career escalated when she joined Goldman Sachs as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst, a role that provided her with invaluable exposure to high-stakes financial environments. Post-internship, Sabrina was promoted to Investment Banking Analyst at the firm, giving her the opportunity to take on significant responsibilities in executing major financial transactions.
At Shopify, Sabrina's prior experiences culminate in her current position, where she utilizes her extensive background in investment banking to navigate the complexities of corporate development. Her focus on strategic partnerships reflects her commitment to accelerating growth through innovative collaboration.
Sabrina's journey is not just defined by her impressive credentials and career achievements; it is also marked by her dedication to making impactful contributions to the companies she works with. She embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and strategic vision, qualities that are essential for thriving in the fast-paced technology sector.
Achievements
Sabrina's journey through the world of finance and corporate development has brought her recognition for her exceptional performance and contributions to her teams. During her tenure at Goldman Sachs, she was involved in key transactions that not only showcased her financial expertise but also demonstrated her ability to collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders. At Shopify, she is instrumental in shaping strategic decisions that enhance product development, indicating her influence and leadership within the organization. Her academic accolades, including her First Class Honours from McGill University, solidify her reputation as a high-achieving professional.
Skills and Expertise
Sabrina possesses a diverse skill set that includes deep financial analysis, strategic thinking, market research, and relationship building, all of which are essential for corporate development roles. Her fluency in both English and Spanish, due to her time in Spain, further enhances her ability to connect with a global network of partners and stakeholders, crucial for fostering international business relationships.
