ABOUT THE ALLIANCE
The Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance) serves Canadian researchers, with the objective of advancing Canada’s position as a leader in the knowledge economy on the international stage. By integrating, championing, and funding the infrastructure and activities required for advanced research computing (ARC), research data management (RDM), and research software (RS), we provide the platform for the research community to access tools and services faster than ever before.
We have an ambitious mandate — to transform how research across all academic disciplines is organized, managed, stored, and used. We work with other ecosystem partners and stakeholders across the country to help provide Canadian researchers with the support they need for leading-edge research excellence, research, innovation, and advancement across all disciplines.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Business Development and Partnerships Lead will play a pivotal role in driving the growth and expansion of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada through the identification and development of strategic partnerships. Reporting to the Director of Partnerships as part of the Strategy and Planning team, this role will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, identifying new partnership opportunities, and negotiating agreements that align with our organizational goals and objectives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Partnership Identification: Identify and research potential partners, including industry organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, and technology companies, to expand the Alliance’s network and reach.
- Relationship Building: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior executives, decision-makers, and influencers, to understand their needs and priorities and position [Insert Company Name] as a trusted partner.
- Opportunity Assessment: Evaluate partnership opportunities based on strategic fit, potential impact, and alignment with organizational goals and objectives, and present recommendations to senior leadership.
- Proposal Development: Lead the development of partnership proposals, including value propositions, pricing models, and partnership agreements, tailored to the needs and preferences of potential partners.
- Negotiation and Contracting: In collaboration with the Finance and Legal team, negotiate partnership agreements and contracts, ensuring terms and conditions are favorable and mutually beneficial for all parties involved.
- Pipeline Management: Maintain a robust pipeline of partnership opportunities, tracking progress and updating internal stakeholders on key developments and milestones.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing, product development, and legal, to ensure seamless execution and implementation of partnership agreements.
- Market Intelligence: Stay abreast of industry trends, market developments, and competitor activities, providing insights and recommendations to inform strategic decision-making.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in business development, partnership management, or related roles, preferably within the technology, research, or academic sectors.
- Proven track record of identifying, negotiating, and closing strategic partnerships that drive business growth and revenue.
- Strong networking and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts and ideas in a clear and compelling manner.
- Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset, able to identify opportunities and develop innovative solutions to drive organizational success.
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Knowledge of digital research infrastructure, and academic research environments is preferred.
- Willingness to travel as needed.
Please apply here: Business Development and Partnerships Lead (secondment opportunity)
The Alliance recognizes that challenges remain in achieving the full participation of equity-seeking groups (including women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/ racialized groups, and members of LGBTQ2+) in research careers and is committed to identifying and eliminating barriers that may exist within its own hiring process, programs, and practices.