Director of Business Development & Partnerships

Pilot

Own end-to-end business development for the Pilot program: identify, qualify, and close corporate sponsors whose strategic priorities align with the capabilities of the bluetech startups in SeaAhead's ecosystem.

Develop a deep understanding of sponsor needs, challenges, and innovation priorities — translating these into intelligence that informs how SeaAhead recruits and selects startups for each Pilot cycle.

Manage the full sponsor relationship lifecycle from initial outreach through program engagement and renewal.

Work closely with the Program Manager to ensure sponsor expectations are set and met throughout each program cycle.

Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Relationships

Identify and pursue broader institutional partnerships that can expand SeaAhead's reach, credibility, and program capacity including with corporations, research institutions, government agencies, and other ecosystem players.

Develop market and partner intelligence that helps SeaAhead understand what skills, sectors, and startup profiles are most valuable to recruit into programs.

Own the stewardship of existing corporate, public sector and foundation partners: ensure reporting obligations are met, relationships are maintained, and SeaAhead remains a trusted and visible partner in their portfolios.

Work with the CEO to develop and submit grant applications and funding proposals where institutional relationships are relevant.

Represent SeaAhead at industry conferences, demo days, and sector events to maintain visibility across the blue economy.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in business development, partnerships, or a related commercial role with a demonstrated track record of independently closing partnerships, sponsorships, or B2B sales relationships, not just supporting them.
• Existing network in one or more of the following: blue economy, maritime industry, climate tech, ocean science, corporate innovation, or sustainability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to represent the organization credibly at the executive level.
• Self-directed work style; comfortable operating in a small team with limited administrative support.

Preferred

• Experience with accelerators, innovation programs, venture studios, or startup ecosystems.
• Familiarity with corporate innovation structures and how large organizations evaluate and engage with startups.
• Experience selling or developing a B2B program or service rather than a physical product.
• Experience managing public sector and/or foundation relationships, including grant stewardship, compliance reporting, and funder communications.
• Genuine passion for ocean conservation and the blue economy.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: $100,000 + Significant additional uncapped potential through commission ($100k on-target)
• Health & Wellness:
• Health and dental insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield (SeaAhead covers 50% of premium for reference plan)
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurance options including vision, life, and short-term disability
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Dependent Care Account (DCA), and transit/commuter benefits
• Retirement:
• 401(k) plan with employer match (eligible after one month of employment)

Additional:

• Flexible work environment with three days in-person at the office per week

This is an exempt position with no associated overtime pay.

Employment is contingent upon signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement and acknowledging receipt of SeaAhead's Employee Handbook.

Complete benefits details, holiday schedule, and vacation policies are available in the Employee Handbook

How to Apply

SeaAhead is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experience levels.