Manager, Partnerships and Business Development

Job Summary

The Nucleus Institute at the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) is seeking a candidate to serve as our Manager, Partnerships and Business Development. In this role, you will identify and cultivate new partnership opportunities, expand our network of stakeholders, and drive initiatives that support organizational growth and impact.

Responsibilities

• Identify, research, and develop new partnership opportunities that align with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
• Experience managing and growing a membership-based revenue model.
• Build and maintain relationships with corporate partners, investors, government agencies, universities, industry associations, family offices, and other key stakeholders.
• Support fundraising efforts for Convergence Hall and other Nucleus programs.
• Generate and qualify new business opportunities through outreach, networking, events, referrals, and market research.
• Develop and manage a pipeline of prospective partners and business opportunities using our CRM system and other tracking tools.
• Prepare partnership proposals, presentations, sponsorship packages, and business development materials.
• Represent the organization at conferences, industry events, networking functions, and community engagements.
• Conduct market analysis to identify emerging trends, competitive activity, and potential growth opportunities.
• Cook with marketing and communications teams to support partner engagement, visibility, and activation efforts.
• Track partnership performance and provide regular reporting on key metrics, outcomes, and return on investment.
• Maintain strong knowledge of the organization's programs, services, and strategic priorities to effectively communicate value propositions.
• Develop strategic account plans for high-priority partners and stakeholders.
• Manage partner onboarding and ensure successful execution of partnership commitments.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's or equivalent experience in Business Development, Entrepreneurship, or related field (1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience)
• 6 years' experience in business development is required, preferably within the startup ecosystem or closely related field.

Skills & Abilities

• Proven track record in business development, membership-driven revenue generation, and partnerships.
• Strong connections within the Utah business community, especially with startups, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurial networks.
• Excellent networking, communication, and interpersonal skills, capable of building and maintaining relationships with a diverse array of stakeholders.
• Commitment to fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the educational sector.