Job Description
Education - Full-time
Partnership Development Manager Job Summary:
A Christian University in West Michigan is seeking a full-time Partnership Development Manager to drive efforts in generating enrollment and donor leads by developing strategic partnerships with corporate, non-profit, and military organizations. This role focuses on building and maintaining relationships within the community, with an emphasis on connecting with decision-makers at the VP, GM, and director levels. The Partnership Development Manager will spend approximately 80% of their time outside the office, cold calling, networking, attending career fairs, and educational events. The core of the University’s work is rooted in its Christ-centered mission, and this role will also play a part in representing and supporting the faith-based values of the institution.
Partnership Development Manager Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain a targeted list of decision-makers in corporate, non-profit, and community sectors, focusing on VP, GM, and director-level contacts.
- Regularly attend business and networking events (e.g., Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce) to build community contacts and partnerships.
- Create and implement a strategic 30, 60, 90-day plan for lead generation and partnership building.
- Continuously develop relationships with organizational decision-makers to generate a consistent flow of quality student leads.
- Conduct group information sessions, including seminars, webinars, and lunch & learns, to present the university’s program offerings.
- Assist in developing partner agreements, including discounts and special offers.
- Track and document all lead activities and engagements within the CRM system.
- Collaborate with enrollment representatives to ensure timely follow-up on leads.
- Serve as a Christian leader and mentor, interacting with students in various settings, exemplifying a gospel-centered lifestyle, and supporting discipleship through a Biblical worldview.
- Additional duties as required to support university mission and objectives.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Candidates must be able to demonstrate beliefs that align with the core mission and values of the university
- Knowledge of adult higher education markets, or experience as a working professional who has earned a degree.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in outside sales, business development, or account management.
- Proven ability to influence decision-makers and secure commitments.
- Strong computer skills and ability to learn and use student-tracking databases.
- Self-motivated with a deep belief in the power of education and a passion for helping adults achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals.
- Understanding of adult learners’ motivations for pursuing higher education.
- Ability to go above and beyond to meet goals and deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey degree information to diverse audiences.
- Professional presentation skills, capable of speaking to both small and large groups.
- Reliable transportation for travel within the regional area to attend meetings, events, and organizational visits.
Schedule & Compensation:
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm or 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
- $55,000-$60,000/yr., BOE
Partnership Development Manager Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in outside sales, business development, or account management.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with decision-makers.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- A passion for working with adult learners and a deep belief in Christian values.
- Must be comfortable in a role that requires significant travel and networking.
Apply Now!
- Quick Apply Here
- Send Susan your resume to susan.delauter@srgexpress.com
- Give our office a call: 616-608-9678 (direct) 616-608-9681 (office)
- Stop by our office: 1760 44th Street SW, Suite 10, Wyoming, MI 49519, Inside the Chateau Centre.
Position Type: Full-Time, Evaluation Hire
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
About Specialized Recruiting Group, an Express Employment Professionals Company:
Specialized Recruiting Group is a professional and executive search firm specializing in engineering, operations, human resources, and other critical roles. Since 1996, we’ve connected talented professionals with companies that align with their values and goals. We are driven to help people succeed and are passionate about making a positive impact.