VP of Strategic Partnerships & Industry Relations - Collegiate Hospitality

Job Description

We are seeking an accomplished leader to join our team as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Industry Relations. This pivotal role will be responsible for developing and executing our strategic partnership strategy to drive renewal, extension, and new revenue growth. The ideal candidate will possess deep industry expertise, a robust network, and a proven track record in cultivating strong partnerships that align with organizational objectives.

Job Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning:

• Develop and execute the strategic partnership strategy aligned with the company's growth objectives.
• Identify key areas for partnership growth that enhance market position and revenue streams.
• Establish long-term goals and short-term objectives for partnership initiatives.

2. Partnership Development:

• Identify and prioritize current and potential partners, programs, and services based on strategic fit and mutual benefit.
• Initiate contact and cultivate relationships with current and potential partners, negotiating renewal terms and extended agreements.
• Lead due diligence and partner assessment processes to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

3. Relationship Management:

• Serve as the primary strategic contact with Regional Vice Presidents, New Business Development teams, and campus leadership.
• Foster collaborative relationships with partners to ensure satisfaction and drive mutual success.
• Resolve conflicts and challenges in partnerships with diplomacy and negotiation skills.

4. Team Leadership and Development:

• Develop, mentor, and lead Strategic Partnership Directors to effectively execute partnership strategies.
• Ensure cohesive team spirit among leaders in operations and new business roles.

5. Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate with internal teams (sales, operations, marketing, legal) to align partnership activities with business objectives.
• Facilitate communication and knowledge sharing across departments to optimize partnership outcomes.
• Provide guidance and support for executing new partnership agreements, renewals, and growth initiatives.

6. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Define and monitor key performance metrics for the Strategic Partnership team, measuring effectiveness and ROI.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting partnership achievements and challenges.
• Utilize data-driven insights to optimize partnership strategies and improve outcomes.

7. Industry and Market Insight:

• Lead industry relations activities and ownership of association strategy (e.g., NACUBO, NACAS) to strengthen organizational presence.
• Manage lobbyist relationships, evaluate spend, and measure ROI on lobbying efforts.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and market dynamics to identify new partnership opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in strategic partnerships, business development, or related roles.
• Proven ability to develop and execute complex partnership strategies that drive revenue growth.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a data-driven approach to decision-making.

 

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the education services or facility management industry.
• Established network and relationships within relevant industry associations and forums.
• Familiarity with CRM software and other tools for partnership management.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.

 

This role presents a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of our partnerships and drive meaningful growth for our organization. If you are a strategic leader with a passion for building impactful relationships and driving business success through partnerships, we encourage you to apply.

 

This is a remote, work from home role with up to 70% national travel.

Benefits:

•    Flexible work arrangements
•    Paid Time Off (PTO), Vacation, nine (9) paid holidays 
•    Volunteer days, community partnerships, Employee Assistance Program
•    Your choice of three medical plans, two carriers to choose from & My Healthy Changes well-being program
•    Adoption Assistance & Paid Parental Leave
•    Tuition Funding Sources and Scholarship Programs 
•    Retirement