Partnerships Manager - DeFi

Interop Labs is seeking a Partnerships Manager to support and scale Axelar’s relationships with leading Layer 1s, Layer 2s, and appchain ecosystems. This role will focus on deepening engagement with blockchain foundations, ecosystem funds, and growth teams to ensure Axelar remains a trusted partner in driving multichain adoption.
The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of blockchain ecosystems and is a natural relationship builder with a service-oriented mindset. You’ll be responsible for managing day-to-day partner relationships, identifying opportunities to co-launch initiatives, and coordinating with internal teams to support successful integrations and ongoing collaborations.

• Manage and nurture active relationships with blockchain foundations, ecosystem teams, and growth leads
• Support the BD lead in identifying high-priority partner chains and coordinating outreach, onboarding, and technical scoping
• Coordinate co-marketing campaigns, hackathon sponsorships, ecosystem incentive programs, and product launches in collaboration with partners
• Track key partner milestones and ensure timely execution of joint initiatives
• Act as the primary liaison for inbound partner needs and requests, triaging with product, engineering, and marketing teams
• Maintain a CRM of partner activity, relationship status, and engagement metrics
• Represent Axelar at blockchain-specific events and community touchpoints

• 3–5 years of experience in partnerships, account management, or ecosystem development in Web3, fintech, or enterprise tech
• Familiarity with the major blockchain ecosystems and their organizational structures (foundations, DAOs, etc.)
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and a genuine interest in building long-term, trust-based relationships
• Highly organized with a strong ability to manage multiple partner tracks simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly represent Axelar’s value to diverse audiences
• Self-starter with a collaborative mindset and an eagerness to learn in a fast-paced, decentralized environment

Bonus

• Prior experience working with blockchain foundations or ecosystem funds
• Exposure to cross-chain protocols, smart contract platforms, or Web3 infrastructure tools
• Comfort navigating DAO governance and community engagement channels

• Autonomous, distributed environment with the opportunity to work collaboratively in a diverse team worldwide
• The scope to contribute to high impact work and make a difference in a decentralized protocol
• The chance to challenge yourself whilst learning heaps of stuff in the process.
• Unlimited time off throughout the year to rest and recharge
• Competitive compensation with stock options, experiencing growth from the initial phase