Partnership Developer

Partnership Developer

Help build meaningful partnerships that advance NC State University's research, innovation, and economic development mission. As the Partnership Developer, you will cultivate and grow strategic relationships with corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations, connecting external partners with the University's world-class faculty, research expertise, and Centennial Campus resources. Through collaboration, relationship management, and strategic engagement, this role creates high-value partnerships that benefit both the University and its partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Partnership Development & Relationship Management
• Develop, recruit, and steward strategic partnerships with corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations, serving as the primary point of contact throughout the partnership lifecycle.
• Build long-term relationships by meeting regularly with partners to identify new opportunities for collaboration, strengthen engagement, and expand the value of University partnerships.
• Learn and understand partner goals and align them with NC State's research strengths, faculty expertise, facilities, student programs, and institutional capabilities.
• Strategic Engagement & University Collaboration
• Collaborate with faculty, administrators, research units, and college leadership to identify opportunities that support multidisciplinary partnerships and research collaborations.
• Guide prospective partners through the University's partnership model, including opportunities related to Centennial Campus and, when appropriate, a real estate presence on campus.
• Represent NC State University and Centennial Campus through presentations, tours, industry events, advisory groups, and meetings with economic development organizations, government leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Project Management & Operational Support
• Serve as project manager for large-scale partnership initiatives, coordinating internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
• Maintain accurate records of partner activities, communications, meetings, and project milestones while preparing reports on partnership, prospect, and visitor activity to support strategic decision-making.
• Develop a strong understanding of University engagement processes and guide partners through available resources, tools, and collaboration pathways.

If you are a relationship builder who enjoys connecting people, ideas, and opportunities, we encourage you to apply. If you thrive in a collaborative environment, communicate effectively with varied audiences, and are passionate about fostering partnerships that support research, innovation, and economic development, we'd love to have you join the NC State team.

Other Responsibilities

In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties. This offers an opportunity to build on your skills, explore new areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the department's operations.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience - Master's degree, or Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of relevant experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Other Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated track record in business development, partnership building, or sales (university experience is a plus)
• Experience identifying common interests and building consensus among disparate groups with varying priorities
• Ability to understand technical information from multiple disciplines and represent that information across a variety of audiences (such as prospects, partners, and visitors)
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Desire to be part of a team environment as well as work individually

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required - Yes

Commercial Driver's License required - No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date - 09/15/2026

Anticipated Close Date - Open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with your completed application, please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three professional references. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.

Position Details

Position Number - 00110205

Position Type - EPS/SAAO

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) - 1.00

Appointment - 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather - Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events - Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Department ID - 261101 - Partnerships

EEO - NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.