Business Development and Partnerships Manager

Business Development and Partnerships ManagerThe Partnerships Executive will be responsible for driving revenue growth by identifying, developing, and closing new business opportunities, with a strong emphasis on leveraging CRM, sales strategies around Data, Platform and Influencer Managed Service sales. This role requires a proven track record of direct sales experience, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to build and maintain strong client and partner relationships. The ideal candidate will deeply understand the gaming and broader influencer marketing industry and have a passion for helping clients and partners achieve their business objectives through our solutions, particularly creator data, CRM, and managed service offerings.Key Responsibilities:Lead Generation & Prospecting:Identify and qualify new business opportunities through various channels, including networking, cold calling, and industry events.Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of prospects.Leverage current network to build enterprise commercial opportunities with major game publishers and other organizations within the influencer industry.Sales Process Management:Conduct comprehensive needs analysis to understand customer requirements and position our influencer solutions effectively.Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and product demonstrations to prospective clients.Develop and present proposals, negotiate terms, and close sales agreements.Develop and execute account plan(s) for assigned ABM accounts.Partnership Development & Management:Identify, cultivate, and manage strategic partnerships that align with business objectives.Develop and execute partnership strategies to drive growth, expand market reach, and enhance product offerings.Negotiate and finalize partnership agreements, ensuring mutual value and alignment of goals.Collaborate with internal teams (marketing, product, and customer success) to ensure successful partnership integration and execution.Relationship Building:Establish and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key stakeholders, clients and partners.Serve as a trusted advisor to clients and partners, providing insights and recommendations that align with their strategic goals.Leverage network to drive commercial opportunities.Collaboration & Reporting:Regularly update CRM systems with accurate and detailed information regarding sales activities, pipeline status, forecasts, and partnership progress.Provide feedback to the product team on market needs and trends.Achieve Sales & Partnership Targets:Meet and exceed quarterly and annual sales targets.Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify growth opportunities for both direct sales and partnerships.Requirements:Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or relevant experience. 3 - 5 years of direct sales and/or business development/partnerships experience in the software industry, with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding targets.Background and experience in games, esports, or influencer marketing.Strong understanding of the software sales cycle and partnership development process, from lead generation/partner identification to closing deals.Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.Experience reporting sponsorship or influencer campaign KPIs from various social and live-streaming platforms.Proficiency in using sales software (including HubSpot) and other sales/partnership tools.Willingness to travel as needed.Benefits:Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.