Manager – Strategic Partnership
Company Overview
Our client is a high-growth deep-tech company operating at the intersection of quantum computing, AI, and advanced software platforms. The organization develops innovative solutions such as Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) and caters to government, academic, research, and enterprise customers. As the company expands its engagement with national institutions, research bodies, government organizations, and global technology partners, building strong government relationships and strategic alliances is central to its growth.
Job Summary
The Manager – Corporate Affairs & Strategic Alliances will be responsible for managing key government, institutional, and strategic partner relationships. The role aims to translate these relationships into tangible business outcomes, including sales opportunities, grants, partnerships, and co-funded programs. Reporting to the Head – Corporate & Government Affairs, the incumbent will work closely with sales, legal, compliance, and technology teams to support the company's strategic growth initiatives in the deep-tech ecosystem.
Responsibilities
- Government Relations: Develop and maintain relationships with central and state government bodies, departments, and public-sector R&D institutions. Act as the primary point of contact for government stakeholder engagement and prepare the organization for consultations, policy discussions, and committee reviews.
- Strategic Alliances: Identify, structure, and manage strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, cloud/data-center partners, and systems integrators. Build a pipeline of prospective partners and coordinate negotiations and joint initiatives.
- Sales Coordination: Support sales pursuits involving government, defense, and public-sector clients by stakeholder mapping, protocol guidance, and facilitating introductions. Participate in key government and institutional meetings as required.
- Policy Monitoring: Track policy and regulatory developments affecting quantum computing, AI, and deep-tech sectors. Prepare leadership briefs on policy implications, monitor competitor positioning, and identify emerging government programs and tenders.
- Funding & Grants: Lead or support applications for government grants, national missions, and co-funded programs. Manage submission processes, track application progress, and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.
- External Representation: Represent the company at government forums, industry bodies, trade associations, and policy roundtables. Coordinate participation in conferences, panels, and government-industry consultations.
- Relationship Tracking & Agreements: Maintain structured records of stakeholder engagement, partnerships, and agreements. Collaborate with legal teams on MOUs, partnership agreements, and government contracts.
Qualifications
- Graduate/Postgraduate degree from a Tier 1 institute such as IIT, IIM, NIT, or equivalent.
- 8–14 years of progressive experience, with at least 3–5 years working directly with government, defense, public-sector, or large institutional stakeholders.
- Strong existing network across relevant central and state government departments, national laboratories, research institutions, or academic bodies.
- Experience working in quantum computing, semiconductor, defense-tech, AI, or broader deep-tech ecosystems is preferred.
- Excellent relationship management, negotiation, and strategic partnership skills.
- Strong understanding of government policies, regulatory frameworks, and funding mechanisms.
- Ability to independently represent the organization in senior government and institutional forums.
Preferred Skills
- Deep understanding of the deep-tech ecosystem, especially quantum computing, AI, and related fields.
- Proven track record of securing government grants and managing co-funded programs.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to operate effectively across diverse stakeholders, including government officials, academia, and industry leaders.
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
- Multilingual skills or regional language proficiency (preferred but not mandatory).
Experience
- 8 to 14 years of relevant experience, including direct engagement with government, defense, or large research institutions.
- Demonstrated success in building and managing strategic alliances and government relationships.
- Experience in policy research, regulatory analysis, and stakeholder engagement within the deep-tech or high-technology sectors.
Environment
The role involves a dynamic, external-facing work environment with frequent travel across Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, and occasional international travel. The candidate will operate in a fast-paced, high-growth setting, engaging with government officials, research institutions, industry partners, and internal teams. The work may involve attending conferences, participating in policy discussions, and representing the company at various forums.
Salary
Not specified
GrowthOpportunities
Not specified
Benefits
Not specified
