The Centre of Excellence (CoE) for AI is dedicated to building a robust innovation ecosystem in India to solve industry challenges by collaborating with enterprises, government departments, PSUs, premier institutes, and start-ups. We seek a driven, relationship-first professional to lead partner engagement and ecosystem growth for the CoE. You will be the face of the CoE to industry-acquiring new partners, deepening existing relationships, and delivering outcomes that make partners stay, grow, and advocate.
Location: Gujarat
Department: COE-IOT
Reporting To: Senior Manager
Basic Functions/ Job Responsibility
Partner Acquisition & Ecosystem Outreach
- Identify, engage, and onboard new Industry partners i.e. Enterprises and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to expand the CoE ecosystem footprint
- Own targets for partner acquisition, renewals, and engagement KPIs
- Drive outreach through events, roadshows, and direct connects to build a strong pipeline
- Lead discussions and negotiations with CXOs, CEOs, and industry leaders
- Represent the CoE at forums, summits, and trade events to generate partnerships and visibility
Partner Relationship Management & Growth
- Own relationships with strategic partners across onboarding, engagement, renewal, and expansion
- Draft and customise MoUs, proposals, and collaboration decks aligned to partner priorities
- Run structured engagement reviews and joint initiatives with partners
- Identify opportunities for new programs, pilots, sponsorships, and collaborations
- Track partner satisfaction and proactively address risks to improve retention
Reporting & Internal Collaboration
- Track partner outcomes, KPIs, and revenue opportunities; prepare impact reports for leadership
- Maintain accurate partner data including pipeline, renewals, and engagement history
- Coordinate with internal teams for timely execution and quality partner outcomes
- Share market feedback and ecosystem insights to strengthen CoE offerings and strategy
Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
- 10 years of experience in B2B partnerships, alliances, business development, or account management within technology, consulting, or innovation ecosystems
- MBA / PG in Business, Technology, or related field
- Proven track record of building and scaling multi-stakeholder relationships
- Experience drafting MoUs, partnership agreements, and proposals
- Exposure to AI, data, digital transformation, or technology-led engagements (commercial and/or delivery side)
- Strong communication skills in English; Gujarati / Hindi advantageous
- Strong network within industry bodies, chambers, enterprises, or startup ecosystems preferred
