Watson Institute, a dynamic organization empowering rising entrepreneurs and leaders, is currently seeking a Strategic Partnerships Coordinator. This remote full-time position offers the opportunity to work alongside a team that is focused on fostering meaningful partnerships to support Watson Institute’s mission. The successful candidate will play a key role in nurturing and growing partnerships with corporate, private foundation, and individual partners.
About Watson Institute
Since its inception in 2013, Watson Institute has been dedicated to accelerating the careers of rising leaders and entrepreneurs. The institute powers Fellowships in partnership with organizations like Ford Philanthropy, Western Union Foundation, JPMorgan Chase Foundation, and others. Watson Institute’s programs have positively impacted 6,000 rising leaders, created 1,900 paid jobs, and helped millions globally through initiatives led by its alumni. Its alumni network includes Y Combinator graduates, Echoing Green Fellows, and Forbes 30 under 30 honorees.
Role Overview
The Strategic Partnerships Coordinator will play a crucial role in Watson Institute’s efforts to enhance existing partnerships and attract new ones. The role will involve supporting corporate and foundation engagement, managing partner communications, and ensuring smooth operations for fundraising and partnership efforts.
Key Responsibilities
- Growing Corporate & Foundation Partnerships (55%)
- Partner Engagement: Support partner engagement activities, including developing detailed agendas for partner meetings, preparing Fellows, and handling post-engagement follow-up with partners.
- Partner Communication & Impact Updates: Write compelling updates, create impactful communications such as newsletters, emails, and reports, and ensure partners are informed and engaged in Watson Institute’s work.
- Corporate Advisory Board Support: Coordinate meetings and assist with logistics for the Corporate Advisory Board, ensuring meetings are productive and aligned with organizational goals.
- Current Partner Grant Applications & Final Reports: Lead the preparation of grant applications, mid-program, and final reports for current partners, ensuring accurate and timely submissions.
- Operations & Systems Coordination (25%)
- Stewardship Plans: Manage quarterly stewardship plans and ensure tasks are aligned with the fundraising calendar.
- Partner Acknowledgement: Develop and send thank-you emails and tax receipts, and ensure they are sent promptly.
- Salesforce Management: Maintain accurate records of partner interactions in Salesforce, track emails, and update data as necessary.
- Google Drive Management: Keep Watson Institute’s development folders organized and well-maintained.
- Prospect Research (20%)
- Conduct research into potential new partners, including corporations and foundations, that align with Watson Institute’s mission.
- Assist in identifying speaking opportunities and engagement applications for relevant conferences.
Desired Skills & Experience
- At least 2 years of experience in fundraising, partnership building, sales, or business development.
- A strong passion for Watson Institute’s mission to develop innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs.
- Ability to nurture and strengthen relationships with partners, helping to grow Watson Institute’s impact.
- Excellent writing skills, including persuasive communication for building partnerships.
- A systems-oriented approach to work with excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Experience with Salesforce (or similar CRM platforms) and Canva (or other graphic design tools) is a plus.
- Proficiency in Excel and the ability to analyze data effectively.
Candidate Attributes
The ideal candidate should be:
- Detail-oriented: Strong organizational skills and a passion for perfection in communication, from emails to presentations.
- Intentional: Focused on creating order, building processes, and thinking systematically.
- Results-driven: A go-getter with a drive to grow and contribute to the organization’s success.
- High Integrity: Comfortable handling sensitive information and making ethical decisions.
- Systems-minded: Experience building and implementing systems to ensure efficiency and smooth operations.
Additional Information
- Salary: $60,000–$65,000 per year, depending on experience.
- Benefits:
- Annual Happiness Fund that increases with seniority.
- Unlimited vacation with a required 3 weeks per year.
- Healthcare benefits via Thatch with the option for vision and dental plans.
- 3% automatic contribution to the retirement account.
- Location: This role can be remote, but candidates should be based in CO, PA, GA, FL, ME, AZ, DC, OK, SC, or MD.
- Start Date: May 1, 2025.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application and relevant materials. If you’re eager to join a mission-driven organization focused on developing the next generation of leaders, this is a great opportunity for you.
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