About Opengates

Opengates is a platform dedicated to connecting refugees with meaningful digital work opportunities worldwide. We believe in the power of technology and collaboration to break barriers and create economic empowerment for displaced individuals. Through innovative learning tools, remote collaboration spaces, and a thriving community, Opengates helps refugees and businesses alike to discover new possibilities and foster mutual growth.

Role Overview

As the Head of Partnership and Business Development, you will be responsible for identifying, nurturing, and expanding strategic relationships that propel Opengates’ mission forward. Reporting directly to the executive leadership, you will oversee partnership strategies, negotiate high-value collaborations, and drive our growth trajectory. This role is compensated through equity/share-based arrangements, reflecting our status as an early-stage startup.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Partnership Development

• Identify and evaluate potential partnerships with NGOs, educational institutions, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and technology firms.
• Develop a clear strategy to onboard new partners that align with Opengates’ mission and growth goals.

Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with existing partners to ensure ongoing collaboration and mutual value creation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for key external stakeholders, representing Opengates’ brand and mission.

Business Growth and Equity Value

• Craft and execute business development plans that expand market presence, diversify resources, and increase Opengates’ overall equity value.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Product, Operations) to design partnership offerings that drive user acquisition and platform adoption.

Market Research and Analysis

• Monitor industry trends, emerging markets, and competitor activities to identify new partnership opportunities.
• Conduct market analyses to inform strategic decisions and ensure alignment with Opengates’ long-term vision.

Contract Negotiation and Management

• Lead contract negotiations, define partnership terms, and ensure all collaborations comply with legal and financial guidelines.
• Oversee the lifecycle of partnership agreements, including renewals, expansions, and performance evaluations.

Team Leadership

• Recruit, mentor, and lead a small team of partnership managers or business development associates, ensuring high performance and professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, ownership, and continuous improvement.

Reporting and Performance Metrics

• Define KPIs for partnership success (e.g., user growth, brand visibility) and report regularly to executive leadership.
• Use data-driven insights to refine strategies, optimize partnerships, and highlight success stories internally and externally.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field. MBA or Master’s degree is a plus.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in partnership development, business development, or strategic alliances, preferably in the tech, social enterprise, or nonprofit sectors.
• Skills:
  • Proven track record of closing complex deals, managing high-value relationships, and driving measurable growth.
  • Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities, with experience building and guiding small teams.
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret market data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
  • Passion for social impact, innovation, and empowering underserved communities.

Personal Attributes

• Mission-Driven: Deep commitment to Opengates’ vision of connecting refugees with global opportunities.
• Relationship-Oriented: Skilled at building trust, influencing stakeholders, and fostering long-term collaborations.
• Strategic Thinker: Capable of setting clear goals, adapting to changing environments, and steering the organization toward sustainable growth.
• Innovative & Agile: Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment where creativity and adaptability are essential.
• Team Player: Collaborative spirit with a willingness to partner cross-functionally and lead by example.

What We Offer

• Equity Compensation: Ownership stake in Opengates, aligning incentives and fostering a shared commitment to our success.
• Impactful Work: Shape the future of digital work for refugees worldwide, making a tangible social impact.
• Growth Opportunities: Opportunities to learn, develop, and take on increasing responsibility in a dynamic, early-stage environment.
• Inclusive Culture: A supportive, mission-driven setting that values collaboration, diversity, and professional excellence.