Strategic Partnerships Relationship Manager

This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Strategic Partnerships Relationship Manager in the United States.

This role sits at the center of high-value strategic partnerships within the payments and financial technology ecosystem, focusing on managing and optimizing relationships with key issuer processing and network partners. It is responsible for ensuring that external partners deliver against contractual commitments while supporting enterprise growth, operational excellence, and innovation. The position plays a critical role in shaping partner strategy, negotiating complex agreements, and aligning external capabilities with internal business priorities. It requires strong executive presence and the ability to influence senior stakeholders both internally and externally. The role operates in a highly dynamic, fast-paced environment where commercial acumen, relationship management, and risk mitigation are essential. It also contributes directly to long-term strategic planning and the continuous improvement of partnership performance. This is a high-impact position where decisions directly affect revenue, service quality, and enterprise scalability.

• Manage and govern relationships with key strategic partners, ensuring alignment with business objectives and delivery of agreed contractual outcomes.
• Lead negotiation of complex commercial agreements, including pricing structures, incentives, rebates, SLAs, and performance terms.
• Monitor partner performance against contractual obligations and drive corrective actions when gaps or risks are identified.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across legal, finance, product, and operations to optimize partner strategy and execution.
• Serve as the escalation point for high-level partner issues, ensuring timely resolution and alignment on priorities.
• Identify opportunities to enhance value through contract optimization, business expansion, and improved operational performance.
• Develop and maintain joint business plans, performance reviews, and governance frameworks such as QBRs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field required; MBA preferred or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years of experience in strategic partnerships, business development, account management, or product management within the payments or card issuing ecosystem.
• Strong background working with or around major processors or networks (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, Fiserv, FIS, or similar platforms).
• Proven experience negotiating complex commercial agreements, including SLAs, pricing models, and incentive structures.
• Strong understanding of issuer processing systems, card networks, and financial institution services.
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills with executive-level presence.
• Strong analytical and commercial mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $126,600 – $164,600 USD annually, based on experience
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including telemedicine support
• Paid time off, paid holidays, and family leave programs (maternity, parental, and caregiving support)
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life, disability, and supplemental insurance coverage
• Mental health and employee assistance programs (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Wellness programs and community volunteer time off
• Flexible, remote-first work environment