Business Development Manager - AI Partnerships

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strategic partnerships within the AI ecosystem, including startups, hyperscalers, semiconductors, and ecosystem partners.
• Collaborate with product groups to align AI partnership strategies with Cisco's core strengths.
• Develop and execute partner support plans for innovation, enablement, marketing, and co-selling.
• Provide insights into emerging AI and market trends, and articulate Cisco's positioning within the ecosystem.
• Identify, evaluate, and support AI-focused partnership opportunities with industry key players.
• Build and nurture relationships with technical and business partners across the AI ecosystem.
• Work cross-functionally with Cisco's product, engineering, sales, marketing, and legal teams to ensure successful partnership outcomes.
• Manage all aspects of the program, including governance, business planning, ROI analysis, and metrics reporting.
• Identify areas for enhancement and implement solutions to accelerate growth.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in a Product Management, Technical Marketing, or Partnerships role.
• Experience in driving partnerships and leading go-to-market initiatives for high-performing companies.
• Experience managing the end-to-end product lifecycle for consumer or enterprise offerings.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze market data and sales metrics to support strategic decisions.
• Experience in cloud infrastructure, semiconductors, or Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (highly desired).

Nice to Have

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills with a strategic approach.
• Ability to influence senior executives and lead solution sales across matrixed teams.
• Experience thriving in an ambiguous, fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to navigate cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
• Demonstrate adaptability and comfort with ambiguity in a rapidly evolving industry.
• A passion for AI-driven innovation and a strong interest in AI trends, technologies, and key players.
• Broad understanding of Cisco's products, services, and partner community to accelerate joint sales activities.

Qualifications

• Educational background is not explicitly specified in the description.

Benefits & Perks

• Paid time off
• Dedicated paid time off to volunteer (80 hours each year)