📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Business Development Manager (Partnerships)
🔹 Company: Cerence
🔹 Location: Ulm, Germany (with occasional travel to Montreal, Canada)
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Business Development
🔹 Date Posted: April 14, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 8+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site (with occasional remote work)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Strategic partnership development and management
- Relationship building and stakeholder management
- Negotiation and deal closure for mutually beneficial agreements
- Performance tracking and reporting on partnership activities
- Collaboration with internal teams for effective partnership execution
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong communication skills, and experience in business development to succeed.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Research and identify potential partners that align with Cerence AI's strategic goals
✅ Develop and execute a comprehensive partnership strategy to achieve business objectives
✅ Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify innovative partnership opportunities
✅ Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders within partner organizations
✅ Serve as the primary point of contact for partners, addressing their needs and concerns
✅ Ensure smooth and effective communication and collaboration with partners
✅ Negotiate and finalize partnership agreements that are mutually beneficial
✅ Develop and present compelling business proposals and presentations to potential partners
✅ Manage the entire partnership lifecycle, from initial contact to ongoing relationship management
✅ Monitor and evaluate the performance of existing partnerships
✅ Identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance partnership performance
✅ Prepare regular reports on partnership activities, including royalty reporting and forecasting
✅ Work closely with internal teams, such as sales, marketing, and product development, to ensure alignment and effective execution of partnership initiatives
✅ Represent the company's interests and advocate for the needs of partners
✅ Coordinate with Revenue Accounting to prepare and review royalty reports and forecasts
✅ Manage administrative tasks, including deal tracking, template agreements, and daily tasks
✅ Source and manage third-party providers, including credential management and usage monitoring
✅ Ensure compliance with contracting principles and maintain relationships with legacy providers
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Master’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (required)
Experience: 8+ years of experience in business development, with a focus on partnerships and strategic alliances (required)
Required Skills:
- Proven experience in managing third-party partnerships and collaborations
- Industry Knowledge: Experience with Generative AI, human-machine interfaces, cloud software development, or automotive applications
- Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build rapport, negotiate effectively, and present ideas persuasively.
- Relationship Management Skills: Ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with partners and stakeholders.
- Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify opportunities, develop strategies, and solve problems effectively.
- Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate contracts and agreements that are mutually beneficial.
- Project Management Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
- Market Research and Analysis Skills: Ability to understand market trends and identify potential partners.
- Business Acumen: Understanding of business principles and practices.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with Cerence AI or similar companies in the automotive AI space
- Fluency in multiple languages
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong background in business development and relevant industry experience are most likely to succeed in this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: €80,000 - €120,000 per year (based on experience and qualifications)
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan with company match
- Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
- Employee assistance program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Employee discounts on Cerence products
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with occasional remote work and travel
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles and experience levels. Actual compensation may vary based on individual qualifications and company policy.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Cerence is a global leader in creating intuitive, seamless, AI-powered experiences across automotive and transportation. They partner with leading automakers, transportation OEMs, and technology companies to advance the next generation of user experiences.
Company Size: Cerence has 1,001-5,000 employees, providing a mid-sized company environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: Cerence was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, with operations globally.
Company Description:
- Cerence AI powers integrated experiences that create safer, more connected, and more enjoyable journeys for drivers and passengers.
- The company leverages decades of innovation and expertise in voice, generative AI, and large language models to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
- Cerence AI has shipped technology in more than 500 million cars worldwide, making it a trusted partner for leading automakers and transportation companies.
Company Specialties:
- Voice technology and AI
- Generative AI and large language models
- Automotive and transportation solutions
Company Website: cerence.ai
ASSUMPTION: Cerence AI's focus on innovation and partnerships makes it an attractive company for business development professionals seeking to make an impact in the automotive AI space.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the senior management level, with the potential for growth into a leadership position.
Reporting Structure: The Business Development Manager (Partnerships) reports directly to the Vice President of Business Development.
Work Arrangement: This role is primarily on-site, with occasional remote work and travel required for partner meetings and conferences.
Growth Opportunities:
- Advancement to a leadership role within the business development team
- Expansion into new markets or product lines
- Cross-functional collaboration and skill development
ASSUMPTION: Success in this role may lead to increased responsibilities and career advancement opportunities within Cerence AI.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Cerence AI's office in Ulm, Germany, is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster innovation and creativity.
Office Location(s): Ulm, Germany (with occasional travel to Montreal, Canada)
Geographic Context:
- Ulm is a mid-sized city in southern Germany, with a population of around 120,000 people.
- The city is known for its historic architecture, including the Ulm Minster, the tallest church in the world.
- Ulm is located near the Swabian Jura, a popular region for outdoor activities and tourism.
Work Schedule: The standard workweek is Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work or travel required for partner meetings and events.
ASSUMPTION: The Ulm office provides a dynamic and engaging work environment, with opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Phone or video screening to assess communication skills and cultural fit
- In-depth behavioral and situational interviews to evaluate problem-solving skills and strategic thinking
- Final round interviews with key stakeholders, including the Vice President of Business Development
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Negotiation and deal-closing skills
- Industry knowledge and market awareness
Application Tips:
- Highlight relevant experience and achievements in business development and partnership management
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize skills and experiences that match the job requirements
- Prepare examples of successful partnerships and negotiations to discuss during the interview
- Research Cerence AI and the automotive AI industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
ATS Keywords: Business Development, Partnerships, Strategic Alliances, Negotiation, Relationship Management, Market Research, Project Management, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Problem-Solving, Business Acumen, Performance Tracking, Collaboration, Operational Excellence, Generative AI, Cloud Software Development
ASSUMPTION: Cerence AI's interview process is designed to assess candidates' skills and cultural fit, with a focus on strategic thinking, communication, and negotiation abilities.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
- Communication and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack)
- Data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI)
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant tools and technologies is expected, but training will be provided as needed.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation: Cerence AI encourages creativity and continuous learning
- Collaboration: The company fosters a culture of teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
- Integrity: Cerence AI values honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making
Work Style:
- Dynamic and fast-paced environment
- Focus on results and performance
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment?
- Are you comfortable working with diverse teams and stakeholders?
- Do you have a proven track record of successful partnership management and negotiation?
ASSUMPTION: Cerence AI values candidates who are innovative, collaborative, and results-driven, with a strong commitment to integrity and ethical decision-making.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple partnerships and projects simultaneously may require strong organizational skills and time management
- Dealing with diverse stakeholders and cultural differences may present communication and negotiation challenges
- Keeping up with industry trends and competitor activities may require continuous learning and adaptation
- Occasional travel and weekend work may be required for partner meetings and events
ASSUMPTION: Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a willingness to travel as needed.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other business development roles, this position has a stronger focus on partnership management and strategic alliances
- In the automotive AI industry, Cerence AI is a leading company with a strong reputation for innovation and collaboration
- Career progression in this role may lead to leadership opportunities within the business development team or expansion into new markets
ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities for business development professionals seeking to make an impact in the automotive AI space.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a strategic partnership plan for a major automotive manufacturer
- Negotiating and closing a deal with a leading technology company for AI integration in vehicles
- Managing a portfolio of partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including OEMs, suppliers, and technology providers
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, collaborative, and results-driven nature of the Business Development Manager (Partnerships) role at Cerence AI.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does Cerence AI support the growth and development of its business development team members?
- What are the most challenging aspects of the partnership landscape in the automotive AI industry?
- How does Cerence AI measure the success of its partnerships, and what KPIs are most important?
- What opportunities exist for collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the business development team and across the organization?
ASSUMPTION: Asking these questions demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to understanding the company's priorities and culture.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare examples of successful partnerships and negotiations to discuss during the interview
- Research Cerence AI and the automotive AI industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
