📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Director – Strategic Partnerships
🔹 Company: Applied Materials
🔹 Location: Santa Clara, California, United States
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Strategic Partnerships
🔹 Date Posted: 2025-06-30
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and executing ecosystem engagement strategy for Augmented Reality and Photonic Interconnect products.
- Identifying, cultivating, and managing strategic relationships across the value chain.
- Acting as a strategic advisor to the executive team, bringing a systems-thinking approach to ecosystem orchestration and value creation.
- Engaging with senior level executives within Applied and ecosystem partners to cultivate multi-level relationships.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, relationship management, and industry knowledge to succeed.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Design and implement a comprehensive partnership strategy that connects all nodes of the value chain (N-2 to N+2).
✅ Identify and evaluate partnership opportunities that align with business goals and drive mutual value.
✅ Develop frameworks for ecosystem collaboration, co-innovation, and shared growth.
✅ Build and maintain executive-level relationships with key partners across the supply and demand chain.
✅ Create and manage a multi-level engagement effort between multiple levels of Applied and PPB executives and team members with their counterparts at the partner entity.
✅ Facilitate cross-functional collaboration between internal teams and external partners.
✅ Represent the company at industry forums, consortiums, and strategic events.
✅ Serve as a strategic advisor to internal business units on partnership models, co-optimization, and ecosystem synergies.
✅ Provide insights on market trends, customer needs, and supplier capabilities to inform product and business strategy.
✅ Actively identify and help recruit key talent into Applied to strengthen our team.
✅ Travel frequently to meet with key leaders throughout the ecosystem to discover and cultivate further partnership opportunities.
✅ Establish KPIs and governance models to measure the effectiveness of partnerships.
✅ Lead negotiations, contract development, and performance management of strategic alliances.
✅ Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards in all partnership activities.
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of autonomy and requires strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field (MBA preferred).
Experience: 10+ years of experience in strategic partnerships, business development, or a related role, with a proven track record of success in the semiconductor or related industries.
Required Skills:
- Proven expertise in strategic partnerships and ecosystem development.
- Excellent relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Proven ability to influence and drive results.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in the semiconductor or related industries.
- Familiarity with Augmented Reality and Photonic Interconnect technologies.
- Experience working with senior executives and cross-functional teams.
ASSUMPTION: A strong background in strategic partnerships and a deep understanding of the semiconductor industry are crucial for success in this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $180,000.00 - $247,500.00 per year (based on the provided salary range)
Benefits:
- Health, wellness programs, professional growth, bonus, and stock options (based on the provided benefits information)
Working Hours: Full-time, with frequent travel required (based on the provided job details)
ASSUMPTION: The provided salary range and benefits are based on the company's standard compensation packages for this role and level of experience.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Applied Materials is a leading provider of materials engineering solutions for the semiconductor, flat panel display, and solar industries.
Company Size: Applied Materials has 10,001+ employees, providing a large and diverse work environment with ample opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: 1967, with a rich history and extensive experience in materials engineering and innovation.
Company Description:
- Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world.
- The company's expertise in modifying materials at atomic levels enables customers to transform possibilities into reality.
- Applied Materials' innovations make possible a better future by enabling the technologies that connect our world.
Company Specialties:
- Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment
- Materials Engineering
- Flat Panel Display Manufacturing Equipment
- Global Services for the industries served
Company Website: http://www.appliedmaterials.com
ASSUMPTION: Applied Materials is a well-established company with a strong reputation in the semiconductor industry, offering a robust benefits package and opportunities for professional growth.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the senior management level, reporting directly to the executive team.
Reporting Structure: The Director – Strategic Partnerships will report directly to the executive team and work closely with various internal teams and external partners.
Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with frequent travel required to meet with key leaders throughout the ecosystem.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to grow into a more senior role within the organization, such as Vice President or Chief Strategy Officer.
- Opportunities to expand the role's scope and impact as the company's ecosystem continues to grow and evolve.
- Chance to work on cutting-edge technologies and drive innovation in the semiconductor industry.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to make a substantial impact on the company's strategic direction.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Applied Materials' headquarters is a modern, collaborative workspace with state-of-the-art facilities.
Office Location(s): 3050 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95054, US
Geographic Context:
- Santa Clara is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing easy access to tech hubs and industry events.
- The area offers a diverse range of housing options, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.
- The Mediterranean climate provides mild winters and warm, dry summers.
Work Schedule: Full-time, with frequent travel required (based on the provided job details)
ASSUMPTION: The Santa Clara office provides a dynamic and innovative work environment, with ample opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Phone or video screen with the hiring manager or a member of the HR team.
- On-site interview with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders.
- Final interview with the executive team.
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Relationship management and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Industry knowledge and understanding of the semiconductor ecosystem.
- Communication and presentation skills.
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your strategic partnerships and ecosystem development experience.
- Prepare examples of successful partnerships you've cultivated and managed in the past.
- Research Applied Materials and the semiconductor industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
ATS Keywords: Strategic Partnerships, Ecosystem Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Market Trends Analysis, Talent Recruitment, Negotiation, Contract Development, Performance Management, Compliance, Value Creation, Co-Innovation, Relationship Management, Systems Thinking, Advisory, Operational Excellence
ASSUMPTION: The interview process will focus on assessing the candidate's strategic thinking, relationship management, and industry knowledge, as these are critical skills for success in this role.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
- Industry-specific software and tools (e.g., semiconductor design and manufacturing software)
ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies required for this role may vary depending on the candidate's background and the projects they work on.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation: Applied Materials fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Integrity: The company upholds the highest ethical standards in all aspects of its business.
- Performance: Applied Materials strives for excellence in all its endeavors, driving results through a high-performing team.
Work Style:
- Collaborative: The company encourages cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing.
- Dynamic: Applied Materials operates in a fast-paced and ever-evolving industry, requiring adaptability and resilience.
- Diverse: The company values and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce.
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Applied Materials' values of innovation, integrity, and performance?
- How comfortable are you working in a dynamic and collaborative work environment?
- How do you approach continuous learning and professional development in your role?
ASSUMPTION: A strong cultural fit with Applied Materials' values and work style is essential for success in this role.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- The role requires frequent travel, which may be challenging for candidates with personal or family commitments.
- The semiconductor industry is highly competitive and fast-paced, with constant changes in technology and market dynamics.
- The role involves managing complex partnerships and stakeholder relationships, which can be challenging and time-consuming.
- The role requires strong negotiation skills and the ability to navigate legal and regulatory complexities.
ASSUMPTION: The right candidate will be able to thrive in a challenging and dynamic work environment, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and growth.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on strategic partnerships and ecosystem development within the semiconductor industry.
- Unlike related roles in business development or sales, this role requires a deep understanding of the semiconductor ecosystem and a strategic mindset.
- Career progression in this role may lead to more senior positions in strategic partnerships, business development, or general management within the semiconductor industry.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to drive strategic partnerships and ecosystem development within the semiconductor industry, with potential for significant career growth and impact.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing a comprehensive partnership strategy for Applied Materials' entry into the Augmented Reality market.
- Negotiating and managing a strategic alliance with a key supplier to ensure a steady supply of critical materials for semiconductor manufacturing.
- Collaborating with a customer's customer to co-develop a new display technology, driving mutual growth and market expansion.
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic and collaborative nature of the Director – Strategic Partnerships role at Applied Materials.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the company's long-term vision for its strategic partnerships and ecosystem development efforts?
- How does the company support the growth and development of its strategic partnerships team?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does the company measure the success of its strategic partnerships and ecosystem development initiatives?
- What opportunities exist for collaboration and knowledge sharing with other teams and departments within the company?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to driving success.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your strategic partnerships and ecosystem development experience.
- Prepare examples of successful partnerships you've cultivated and managed in the past.
- Research Applied Materials and the semiconductor industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR team one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
