Community Partner and Business Development Specialist

iSPACE has a small but dedicated and enthusiastic staff that gets kids excited about STEM disciplines through hands-on, minds-on activities. Our mission is to ignite a passion for Science and Technology so that all learners are prepared to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce. iSPACE has a long history of collaboration and a recent significant cooperative effort was the creation of Soil and Stars, a partnership established to purchase a property that iSPACE and Gorman Heritage Farm share. We seek a self-starter to identify and cultivate new strategic relationships to develop new business, increase revenue, and maintain stakeholder satisfaction.

Job Description

As the Community Partner and Business Development Specialist, after becoming knowledgeable about iSPACE programs, you will formalize the method for identifying potential strategic partnerships and develop a process for engaging organizations, including schools, businesses, potential donors, and nonprofits. You will determine the benefits of collaboration for both entities, approach these businesses and organizations with the value proposition, establish new partnerships and nurture current partnerships, coordinate with volunteers, and champion events. This role reports to the Executive Director, who reports to the iSPACE Board of Directors. Local travel will be required (mileage is reimbursed).

Job Responsibilities

1. Conduct primary research to identify potential partners and develop strategies to build and maintain community partnerships (schools, businesses, and other nonprofit organizations), including the stewardship of all current partnerships.
2. Research and develop new relationships with companies to support current program services via sponsorships and volunteers.
3. Expand corporate relations and sponsorship programs with the possible creation of unique new programming co-designed by iSPACE and its partner.
4. Plan and coordinate corporate outreach events.
5. Develop stewardship and retention strategies to sustain a growing portfolio of active corporate partners, including documented moves management (research, prospecting, cultivating, soliciting, stewarding, and renewing/upgrading).
6. Coordinate scheduling and work closely with Volunteer Coordinator to ensure corporate partners are informed about volunteer opportunities, properly trained (if applicable), and enjoy their experience.
7. Monitor and follow up with corporate partners on their sponsorship or fundraising progress.
8. Expand current relationships with schools and create new relationships with schools we do not currently serve.
9. Work with school district staff to determine areas for growth (i.e., a potential new program to address a need, etc.).
10. Work with other STEM organizations and universities in the Cincinnati metro area to identify and pursue opportunities for collaboration.
11. Develop and maintain regular communications with partners, and work with the Marketing team to create and maintain marketing materials and partnership tools.
12. Create and maintain a detailed record of current and prospective community partners using Salesforce.
13. Act as an advocate and spokesperson at events and other engagements (shared responsibility with the leadership team).
14. Assist with fundraising efforts, including grant writing support to help fund continuing or new programming.
15. Perform additional responsibilities related to the success of the organization.

Key Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities Preferred

• Supportive of iSPACE’s mission, vision, and values. Will adhere to policies and procedures.
• BA/BS degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Two to five years of experience in project management, business or partnership development, nonprofit management, sponsorship, or other relevant experience.
• Familiarity with nonprofit organizations or educational institutions.
• Ability to manage short and long-term responsibilities, implement goals and objectives, execute moves management (research, prospecting, cultivating, soliciting, stewarding, and renewing/upgrading), and provide administrative support.
• Highly capable of building relationships through interpersonal skills, rapport, and promoting positive relationships with colleagues, businesses, schools, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, including planning and prioritization skills, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including timely and relevant communication with staff and stakeholders and comfort with public speaking.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality and integrity.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office suite, research, and CRM (we use Salesforce) or related area.
• Experience working with organizations to identify opportunities, organize resources, develop proposals, and plan projects.
• Maintain a strong focus on stakeholder satisfaction keeping potential collaborations at the forefront of relationships. Communicate with a positive demeanor.
• A valid driver’s license is required; all candidates will be subject to fingerprinting/background checks.

iSPACE is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. At iSPACE, we honor, appreciate, and recognize our employees and respect their uniqueness. Having diverse experiences, backgrounds, and cultures broadens our horizons, enriches our lives, and promotes valuing others. iSPACE is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel welcome.