Partner Development Manager
Blank Metal
Location
Minneapolis, MN
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
Hybrid
Department
Growth
About Blank Metal
Blank Metal is an AI-native engineering company that partners with enterprises to deliver production AI fast. We blend strategic insight with hands-on execution, shipping high-impact systems that turn AI initiatives into measurable business results.
We're builders, not theorists. Our team of seasoned engineers, designers, and strategists work across industries to create AI applications that actually get used and make a difference.
Why You'll Love It Here
Build AI that ships: every project ends in a live deployment, not a slide deck
Craft meets velocity: we obsess over quality while delivering at startup speed
Outcome-driven model: our projects align with client success, not billable hours
AI-native culture: you'll work with peers who deeply understand modern AI's potential and limits
Real collaboration: open conversations, shared ownership, and space to bring your voice and creativity
The Role
We're expanding our team and seeking a Partner Development Manager who will drive revenue growth through strategic platform partnerships. This role requires someone who can build deep relationships with platform partners like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Vercel while simultaneously generating pipeline through targeted outbound partner campaigns and industry networking.
You'll own the partner business development cycle—from developing co-sell motions with major platforms to prospecting and qualifying opportunities that turn into client engagements. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives at the intersection of relationship-building, systematic outreach, and revenue execution.
What You'll Do
Platform Partner Strategy & Pipeline Generation
Develop relationships with Account Executives at OpenAI, Anthropic, Vercel and other key partners; create co-sell opportunities and systematic partner-influenced pipeline
Drive partner-sourced revenue: Build repeatable motions for generating opportunities through partner channels; track attribution and measure partner contribution to revenue
Coordinate and execute partner-facing activities: Manage partner communications, joint go-to-market initiatives, and collaborative selling efforts
Handle partner operations: Manage contracts, certification requirements, renewal cycles, and partnership agreements
Qualify inbound partner channel leads: Conduct early discovery conversations, assess fit, and schedule follow-up meetings with qualified prospects
Client Engagement & Storytelling
Translate needs into solutions: Engage with prospects to understand their priorities and challenges; map them to Blank Metal's AI capabilities and services
Communicate value: Present Blank Metal's AI engineering services in a compelling, consultative way—through presentations, proposals, and conversations
Represent Blank Metal externally: Attend conferences, industry events, and partner meetups to connect, listen, and generate qualified leads
AI-Native Partnership Operations
Conceive and lead deployment of AI agents to automate partner communications, opportunity detection, and pipeline workflows
Create and manage AI-powered tools for partner data analysis, health scoring, and attribution tracking
Demonstrate Blank Metal's AI-native approach in how partnerships are managed and scaled
Track personal performance metrics: Monitor partner-sourced opportunities, conversion rates, and overall revenue contribution
Maintain pipeline discipline: Use Crossbeam, HubSpot, and Notion to track relationships, manage workflows, and measure business development outcomes
Partner with delivery teams: Ensure opportunities are scoped realistically and positioned for client success
Collaborate with marketing: Refine messaging, co-create campaigns, and activate thought leadership that drives inbound interest
What We're Looking For
5+ years of experience in partner development, business development, or consultative sales with a track record in professional services and AI. Previous AI experience is required to be considered for this role.
Fluent in modern BD tools (HubSpot, Crossbeam, Notion) and AI-enabled workflows. Be prepared to show us agents or automations you've built.
Proven ability to build partner programs that drive measurable revenue contribution
Demonstrated success opening new accounts and generating pipeline through outbound prospecting
Strong communicator who can navigate technical conversations with engineers and strategic conversations with C-level executives
Relationship builder who can develop trust at all levels—both within partner organizations and with prospective clients
Data-driven mindset with experience tracking attribution, pipeline metrics, and program ROI
Entrepreneurial and self-directed—you thrive in environments where you build structure rather than inherit it
Comfortable representing Blank Metal publicly, both in-person and online
Open to travel for clients, partners, conferences, etc.
Compensation & Benefits
We offer comprehensive health coverage, professional development support, and flexible work arrangements.
Equal Opportunity
Blank Metal is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all backgrounds and perspectives. Diversity makes our work better and our team stronger.