Current is a water technology innovation organization that delivers advanced research and market-driven innovations to enhance water resources, build resilience and drive sustainable economic growth by bridging gaps in water technology commercialization. Current connects utilities, industry, research institutions, and entrepreneurs in the water economy to solve pressing water challenges.

Current is accepting applications for a newly created role of Partnership & Development Manager. Current is seeking a professional with at least 7 years of experience in business development, marketing, and external affairs expertise. The senior position reports to the Executive Director.

This position will focus on creating new opportunities for engagement with Current among its diverse public/private-sector stakeholders that include innovators, utilities, industry, investors, researchers, NGOs, and others. By growing Current’s community of members/clients and collaborators, the Partnership & Development Manager will enhance Current’s regional, national and global reach to create value and impact by advancing innovation.

Given Current’s broad mandate, this role requires capabilities that span member development and relationship management, communications, grants management, and program execution/service delivery. The Partnership & Development Manager will work closely with Current’s Executive Director to develop and implement a stakeholder engagement, membership and advisory service strategy.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Develop and implement Current’s partnership and development strategy and lead Current's efforts to engage prospective members, clients and partners
Effectively and authentically convey Current’s value proposition to prospective members/clients/partners, including the advantages of membership, services and programs
Support existing members/clients, ensuring delivery of desired services/benefits
Manage and maintain all data and processes related to membership/client recruitment and retention, including data tracking and reporting
Support communications/marketing efforts through social media and other channels in coordination with the Executive Director and Communications Manager
Attend events, conferences, tradeshows that offer business development opportunities
Stay up-to-date on market trends related to end-user needs and technology innovation to inform the development and delivery of Current’s programs and services
Oversee the planning, recruitment, logistics and execution of all member engagement events
Manage all grants and lead the response to grant opportunities from local, regional, national and international funders; develop an individual giving/donation strategy

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree preferred
7+ years of experience performing job responsibilities similar to those outlined above including project management, customer service, marketing and promotion of services
Proven experience managing client relationships
Prior experience and existing connections in water or related industry preferred
Exceptional organizational and systems building skills and attention to detail
Experience with database management and Microsoft Office Suite required
Event operations and logistics experience
Ability to prioritize and follow through effectively
Ability to handle multiple tasks, projects and priorities effectively and professionally
Ability to travel as needed; current driver’s license required; access to vehicle preferred

Work Style

Strong entrepreneurial work ethic and a desire to “get the job done”
Self-starter with passion for building a new enterprise and evolving the water tech innovation paradigm
Positive attitude, creative problem-solver who is eager to meet and exceed goals and targets
Ability to handle multiple priorities, organize, plan, meet deadlines and multi-task in a fast-paced start-up environment
Strong strategic thinking with project management, negotiation, follow-up/documentation skills
Ability to work independently and also be a team player

Communication Skills

Excellent customer relations skills
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, including comfort with public speaking/presentations
Advanced interpersonal skills, including well-developed listening skills
Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical teams/audiences

This position is based at our headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Compensation package commensurate with experience.

To apply, please submit cover letter and resume to Steve Frenkel at sfrenkel@currentwater.org.

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