Strategic Partnerships Development Manager

Strategic Partnerships Development Manager – Payment Solutions Industry: Payments Technology / FintechContract: Perm - Full Time Location: DubaiAbout the roleOur client, a payment orchestration platform, is looking for a commercially driven Strategic Partnerships Manager to identify, develop and secure new partnerships with payment service providers (PSPs), acquirers and other relevant payments businesses.This is a relationship-led business development role focused on expanding the platform’s partner network and payment coverage. You will manage opportunities from initial research and outreach through to commercial negotiation, signed agreements and handover for onboarding.Previous experience working in the payments industry is essential. Broader fintech experience without direct payments experience will not meet this requirement.Key responsibilitiesResearch and identify prospective PSPs, acquiring banks, payment processors and other relevant partners aligned with the platform’s growth strategy.Proactively approach potential partners and build relationships with senior commercial and technical decision makers.Clearly present the platform’s value proposition and demonstrate the benefits of a partnership.Assess prospective partners’ payment capabilities, geographic coverage and commercial suitability.Own the partnership development process from initial contact through to commercial agreement.Lead commercial negotiations within agreed parameters, coordinating with legal and compliance teams to progress contracts and due diligence.Maintain an accurate partnership pipeline, manage follow-ups and report on progress, opportunities and barriers.Represent the business at relevant industry events, conferences and networking opportunities.Collaborate with commercial, product and technical teams to assess opportunities and support integration planning.Coordinate clear handovers for partner onboarding and help maintain momentum towards activation.Essential experience and skillsPrevious experience working for a payments business, such as a PSP, acquirer, payment gateway, processor or payment orchestration provider.Proven success in business development, strategic partnerships or partner acquisition within payments.A strong understanding of PSPs, acquiring, payment processing and the wider payments ecosystem.Demonstrable experience turning initial introductions into commercial partnerships.Strong communication, presentation, networking and negotiation skills.Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and managing commercial discussions.A proactive, self-motivated approach and the ability to deliver independently.Strong organisational skills and experience managing multiple partnership opportunities simultaneously.DesirableAn established network of contacts across PSPs and acquirers.Direct experience working with a payment orchestration platform.Experience supporting partners through integration, onboarding and activation.Availability to start at short notice.Priorities for the initial three monthsSpecific targets will be agreed at the start of the contract, with a focus on:Establishing a prioritised list of suitable PSP and acquirer partners.Building a qualified pipeline and securing meetings with relevant decision makers.Progressing opportunities into substantive commercial discussions and proposals.Advancing priority partnerships towards signed agreements, with clear next steps for onboarding.Providing regular, accurate reporting on progress and any dependencies affecting delivery.To applyPlease share your CV, availability and a brief overview of your payments experience, including examples of PSP or acquirer partnerships you have personally developed and secure to Admin@lktalentcollective.com