Job Summary:
The Partnerships Manager will play a strategic role in identifying, developing, and managing national and international partnerships that align with institutional goals. This role involves establishing strong networks with corporate, governmental, nonprofit, and academic entities, while ensuring compliance, documentation, reporting, and follow-up. The manager will facilitate relationship development, oversee partnership agreements (MOUs), and lead initiatives to expand industry and academic collaborations that support employability, research, student engagement, and funding opportunities.
Job Description:
Partnership Manager
American University of Ras Al Khaimah
General information about institution
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is an independent co-education institution of Higher Education that provides an integrated American-style undergraduate and graduate education. All programs are accredited by the Ministry of Education of the UAE; additionally, it is accredited by the U.S. regional accreditation association, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The American model of higher education ensures not only skills in specific academic fields, but also a general education curriculum that exposes students to new ideas and ways of thinking critically about local and global issues. AURAK is a young and rapidly growing university. AURAK is located in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the Northern Emirates and a rapidly growing region. The beauty of Ras Al Khaimah is reflected in its traditions and diverse landscapes — its white sandy beaches, the majestic Hajjar Mountains, the expansive desert and its sands dunes, and the many historical sites.
AURAK values diversity, inclusiveness and cultural authenticity where all individuals are treated based on their merits and abilities. AURAK is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified applicants irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or age.
Job Purpose & Responsibilities
The Partnerships Manager will play a strategic role in identifying, developing, and managing national and international partnerships that align with institutional goals. This role involves establishing strong networks with corporate, governmental, nonprofit, and academic entities, while ensuring compliance, documentation, reporting, and follow-up. The manager will facilitate relationship development, oversee partnership agreements (MOUs), and lead initiatives to expand industry and academic collaborations that support employability, research, student engagement, and funding opportunities.
Minimum Qualifications and Education
- Essential: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Education, or related field.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and prioritize responsibilities to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Desirable: Master’s degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline
Experience working with the public, especially in roles involving customer service, community engagement, or alumni relations, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
Required Knowledge and Skills
- Strong communication and negotiation skills (English & Arabic).
- Proficient in MS Office, CRM systems, and digital collaboration tools.
- Skilled in drafting and managing MOUs and partnership agreements.
- Excellent project management and organizational abilities.
- Ability to build and maintain professional relationships across sectors.
- Knowledge of partnership development, reporting, and ROI tracking.
- Attention to detail, confidentiality, and multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
Work Experience
- 4–6 years’ experience in partnership development, external relations, or international collaboration
- Experience managing local and international partnerships and MOUs.
- Skilled in coordinating with corporate, government, and academic stakeholders.
- Organized partnership events and ensured effective follow-up and reporting.
- Strong relationship management and professional communication skills.
Language proficiency required
Fluent in English and Arabic
Competencies
- Service Excellence-
- Professional Ethics and Integrity-
- Problem-solving-
- Time Management-
- Teamwork-
Reporting line
VP- Office of Institutional Advancement and External Relations