Partnerships Manager

Partnerships ManagerToday, 67% of students and 82% of low-income students can't read at grade level by the end of third grade. That's when students are supposed to go from learning to read to reading to learn. It's America's number one education crisis and we know how to fix it.Ignite Reading delivers one-to-one virtual tutoring that teaches every student the foundational skills they need to become a confident, fluent reader. We pair students who need extra support with expert reading tutors who provide daily, 15-minute, Science of Reading-based instruction that rapidly closes their decoding gaps. We focus on the foundational reading skillsphonics, phonemic awareness, and sight wordskids need to master so they can decode a sentence. Students in Ignite Reading's program achieve over 2 weeks of reading skills growth per week of instruction, and notably all students achieve the same outstanding results including students with IEPs, multilingual learners, students of color and those receiving free or reduced-price lunch.Ignite Reading is a mission-driven public benefit corporation. We believe we can do well for our team members and shareholders while we solve one of the nation's biggest challenges. We believe we will be more successful with a diverse team and are seeking candidates who have lived experience related to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.Your RoleAs a Partnerships Manager, you are at the heart of our mission to ensure every child has the chance to become a confident reader. You'll spend your days connecting with small-to-mid-sized K12 districts, sharing how Ignite Reading's 1:1 virtual literacy program can change their students' lives.This is a full-cycle sales journey where your discipline and curiosity shine. You'll guide districts through thoughtful discovery and clear execution, ensuring our solutions fit their unique needs. While you'll take the lead on most partnerships, you're never aloneour senior team is always ready to step in and support you with complex contracts or pricing. If you are a Science of Reading enthusiast who loves building meaningful relationships and wants to help kids access the instruction they deserve, we'd love to meet you.Key ResponsibilitiesGenerate Revenue & Acquire New ClientsProspect, qualify, and close new district opportunities within defined territory parametersOwn Discovery ? Demo ? Proposal ? Contract for assigned accountsMeet quarterly and annual quota targetsPipeline Development & Prospecting DisciplineBuild pipeline through outbound prospecting, events, referrals, and SDR-sourced leadsConduct structured discovery using MEDDPICC methodologyRun certified Ignite Reading demos once certifiedAccount ScopeFocus on small-to-mid-sized districtsNavigate multi-stakeholder environments with structured buying processesEscalate enterprise-level or state-wide opportunities to Director/VPCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Customer Success for smooth handoffs post-closeSupport pilots as pathways to broader adoptionCollaborate with Directors on complex or high-value opportunities when requiredQualificationsK12 EdTech Sales Foundation24 years of experience in K12 education technology sales with consistent quota attainmentExperience selling to principals, curriculum directors, literacy coordinators, and school-level leadersExposure to district procurement processesDemonstrated ability to independently manage small-to-mid-sized district opportunities from prospecting through closeAI-Enabled Sales DisciplineActive use of AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, or similar) to improve research, outreach personalization, and call preparationStrong CRM discipline and comfort using tools such as HubSpot and conversation intelligence platformsA mindset of optimization you consistently look for ways to improve efficiency, increase conversion rates, and shorten sales cyclesCore CompetenciesClear, confident communicator who can educate district stakeholders without overcomplicating the messageCoachable and growth-oriented you actively seek feedback and apply it quicklyOwnership mentality you manage your pipeline with discipline and accountabilityResilient and persistent you handle rejection professionally and stay focused on long-term winsDetail-oriented with strong HubSpot hygiene and reliable follow-throughWillingness to travel up to 65-70%Mission AlignmentGenuine passion for literacy equity and closing achievement gapsEnergy and optimism even in challenging environmentsCommitment to serving students and educators, not just hitting numbersWhy Join Ignite Reading?Transparent CompensationAt Ignite Reading, we've embraced a transparent compensation structure to promote fairness and equity, provide accountability, and build trust within our organization.Salary: $90,000 base / OTE $180K+ (this role is full-time, exempt)The same role receives the same compensation, with no negotiation.We also ensure you have the tools you need to thrive both in and out of work.Employee Stock Options - we want our success to be yours tooMedical, Dental, and Vision plans to support you and your well-being (80% employee coverage, 70% dependent coverage)Short-term Disability (100% employer paid)401(k) retirement plans with company contribution12-weeks paid parental leaveUnlimited vacation days (+ 12 paid holidays)Technology StipendWellness StipendVoluntary Life InsuranceProfessional Development StipendWe believe in building and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer where all applicants are considered for employment without attention to color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. Research shows that candidates from underrepresented backgrounds often don't apply for roles if they don't meet all the criteria unlike majority candidates meeting significantly fewer requirements. We strongly encourage you to apply if you're interested!We are seeking candidates who have lived experience related to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are a virtual organization with headquarters in the California Bay Area.