Business Development Associate POSITION OVERVIEW: CED’s Business Development Associate will play a critical role in expanding our affiliate marketing program, which is designed to foster mutually beneficial partnerships with corporate entities. Our program aims to drive customer acquisition and revenue growth for our partners while enhancing CED’s network and support for high-growth startups in the Triangle area. By developing strategic partnerships, optimizing program performance, and ensuring high partner satisfaction, the Business Development Associate will contribute significantly to CED’s mission of fostering a dynamic and collaborative entrepreneurial ecosystem. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Affiliate Program Development: Identify and approach potential corporate partners to introduce them to our affiliate program. Develop and present compelling proposals and presentations to potential partners. Negotiate and close partnership agreements to expand our affiliate partner network. Develop and implement a comprehensive affiliate marketing program to drive customer acquisition and revenue. Monitor and optimize the performance of the affiliate marketing program through data analysis and strategic adjustments. Generate strategies to create demand for corporate affiliate programs and opportunities. Managing Affiliate Program Accounts: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the affiliate program. Monitor affiliate performance and provide regular reports and insights. Address partner inquiries and resolve any issues promptly. Ensure partners adhere to program guidelines and policies. Outline and manage amenities to ensure high retention rates among affiliate partners. Prospecting: Conduct market research to identify new partnership opportunities. Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective partners. Reach out to potential partners through various channels including email, phone, and social media. Sales Pipeline Management: Provide administrative and operational assistance to the Head of Business Development as needed. Assist with the development and implementation of business strategies. Assist with the preparation of reports, presentations, and other materials for internal and external meetings. Maintain ongoing communications with corporate partners, such as general partner outreach and sustained touchpoints, procuring spotlight articles, and newsletter content. Partner Event Management: Plan, coordinate, and execute partner events and activities along with the Events Manager. Collaborate with marketing and other departments to ensure successful event promotion and coordination. Assist with the management of event logistics including venue selection, invitations, and on-site support. PAST ADVENTURES INCLUDE 3-5 years of experience in business development, sales or related roles. Proven experience in affiliate marketing program management and project management. Strong understanding of affiliate marketing and partnership management. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. Proficient in Microsoft Office suite, Salesforce, Canva, and Asana. Experience working in entrepreneurial environments or startup ecosystems is preferred.And if you had access to formal education, a degree in Business, Marketing, or related field may help you be successful in this role. WHO YOU ARE AS A HUMAN: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with an emphasis on persuasive and motivational dialogue. Tech curious and look to leverage new tech to increase collaboration, productivity and automation. Innate ability to manage and influence individuals without direct authority over them, often referred to as a “superpower” in indirect management. Strong organizational and project management skills, with an eye for detail and relentless follow-through. Proven problem-solving prowess, with the capacity to work under pressure and within tight deadlines. Adaptable and a strategic thinker, with a passion for the entrepreneurial spirit and community development. WHY CED? As an essential member of our team, you will be on the front lines of entrepreneurial innovation, playing a key role in shaping a supportive ecosystem for high-growth startups. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant, lasting impact on the future of entrepreneurship in North Carolina, facilitating the exchange of expertise and resources among the state’s most promising business minds. Apply Here CED is a 501(c) 3 non profit and offers competitive salaries, full company-paid benefits, a flexible work environment, an open PTO policy, and a matching SIMPLE IRA plan. At CED, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We look forward to hearing from you and potentially having you join our team to shape the future of entrepreneurship in North Carolina.