University Partnership Manager

Job SummaryThe University Partnership Manager is responsible for both managing and growing Absolute Internship’s university and institutional partnerships. The role combines account management (retention, success, and expansion of existing partners) with business development (identifying and securing new strategic partnerships).The objective is to ensure long-term partner success while expanding the organisation’s global academic network and program footprint.
About Absolute InternshipWe are a global education company creating transformative international learning experiences for students through internships, academic programs, and custom-designed global initiatives.We partner with leading universities and institutions worldwide to deliver impactful, credit-bearing programs across major global cities. Beyond program delivery, we are committed to expanding access to education through long-term social impact initiatives.Recognised by outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, and Bloomberg, we are a mission-driven organisation combining education, industry engagement, and global mobility.
Why work with us? Most jobs offer a paycheck. Some offer a career. We offer a mission. At Absolute, you join a team that is small but mighty, global yet intimate. You’ll find a culture that is versatile, entrepreneurial, and deeply flexible. We don't just "go to work", we move the needle, innovate through obstacles, and celebrate the wins, no matter the size.
Role ObjectiveTo manage, grow, and develop a portfolio of strategic university partnerships, ensuring partner satisfaction, program success, and long-term revenue growth while actively expanding the network through new institutional relationships and program opportunities.
Key ResponsibilitiesWhat we Expect: Professionalism at all times. Exemplary conduct in all internal and external interactions. Promptness and Professional communication (12-hour email response policy). Positive and respectful attitude towards all stakeholders. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and responsibility in handling financial data. Ability to work with numbers confidently and maintain data integrity. Team collaboration and readiness to support multiple finance functions as needed. Proactive behavior.Excellent communication skills written and verbal. Organizational skills to guarantee efficient time management.
1. Account Management Own a portfolio of university and institutional partners as the main point of contactEnsure high levels of partner satisfaction, engagement, and retentionManage the full partnership lifecycle: onboarding, delivery, renewal, and expansionAct as the trusted advisor to partners on program design, delivery, and outcomesCoordinate closely with internal teams to ensure seamless program executionMonitor partner performance, feedback, and program success metricsIdentify opportunities to expand existing partnerships (new programs, regions, formats)Represent Absolute at meetings, conferences, and partner visits (virtual and in-person
2. Business Development Identify, engage, and secure new university and institutional partnerships globallyDevelop tailored proposals for new academic programs and custom collaborationsLead partnership discussions from initial outreach through to signed agreementsCollaborate with internal teams to design new program models based on institutional needsAttend conferences, fairs, and institutional events to generate new leadsSupport strategic outreach into new regions and academic segmentsContribute to the development of scalable partnership models (custom programs, faculty-led, remote projects)
3. Program & Student Engagement Coordinate student-facing touchpoints where needed (e.g. interviews, pre-departure sessions)Support partner alignment on academic and operational program elementsEnsure student experience aligns with institutional expectations and learning outcomes
4. Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Operations, Marketing, and Placement teams to deliver seamless programsContribute insights from partners to improve program design and deliveryCollaborate on marketing materials, case studies, and partnership storytellingSupport continuous improvement of systems, processes, and partner experience
Key ExpectationsProfessionalism in all internal and external interactionsStrong communication and relationship-building skillsAbility to manage multiple partnerships and priorities simultaneouslyHigh attention to detail and ownership of outcomesData awareness and ability to track partnership performanceProactive, solution-oriented mindsetComfortable working in a fast-paced, international environment
Experience & Profile 5+ years’ experience in partnerships, account management, business development, or higher educationExperience working with universities or international education stakeholders is required Previous sales experience is highly desiredBachelor’s degree requiredProven track record of managing the full lifecycle of complex academic proposals, from initial market analysis and stakeholder alignment to final institutional approval and launchPositive Attitude – You think nothing is impossibleGoal oriented – You possess an acute sales instinct and aim to exceed your goalsDriven – You are confident, take initiative, and venture into uncharted territoryHighly organized and able to prioritize multiple competing requestsExcellent communication skills in both written and oral.
Training & DevelopmentPartnership & negotiation trainingHigher education ecosystem and program design understandingData literacy and performance trackingEnd-to-end understanding of the student journeyExposure to multi-market international operations
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Absolute Internship is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued, celebrated and respected. We look forward to welcoming a passionate and skilled individual to our team!