Bradford Jacobs is assisting an AI drone solutions company, helping business customers improve mission-critical business operations. Since 2017, the company has leveraged software development expertise and grown drone design and manufacturing capabilities.

About the Role:

They are seeking a strategic and driven Innovation Partnerships Manager to lead beta trials and R&D collaborations for their advanced drone, AI, and quantum computing solutions. You will secure and manage partnerships with industry, academia, and government, ensuring successful pilot deployments and supporting the transition from trial to commercial adoption.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive Strategic Collaborations: Identify, prospect, and secure partnerships with companies, universities, and research institutions for testing our drone, AI, and quantum technologies.
• Manage Pilot Deployments: Oversee beta trials and R&D engagements from initiation through execution, acting as the primary liaison between partners and internal teams.
• Ensure Trial Success: Monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and integrate partner feedback to optimize product performance and user experience.
• Support Commercialization: Collaborate with the sales team to convert trial users into paying customers using data and success stories.
• Track Market Trends: Stay current with developments in drone tech, AI, and quantum computing to identify new partnership opportunities.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Coordinate with product, engineering, R&D, and sales teams to align partnerships with company goals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
• 3+ years in business development, partnerships, or innovation roles, ideally in drone, AI, or advanced tech sectors
• Proven experience managing pilot programs, beta trials, or research collaborations
• Strong understanding of AI, data systems, and drone technology; exposure to quantum computing is a plus
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Self-starter with strategic thinking and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel to engage with partners and stakeholders

This is a 100% on-site role based in Downtown Toronto.