AVP, Strategic Partnerships

Cross River•Fort Lee, NJ

21h•$150,000 - $170,000

About The Position

The AVP, Strategic Partnerships (officially titled AVP, Strategic Partnerships) manages new Enterprise accounts and strengthens existing client partnerships. This role serves as the front line for Banking as a Service fintech clients, builds trust, and develops high-impact partnerships while working across Cross River teams. The position requires adaptability, sound relationship and decision-making skills, and the ability to navigate ambiguous situations in a fast-paced environment. The Relationship Manager is responsible for client retention and growth, understanding clients’ business models and performance, identifying opportunities, interpreting data, coordinating internally to resolve issues, supporting contract renewals and amendments, and deepening client relationships through regular reviews and periodic visits. The role also reviews accounts for AML/BSA compliance.

Requirements

At least 6 years of experience managing high-profile relationships in the fintech industry.
Ideally, knowledge of payments, card issuing, and banking services.
Experience with Banking as a Service, card issuing, or managing processors.
Agility and adaptability in a rapidly growing, constantly changing environment.
Cross-functional experience.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to achieve high-performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.

Nice To Haves

Current or previous experience working for a Banking as a Service provider, Program Manager, or Procurer.
Exposure to fintech components including pricing, payment networks, latest technologies, leading global players, emerging trends, and regulatory nuance.
Knowledge of BIN Sponsorship and Banking as a Service programs.
Understanding of how Cross River can deliver best-in-class solutions to grow its financial solutions offering.
Willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for a select group of Fintech Banking clients.
Own retention and growth KPIs by identifying organic and inorganic growth patterns.
Stay current on clients’ business models, strategies, and market performance, and identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities.
Interpret market, competitive, proprietary, and client-supplied data to assess client status and performance.
Advocate for clients within the bank and coordinate with other departments to resolve issues, implement changes, and integrate technology.
Work with legal counsel to draft renewal contracts and amendments to existing contracts.
Develop and nurture Cross River relationships at multiple levels, including senior management.
Conduct weekly or monthly reviews and quarterly business reviews (QBRs).
Review accounts to ensure AML/BSA regulations are being observed.
Conduct periodic client visits to deepen relationships and engage in strategic planning.