Director, Higher Education Strategy and Business Development

CivicPlus, LLC

18d•$119,100 - $181,100

About The Position

The Director of Higher Education Strategy and Business Development is responsible for defining and executing CivicPlus’ growth strategy within the Higher Education market. This role leads the development of a focused go-to-market approach that positions CivicPlus as a trusted digital experience partner for colleges and universities seeking to better engage students, faculty, staff, and their broader communities. As a strategic individual contributor, this leader partners closely with the CRO, Sales Leadership, Marketing, Product, and Customer Success teams to expand CivicPlus’ presence in Higher Education. The Director will identify market opportunities, shape long-term account strategies, cultivate executive-level relationships, and drive sustainable revenue growth through thoughtful, consultative engagement. This role blends market strategy, executive relationship development, and disciplined business development execution to accelerate CivicPlus’ impact across Higher Education institutions nationwide. About CivicPlus At CivicPlus, we strive to bring our company vision to life through innovation and collaboration. Supported by approachable leadership and transparent communication, we're empowered to make an impact on local government and the residents they serve. Grow your career alongside great people, where authenticity is welcome, successes are celebrated, and potential is nurtured.

Requirements

10+ years of senior leadership experience in SaaS or enterprise technology, with a record of driving strategic growth in complex markets.
Proven ability to architect and scale a new vertical or emerging market, including market entry strategy, early adopter acquisition, and sustainable revenue expansion
Demonstrated success closing complex, multi-stakeholder enterprise deals, engaging C-suite, cabinet, IT, procurement, and governing boards.
Executive presence with a consultative, strategic advisory approach, guiding institutions through modernization and digital transformation initiatives.
Data-driven operator with CRM and forecasting expertise (Salesforce or similar).
Willingness to travel (20–30%)

Responsibilities

Develop and own CivicPlus’ Higher Education growth strategy, including segmentation, target account prioritization, value positioning, and multi-year expansion planning.
Identify emerging trends, funding models, regulatory considerations, and digital transformation priorities across colleges and universities.
Translate market insights into actionable go-to-market initiatives that align with CivicPlus’ broader growth objectives.
Lead enterprise-level sales efforts across Higher Education institutions through consultative, outcome-focused engagement.
Build and execute strategic account plans that drive long-term partnerships rather than transactional sales.
Establish trusted advisor relationships with university executives (Presidents, CIOs, CMOs, Enrollment Leaders, Student Affairs, IT, and Communications leaders).
Drive pipeline development and maintain accurate forecasting aligned to quarterly and annual revenue targets.
Represent CivicPlus at Higher Education conferences, industry associations, and thought leadership events.
Cultivate strong relationships with strategic partners and influencers within the Higher Education ecosystem.
Position CivicPlus as a mission-aligned partner focused on improving digital access, transparency, engagement, and operational efficiency.
Partner with Product and Innovation teams to ensure Higher Education market needs inform roadmap priorities.
Collaborate with Marketing to refine messaging, case studies, and campaigns specific to Higher Education audiences.
Work with Customer Success to identify expansion opportunities and ensure strong long-term institutional outcomes.
Maintain a deep understanding of the Higher Education technology landscape, including digital experience platforms, CMS solutions, student engagement tools, and compliance considerations.
Conduct competitive analysis and adjust strategy to ensure CivicPlus remains differentiated in value, service, and impact.
Provide ongoing executive-level insights and recommendations regarding investment, positioning, and growth strategy in the Higher Education vertical.