Lead - Strategic and Technology Partnerships

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies

2d • $152,200 - $237,950

About The Position

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is a joint venture between two industry leaders with a clear vision for automotive’s next chapter. From operating systems to zonal controllers to cloud and connectivity solutions, we’re addressing the challenges of electric vehicles through technology that will set the standards for software-defined vehicles around the world. The road to the future is uncharted. By combining our expertise across connectivity, AI, security and more, we’ll map a new way forward. Working together, we’ll create a future that’s more connected, more intelligent, more sustainable for everyone.

As the Lead, Strategic and Technology Partnerships, you will serve as a foundational member of the team and a key execution partner to the Global Director. This is not a commercial sales or traditional account management role; it is a highly strategic, platform-centric position focused on building a dynamic technology ecosystem. Your mission is to proactively identify, cultivate, and manage high-value alliances with large technology enterprises and emerging startups to expand RVT's core technology pillars: Operating Systems/SDV Platforms, Zonal Architecture, Cloud/Telematics/Connectivity Solutions, In-Vehicle Intelligence (AI, Security, Autonomy), and Infotainment/Ecosystem Applications (Mapping, Gaming, User Experience). You will play a critical role in shifting the industry away from a reactive "feature-request" model, instead curating a proactive, "Market-First" Strategic Catalog of innovative, scalable software solutions.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience with a proven track record in strategic partnerships, corporate development, or software/digital ecosystem building. Experience within a Tier-1 software ecosystem, cloud platform, or deep tech environment is highly preferred.
• Deep familiarity with at least two of RVT's core technology pillars: Operating Systems/SDV platforms, Zonal/E/E Architecture, Cloud/Connectivity solutions, In-Vehicle Intelligence (AI, Security, Autonomy), or Infotainment/Ecosystem applications.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex contract negotiations, specifically dealing with software licensing models, SaaS delivery architectures, affiliate agreements, or multi-party commercial structures.
• Strong comfort level translating technical infrastructure (APIs, SDKs, Android Automotive/AAOS, vehicle data protocols, and over-the-air/OTA update pipelines) into business structures, coupled with a solid understanding of the legal landscapes surrounding tech partnerships (IP rights and data privacy).
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to navigate complex, multi-layered organizations (such as JVs and global parent OEMs) and build consensus among diverse executive and technical stakeholders.
• A results-driven professional with a growth mindset who thrives in high levels of ambiguity and complexity. Self-directed, pragmatic, and highly collaborative.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify, vet, and secure strategic technology partnerships with major tech companies and disruptive startups across RVT’s core technical pillars. Position RVT as the premium platform partner of choice for emerging tech.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product, software, and architecture teams to transition from individual OEM feature-customization to a scalable model. Help manage a forward-thinking product catalog spanning OS, cloud, and infotainment domains that allow platform customers to integrate technology with speed and scale.
• Lead the commercial development lifecycle for technology partners. Structure and negotiate complex commercial terms, high-stakes master service agreements (MSAs), and affiliate frameworks optimized for global volumes to maximize cost savings and capture cross-functional synergies.
• Architect technology partnership frameworks that unify software and connectivity solutions across multiple vehicle platforms (eg. Rivian, Volkswagen, Audi, Scout), actively eliminating engineering redundancies and maximizing efficiency.
• Partner closely with internal legal and product security teams to navigate complex international antitrust, intellectual property (IP) rights, and data privacy frameworks (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) to ensure all partner integrations remain compliant and secure.
• Continually run "build, buy, or partner" analyses to assess adjacent market opportunities, tracking global automotive tech trends, evolving SaaS models, and digital-based innovations.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Eligible to participate in our annual company performance bonus program
• Eligible for equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
• Comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, wellbeing, and financial future for full-time employees
• Health coverage
• Retirement savings
• Time off
• Family planning programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior