Program Manager, Strategic Partnerships – LegalTech

Smokeball - Legal Software

63d•$130,000 - $170,000•Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a Program Manager, Strategic Partnerships, to lead the development and expansion of new partner programs. This role involves managing the execution and strategy of over 30 state and local bar association relationships. The ideal candidate will possess an entrepreneurial and creative mindset with prior experience in building and managing partner programs within the LegalTech or Legal AI partnerships sector. Responsibilities include nurturing existing partner relationships, driving new opportunities, and acting as the architect for an innovative program. This player-coach role requires someone who is opportunity-driven, comfortable with ambiguity and reprioritization, and capable of rapidly translating strategy into measurable results. The position is open to remote candidates or those in the Chicagoland area, with a hybrid model (2 days/week in office) for local candidates.

Requirements

5+ years of demonstrated experience building and/or managing partner programs in the LegalTech, Legal AI, or the bar association space.
A deep understanding of the legal technology and Legal AI space.
Strong familiarity with commercial contracts and contract negotiation.
Strong communication and presentation skills.

Nice To Haves

Bar association partner programs experience is preferred.
Experience building partner programs from scratch in tech is a plus, including managing a team.
JD or legal experience is a plus.
Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and project management tools is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop and evolve partner program strategy and areas of focus.
Drive the creation of new partner programs with bar associations and other key organizations.
Identify strategic opportunities to build new programs.
Write and pitch proposals to potential new partners.
Drive negotiations with partners and contract review.
Create new program operations and processes, developing a scalable playbook for long-term growth of partner programs and teams.
Create and maintain strong relationships with key partners to drive success and create innovative opportunities.
Lead negotiations and creation of terms with key partners, reviewing and approving contracts, redlines, and setting commercial terms.
Establish partner targets for referral quality, program participation, and revenue contribution; monitor and report against those metrics.
Liaise with marketing, education, and training teams to design campaigns for partner adoption and promotion that lead to measurable revenue and brand awareness.
Track and update partner ROI reports and analyze results regularly to determine trends and growth opportunities.