Manager of Industry Partnerships

Description

About Kinetic Advantage

Founded in 2020, Kinetic Advantage is an independent floorplan financing company built by experienced automotive industry leaders. We combine decades of industry knowledge with an entrepreneurial approach, innovative technology and a commitment to helping independent dealers succeed.

Our success is built on strong relationships with independent dealers, auto auctions and industry partners. Through transparent communication, responsive service and simple, innovative solutions, we help create exceptional experiences for our customers and team members while supporting the broader independent automotive industry.

Job Summary

The Manager of Industry Partnerships cultivates strategic connections with independent automobile dealer associations, independent auctions, industry organizations, conference organizers and other partners. The role broadens Kinetic Advantage’s industry presence, opens access to valuable contacts and conversations, identifies business development prospects, and ensures outstanding execution of sponsorships, events and community partnerships. Working closely with Sales, Operations, Marketing and Communications, this individual aligns industry involvement with Kinetic’s broader objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

- Create and execute an industry partnership strategy that deepens key connections, increases Kinetic’s visibility and supports meaningful business development.
- Cultivate trusted connections with state independent automobile dealer associations, NIADA, independent auctions, NAAA, IAG, conference organizers, auction leaders and other key industry stakeholders.
- Collaborate with Sales and Operations leaders to reinforce auction partnerships, supporting related field initiatives.
- Manage the annual industry conference, event and sponsorship calendar; recommend participation, investments, attendee assignments and initiatives that expand Kinetic’s influence.
- Negotiate sponsorships and partnership arrangements; coordinate contracting, approved budgets, reconciliation and fulfillment of commitments.
- Lead event participation, including internal coordination, logistics, on-site representation, stakeholder outreach and timely post-event follow-up.
- Proactively secure speaking engagements, panels, roundtables and other thought leadership forums for Kinetic leaders; coordinate with Marketing and Communications on presentation and event materials.
- Build the industry knowledge and presentation skills needed to represent Kinetic increasingly as a panelist, moderator and roundtable facilitator, assuming broader speaking responsibilities with experience.
- Serve as Kinetic’s industry liaison for publications and media inquiries, coordinating with Marketing and Communications on messaging and external representation.
- Gather industry and competitive intelligence through partner relationships; interpret developments and share relevant insights and recommendations with Kinetic leadership.
- Lead Kinetic’s Drive to Thrive volunteer program in collaboration with associations, auctions, nonprofit organizations and internal volunteers, emphasizing community impact and meaningful partner involvement.
- Assess industry investments using partnership progress, participation, prospects created, strategic relevance and appropriate business indicators; propose improvements and resource trade-offs.
- Maintain practical records of key partner contacts, commitments and account history to support continuity and coordinated outreach.
- Consistently fulfill Kinetic’s commitments and respond resourcefully to changing priorities and unexpected event or partner needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Two to four years of relevant experience in industry partnerships, association relations, dealer or auction relations, sponsorships, events or related external-facing roles.
- Experience in automotive retail, independent dealer associations, wholesale auctions, floorplan financing or adjacent automotive services strongly preferred.

Required Skills and Abilities

- Proven success establishing credible, long-term partnerships and earning trust across organizations and leadership levels.
- Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills, with the willingness and potential to grow as an industry panelist and facilitator.
- Proactive, self-directed approach with excellent follow-through, attention to detail and personal accountability.
- Strong planning, organization, negotiation and budget management skills, with the ability to balance strategy and hands-on execution.
- Sound judgment, resourcefulness and adaptability in fast-paced environments, including events with changing requirements.
- Business savvy and market awareness to recognize emerging opportunities and understand how Kinetic can create value.
- Ability to turn industry information into useful business insights and recommendations.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to maintain event, budget and relationship records.

Physical and Travel Requirements

- Frequent travel to industry conferences, auction events, association meetings and community activities, including occasional evenings and weekends.
- Ability to sit at a desk and work at a computer for extended periods; occasional work in outdoor event environments.
- Ability to move objects weighing up to 20 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

This job description reflects essential functions of this position but is subject to change at any time and does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or any other factors prohibited by law.