Business Development Specialist, Scholars Network

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Business Development Specialist, Scholars Network based in the United States.

This role plays a key part in driving the growth of mission-driven partnerships between higher education institutions, health systems, and employers. You will support the full business development lifecycle, ensuring that sales operations, communications, and pipeline activities are well-organized and executed with precision. Working closely with sales leadership, you will help shape proposals, maintain CRM accuracy, and coordinate key touchpoints across multiple stakeholders. The position blends analytical research, commercial support, and content creation to enable stronger, faster, and more effective deal execution. You will also contribute to outreach strategy, competitive analysis, and partner engagement materials. This is a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment where organization, communication, and initiative directly support expanding access to education-to-employment pathways.

• Maintain and optimize CRM systems by ensuring accurate pipeline staging, updated notes, and clear follow-up tracking.
• Research key decision-makers and stakeholders at target organizations ahead of outreach and sales engagements.
• Create pitch decks, sales collateral, spreadsheets, and supporting materials for meetings and funnel activities.
• Support the drafting of proposals, RFP responses, and basic financial modeling, leveraging AI tools where appropriate.
• Join sales calls to capture insights, document next steps, and support ongoing communication tracking.
• Draft and manage prospect communications, ensuring timely follow-ups across multiple sales leaders.
• Conduct market, competitor, and industry research, including maintaining pricing and ROI benchmarking data.
• Support sales events, conferences, and outreach initiatives, including preparation, scheduling, and post-event follow-up.
• Coordinate with outreach vendors and assist in executing top-of-funnel engagement strategies.

Requirements:

• Experience in business development, sales support, operations, or a related commercial role in a fast-paced or high-growth environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain pipeline discipline.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience drafting client-facing materials and proposals.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Slides, Sheets) and Microsoft Excel; experience with CRM tools such as HubSpot is a plus.
• Familiarity with workflow automation or AI tools (e.g., Claude or similar) to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to engage across different levels of seniority.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail and the ability to interpret data for commercial decision-making.
• Proactive, self-directed approach with the ability to manage up and support cross-functional execution.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary range of $70,000 – $80,000 annually.
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match and potential equity opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, sick leave, and parental leave.
• Work-from-home flexibility with remote-first setup within the United States.
• Annual education stipend and learning resources to support professional growth.
• Wellness programs, employee assistance resources, and subscriptions to mental wellbeing apps.
• Additional perks including technology support, connectivity stipend, and employee discount programs.