Director - Strategic Partnerships

AI & Cloud Strategic Partner Director - Core42 – Abu Dhabi

About Us

Core42, a leader in AI-powered cloud and digital infrastructure, is driving transformative technology solutions globally. Leveraging advanced resources and partnerships, Core42 empowers clients to harness sovereign AI infrastructure, especially in sectors with stringent regulatory needs. With a mission to redefine digital transformation, we combine sovereign capabilities with scalable, high-performance compute infrastructure, positioning itself at the forefront of AI innovation in the Middle East and beyond.

The opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and visionary AI and Cloud Strategic Partnerships Director to lead the development and execution of high-impact and strategic partnerships within the AI and cloud technology landscape. This role is pivotal in shaping our strategic direction by building and nurturing relationships with key industry players, including cloud hyperscalers and AI innovators. The successful candidate will combine technical acumen, business strategy, and relationship expertise to drive ecosystem growth, enhance our competitive edge, and deliver transformative value to our customers.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic partnership roadmap focused on AI and cloud technologies to support long-term business objectives.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with top-tier partners, including AI and cloud technology providers (e.g., nVidia, Qualcomm, Dell, Oracle etc.).
• Lead the negotiation of complex partnership agreements, ensuring alignment with company vision, profitability, and innovation goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, product, marketing, sales) to integrate partner solutions and routes to market into our offerings and go-to-market plans.
• Building a governance framework for prioritization and progression of highest value intitiatives
• Develop and execute joint go-to-market strategies, including co-branded solutions, marketing campaigns, and sales enablement programs.
• Analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging technologies to position partnerships for maximum impact.
• Drive measurable outcomes from partnerships, including revenue growth, customer acquisition, technology advancements and ecosystem expansion.
• Provide strategic insights to senior leadership on partnership performance, opportunities, and risks
• Act as the primary point of contact for partners, resolving issues and ensuring a high level of satisfaction and engagement.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, partner summits, and executive meetings to strengthen our brand and network.
  
  

What We're Looking For

What we’re looking for

• Required skills / qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technology, or a related field
• 7+ years of experience in strategic partnerships, business development, or alliance management within the tech sector.
• Knowledge of AI technologies (e.g., machine learning, generative AI, data analytics) and cloud infrastructure (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS).
• Proven success in building and managing tech partnerships
• Exceptional strategic thinking, with the ability to translate technical capabilities into business value.
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with a track record of influencing senior stakeholders.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, innovative environment with shifting priorities.
• Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and familiarity with tools like Salesforce, Tableau, or similar platforms.
• Preferred skills / qualifications
• Direct experience in AI solution development or cloud architecture.
• Established relationships within the AI and cloud ecosystem.
• Strong experience of building process and governance in a partnership’s context
• Leadership experience in fast moving industries
  
  

What Working At Core42 Offers

We’re proud to be a certified Great Place To Work and a dynamic company in a growth phase. With a diverse team of 1,100+ employees from 68 nationalities, we foster an inclusive, innovative and collaborative environment. At Core42, we foster a culture grounded in trust, accountability and high performance. We are united by our values: Grit, where we overcome challenges with resilience and determination, Passion, which drives us to pursue excellence in everything we do, and Impact, as we aim to inspire progress and create meaningful change. Our team members thrive in an environment where each person’s contributions propel us forward, and together, we commit to achieving extraordinary results.

• Competitive Salary: We offer an attractive salary package based on your skills and experience
• Yearly Bonus: In recognition of your contributions, you will receive a performance-based annual bonus
• Exclusive Discount Cards: Access special benefits with Esaad and Fazaa cards, offering discounts across a wide range of services
• Premium Family Insurance: We provide comprehensive health coverage, including dental, vision and life insurance, ensuring the well-being of you and your family
• Learning & Development: We offer access to top-tier learning platforms to help you grow in your career. Learn at your own pace with unlimited access to premium courses.