Partner Network Director

Windward is a leading maritime AI company, offering advanced risk management, intelligence, and logistics solutions. Our state-of-the-art platform utilizes cutting-edge AI technology to provide actionable insights, driving growth and transformation within the global trade industry. We are a dynamic, growing SaaS company dedicated to delivering high-quality data solutions to our customers. Our platform relies on accurate, reliable data to provide exceptional value, and we are looking for a talented Director of Partner Network to join our team.

The Partner Network Director will be responsible for securing new data sources to support the business and managing existing information vendors. This key position reports directly to the VP Growth and plays a critical role in our data strategy and partnerships ecosystem.

• Develop and execute our data partnership strategy across all verticals we serve, identifying strategic opportunities to enhance our data offerings.
• Build and manage relationships with maritime companies and other key data partners.
• Align data strategy to complement the company's corporate strategy and business objectives.
• Identify, qualify, develop and drive supply partnerships with system integrators, distributors, consultants, industry influencers and other channel partners.
• Manage the entire onboarding process including data testing, contract negotiation, go-live planning, and ongoing cost management.
• Negotiate and structure complex data licensing agreements, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with colleagues in Product Management, R&D, Marketing, Services, and Sales to support Product Vision and ensure sales collateral, launch, pricing, and joint marketing efforts are planned and executed.
• Manage internal and external channel programs and coordinate internal resources and communication.
• Provide data training where required to educate and motivate commercial teams.
• Ensure data vendors have up-to-date knowledge of new products, features, roadmap and other updates.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships at the executive level with key vendors.
• Manage third party contracts with our legal team.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows to build our brand and identify new partnership opportunities.
• Build a positive collaborative network across all teams in the organization.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in the maritime information market, with a deep understanding of industry data sources, providers, and trends.
• Proven track record in business development, vendor/partnership management, or similar roles within the maritime technology sector.
• Strong negotiation skills with experience in structuring and closing complex data licensing agreements.
• Experience in a PE backed company or equivalent scaleups.
• Excellent relationship-building abilities with stakeholders at all levels, from technical teams to C-suite executives.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify valuable data supplier opportunities and align them with business objectives.
• Understanding of data privacy regulations (GDPR, etc.) and their implications for data partnerships.
• Willingness to travel (approximately 10%) to meet with data partners and attend industry events.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in business, maritime studies, or related field preferred.
• Experience with AIS data, vessel data, vessel ownership, weather and other maritime datasets.
• Knowledge of AI and machine learning applications in the maritime sector.
• Understanding of API integrations and data infrastructure.
• Previous commercial experience at a maritime technology company, data provider, or maritime related company.
• Strong network within the maritime industry.

This position will be based in our London office (Hybrid role, 3 days a week in the office).