Manager of Technical Partnerships

Summary

Join Twilio's Emerging Technology and Innovation team as the next Manager of Technical Partnerships. This role focuses on identifying, cultivating, and scaling external technical partnerships to shape the future of communications technology. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to accelerate innovation and build a pipeline of future initiatives. Success is measured by the creation of a steady pipeline of validated future bets and the elevation of the organization’s long-term innovation capacity. The position requires a strong understanding of software, APIs, cloud platforms, and emerging technologies. The role is remote but requires occasional travel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (Computer Science, Engineering, etc.) or equivalent; MBA or advanced degree a plus
• 5+ years in technology partnerships, business development, technical program management, or related fields
• Strong understanding of software, APIs, cloud platforms, and emerging technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, etc.), with the ability to converse at a deep technical level
• Demonstrated track record of sourcing, negotiating, and executing technical partnerships, pilots, or co-development initiatives
• Passion for innovation, with the ability to balance blue-sky thinking with rigorous assessment of technical and commercial viability
• Exceptional communication, relationship management, and stakeholder engagement skills; proven ability to influence technical and executive stakeholders
• Comfort in ambiguity and fast-paced environments; entrepreneurial spirit and bias for action

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategy for technical partnerships aligned with Twilio’s Horizon 3 innovation priorities (Next-gen communications, privacy/identity tech, and more)
• Proactively scout, evaluate, and engage with startups, research labs, emerging platforms, and established technology leaders to identify high-potential partnership opportunities
• Assess the technical value, feasibility, and integration potential of prospective partner solutions
• Cultivate deep, trusted relationships with external technical partners (startups, open source projects, universities, etc.), acting as Twilio’s primary point of contact
• Collaborate on joint proofs-of-concept, co-investment pilots, and complex integrations that accelerate learning and market entry
• Stay ahead of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor activities; provide synthesized recommendations for investment and partnership
• Represent Twilio at industry events, conferences, and innovation forums, evangelizing our vision and cultivating partnership opportunities

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong network among startups, VCs, and research communities in relevant domains
• Experience in early-stage product/technology incubation or venture studio models
• Prior experience in large-scale communications, CPaaS, or SaaS environments

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Generous time off
• Ample parental and wellness leave
• Healthcare
• A retirement savings program