Investment & Partnership Manager
Posted Updated
Description
At Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact.
Position Overview
The Investment and Partnerships Manager is a seasoned professional individual contributor responsible for independently advancing Mercedes-Benz's venture investment and strategic partnership activities in North America. The role identifies, evaluates and executes investment and collaboration opportunities across digitization, electrification and other priority technology areas. Working with limited supervision, this position manages defined projects and processes, coordinates cross-functional diligence and proof-of-concept activities, and influences internal and external stakeholders on operational approaches, practices and decisions. The role applies advanced investment, partnership and market knowledge to resolve difficult and sometimes complex issues and deliver outcomes with significant impact on departmental results.
Relocation assistance (domestic or international) is not provided for this position.
Job Responsibilities\:
- Independently manage defined investment and strategic partnership projects from opportunity identification through evaluation, execution and ongoing tracking, with significant impact on departmental objectives.
- Partner with business-unit and technical stakeholders to identify product or capability gaps, evaluate build, buy, invest or partner options, and define target-selection criteria.
- Screen and assess companies, technologies and potential cooperation partners for strategic fit, commercial viability and readiness for long-term collaboration.
- Lead or coordinate commercial, financial, strategic and technical due diligence workstreams with relevant internal subject-matter experts.
- Execute venture investment, M&A and divestment analyses, including market research, financial modeling, valuation support and preparation of investment or decision memoranda.
- Plan and manage proof-of-concept and pilot activities with internal engineering, product, procurement, legal and finance teams and external partners; review progress, risks and work products.
- Develop and negotiate appropriate engagement and cooperation structures with start-ups, technology companies, venture capital firms and other ecosystem partners.
- Monitor technology, market and investment trends and translate findings into practical recommendations for internal stakeholders.
- Build and maintain relationships with founders, investors, advisors and industry participants, and influence stakeholders within and outside the function regarding project practices, priorities and next steps.
- Improve investment and partnership processes, tools and reporting to increase the effectiveness and consistency of the job area.
- Coordinate the implementation and tracking of portfolio investments and collaboration activities, escalating complex issues and recommending solutions as appropriate.
- Provide guidance, review and coaching to less-experienced professionals or project contributors when assigned.