Director, Carrier & Connectivity Partnerships

About the role:

We are pioneering a new category of autonomous, network connected drones with our latest flagship product, the X10, and Telecom partnerships have become a critical strategic priority. We're seeking a passionate and strategic Carrier Telecom Partnerships Manager to spearhead collaborations with leading telecom providers, ensuring seamless network integration and regulatory compliance for our innovative drone operations.

Location: This is a hybrid position that requires 3 days/week onsite at our HQ in San Mateo, CA.

How you'll make an impact:

• Work with our customers to understand their data needs and help craft our carrier partnerships strategy
• Develop and implement strategic partnerships with major carrier telecom providers across the US and North America, and growing internationally over time
• Help carriers develop a win-win business case to get them excited about 5G-connected drones on their network
• Negotiate mutually beneficial agreements for network access, data connectivity, SIM card provisioning, billing and data plans for drone operations
• Collaborate with engineering and regulatory teams to ensure drone systems comply with relevant carrier network specifications and regulations
• Manage the technical integration of drone systems with carrier networks, including data security and privacy protocols
• Collaborate with the team on backup and failover strategies for network connectivity
• Monitor and analyze network performance data to identify & address connectivity issues
• Stay abreast of evolving carrier network technologies and regulations, proactively adapting strategies and partnerships
• Build strong relationships with key decision-makers at carrier telecom providers, fostering trust and understanding
• Represent Skydio at industry events and conferences, promoting our technology and partnerships

What makes you a good fit:

• 10+ years of experience in telecom network partnerships and/or (IoT or drones) 
• Proven track record of successfully negotiating and managing complex contracts with major carriers (in North America and ideally other countries as well)
• Understanding of carrier network infrastructure, protocols, and regulations
• Familiarity with (or willingness to learn about) wireless technologies (e.g. bitrates, desense, etc) in order to be able to work with our wireless teams on meeting carrier certification requirements, and assessing overall system performance
• You’re technical enough to manage the carrier certification process (with support from engineering of course, but you’re managing the overall program)
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelor's degree in Eng, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or related field

Nice to haves: 

• Experience working with large carriers 
• Experience at a growth-stage start-up or large technology company
• Experience working in a drone + carrier context around advanced capabilities like 5G dynamic slicing, increased priority and reduced latency
• Experience working with IoT technologies 
• MBA or equivalent experience

Compensation Range: The annual base salary range for this position is  $170,000 - $220,000*. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. In addition to base salary, Skydio full-time employees are eligible to enroll in our benefit plans and take advantage of a variety of incentives and stipends. For some positions the pay may be dependent upon the individual's regional location.

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