Strategic Partnerships Manager - AI/API

Mercury is seeking a technically fluent partnerships leader to own its presence in the AI and developer ecosystem. This role combines business development and developer relations, focusing on strategic partnerships that integrate Mercury's financial infrastructure into AI and developer tools.

Responsibilities

Hunt and Close New Partnerships

• Identify, target, and close high-leverage partnerships across the AI and developer ecosystem, including AI coding assistants, agent frameworks, and developer communities.
• Manage the full partnership lifecycle from sourcing and outreach to negotiation, integration scoping, and activation.
• Establish Mercury's presence in developer communities through conference attendance, speaking engagements, and online participation.

Build the Playbook

• Define and execute Mercury's go-to-market strategy for the AI and developer ecosystem.
• Develop joint go-to-market plans with key partners, including co-marketing, co-selling, and integration launch strategies.
• Provide feedback from the developer ecosystem to inform Mercury's roadmap and partnership strategy.

Navigate the AI Ecosystem

• Build Mercury's presence as a financial infrastructure partner in the AI-native landscape, focusing on MCP integrations, AI platforms, and developer tools.
• Position Mercury as the default financial layer for AI-native businesses and platforms.
• Identify emerging distribution channels and opportunities for Mercury.

Requirements

• Technical foundation: understanding of APIs, integration complexity, and credibility with engineers and CTOs.
• Hunting mindset: proactive identification and closure of partnerships.
• Embedded in the developer world: knowledge of AI and developer ecosystems, platforms, communities, and influencers.
• Commercial thinking: ability to structure deals and drive conversations to signed agreements.
• Strong communication: effective presentation, writing, and product meeting skills.
• Entrepreneurial spirit: adding value before asking for anything, working with early-stage founders and AI teams.

Nice to Have

• Experience in fintech, developer-facing partnerships, Developer Relations, or solutions engineering at an API-first company.

Compensation

• Competitive base salary, equity (stock options/RSUs), and benefits.
• Target new hire base salary ranges:
• US employees in New York City, Los Angeles, Seattle, or the San Francisco Bay Area: $180,900 - $226,100
• US employees outside of these areas: $162,800 - $203,500