Manager, Industry Partnerships & Events (Automotive)

Kinetic Advantage, LLC; Carmel (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Kinetic Advantage is seeking a Manager of Industry Partnerships to expand our presence with independent dealer associations, auctions, and industry groups. You will cultivate high-impact partnerships, manage sponsorships and events, and coordinate with Sales, Operations, Marketing and Communications to align industry activity with corporate goals.

The role requires 2–4 years in partnerships, strong communication and negotiation skills, and frequent travel for conferences and events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 2–4 years experience in industry partnerships, association relations, dealer or auction relations, sponsorships or related roles.
• Experience in automotive retail, independent dealer associations, wholesale auctions, floorplan financing or adjacent services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement an industry partnership strategy to deepen connections and drive business development.
• Cultivate relationships with state dealer associations, NIADA, independent auctions, and other industry stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Sales and Operations to reinforce auction partnerships and field initiatives.
• Manage the annual conference, event and sponsorship calendar and related budgets.
• Negotiate sponsorships and contracts; oversee budgets, reconciliations, and fulfillment.
• Lead event participation including on-site coordination and post-event follow-up.
• Secure speaking engagements and coordinate with Marketing on materials.
• Grow industry knowledge to represent Kinetic as a panelist and moderator over time.
• Coordinate with Marketing on messaging for industry publications and media inquiries.
• Gather intelligence from partners and share insights with leadership.

Skills

Partnership development

Relationship building

Negotiation

Budget management

Project management

Communication

Public speaking

Industry insights

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Kinetic Advantage is seeking a Manager of Industry Partnerships to expand our presence with independent dealer associations, auctions, and industry groups. You will cultivate high-impact partnerships, manage sponsorships and events, and coordinate with Sales, Operations, Marketing and Communications to align industry activity with corporate goals.

The role requires 2–4 years in partnerships, strong communication and negotiation skills, and frequent travel for conferences and events.