Partner Operations Manager Jobs in Barrington, IL

About the Role

As a Partner Operations Manager you will help operationalize and scale Steer's rapidly growing partner ecosystem across the automotive aftermarket—including parts/tire suppliers, shop management systems, marketing platforms, AI providers, and enterprise repair networks. Reporting directly to the Sr. Director of Partnerships, your mission is to turn strategic partner relationships into repeatable, high-performing growth engines. You will own the operational execution of our channel programs, integrations, and Directory-as-a-Service (DaaS) initiatives, ensuring our internal teams and external partners are aligned for long-term success.

This role is 100% remote and available to US-based candidates.  

You Are

• An Ecosystem Operator: Highly organized and process-driven, you thrive on turning complex inputs from partners, product teams, and industry trends into clear, actionable operational plans.
• A Collaborative Relationship Builder: You build deep trust with external partners and internal teams, taking time to understand mutual incentives and driving win-win outcomes.
• An Automotive & Tech Translator: You speak the language of the automotive aftermarket and seamlessly translate technical and strategic concepts so partners and internal teams can easily execute.
• A Scale-Minded Project Manager: You enjoy managing multiple cross-functional initiatives at once, taking ownership of the details that help turn high-level partnerships into tangible business results.

You Will

• Scale Partner Program Operations: Own end-to-end partner reporting (enrollments, incentives, and performance), coordinate announcements, manage enablements/assets, and streamline billing alongside RevOps and HubSpot teams.
• Drive Directory-as-a-Service (DaaS) Execution: Manage shop eligibility data, partner locator onboarding, and activation tracking, while coordinating cross-functionally with Sales, CS, and Marketing to convert partner-generated leads.
• Coordinate Integration Ecosystems: Manage day-to-day integration partner communications, align Product and Engineering teams on launch readiness, support beta testing, and maintain internal integration documentation.
• Manage Tech & Service Relationships: Act as the primary operational lead for marketing, loyalty, AI voice, and coaching partners—overseeing onboarding, issue resolution, and joint execution.
• Enable Internal Teams: Ensure Sales and Customer Success have the resources, collateral, and knowledge required to support and close partner-driven opportunities.

You Have

Must Have

• Industry & Ecosystem Experience: 4–7 years in partnerships, channel operations, or ecosystem management within the automotive aftermarket (automotive tech, repair SaaS, distribution, or repair networks).
• Domain Knowledge: Deep understanding of how independent repair shops operate, evaluate software, acquire customers, and purchase parts.
• Cross-Functional Project Management: Proven ability to coordinate complex, multi-party initiatives across Sales, CS, Product, Marketing, and RevOps.
• Operations & Systems Acumen: Strong organizational skills with hands-on experience using CRMs and reporting tools (HubSpot preferred).
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time. 

Nice to Have

• Aftermarket Network: Existing relationships or a strong network within the automotive aftermarket industry.
• SaaS & Integration Familiarity: Direct experience with repair shop management systems, automotive SaaS integrations, or technology ecosystems.
• Channel & Marketplace Programs: Experience supporting channel partner programs, marketplace platforms, or locator/DaaS networks.

Interview Process

       1- Initial Screen – 30 min with Lead Recruiter

       2 - Hiring Manager Interview – 45 min with Sr. Director of Partnerships

       3 - Case Study Presentation – 60 min Assignment

       4 - Cross Functional Interviews (2) - 30 min with two senior stakeholders.                                                     

            Problem Solving Exercise – 60 min with Head of People

*We also require completion of the Wonderlic Assessment before the end of the process. This is done independently and takes about 20–30 min.

We Offer

• 100% remote work environment
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance within 30 days (100% employer-paid medical)
• Equity package
• Flexible PTO with a 15-day minimum
• Generous Parental Leave
• FSA and HSA options
• 401(k)
• Growth & Wellness Stipend
• WFH Equipment
• Chance to work with the latest technology
• A collaborative, high-ownership culture with clear opportunities for career growth