Partnership Development Manager

1st for Awarding (previously 1st for EPA)

. Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, including training providers, colleges and universities .

Posted 9/18/2026full-timeDarlington • United KingdomMid-LevelSenior💰 £28,000 - £30,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates a thorough understanding of Apprenticeship Assessment and EPA, with proven experience in business growth and client management within the apprenticeship sector. Capable of delivering training, managing multiple relationships, and utilizing data-driven decision-making to support strategic initiatives.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Apprenticeship Assessment ExpertiseBusiness Growth ExperienceClient Relationship ManagementTraining Delivery SkillsData-Driven Decision Making

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Business DevelopmentRisk AssessmentOnboardingClient Portfolio ManagementStrategic Contribution

Soft Skills

Strong Communication SkillsOrganizational SkillsTime Management SkillsAttention to DetailProblem-Solving Skills

Tools & Technologies

Office 365SharePointPowerBICRM SystemsHubSpot

Industry Keywords

EPAOApprenticeships LandscapeOfqual RegulationsCustomer EngagementSector Challenges

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, including training providers, colleges and universities
Build new business opportunities, nurture leads and grow accounts
Risk assess new business opportunities and customers to mitigate potential issues
Work closely with the Head of Partnerships and colleagues to support growth plans
Identify sector challenges and suggest ways to provide further support to partners
Deliver onboarding and training sessions to new customers
Support and co-host customer webinars, delivering training and presenting to small groups online
Respond to customer queries via email, phone or video call
Conduct regular check-ins and review meetings with existing partners
Attend customer meetings, industry events and conferences as required
Manage workload across multiple priorities
Maintain accurate records, activity logs and dashboards using the CRM
Keep informed about sector changes, assessment offerings, Ofqual regulations and best practice

Requirements

What you’ll need

Thorough understanding of Apprenticeship Assessment and EPA, and the apprenticeships landscape
Experience working in a similar role within an assessment organisation (or EPAO) or across the wider apprenticeship sector, managing a portfolio of clients
Proven track record in business growth or development
Confidence contributing to strategic conversations or service improvements
Commercial mindset, with the ability to spot opportunities and manage internal and external expectations
Ability to listen, understand customer and stakeholder issues and work with others to identify practical solutions
Confidence delivering training and presenting to small groups online
Strong organisation and time management skills, with accuracy and attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple relationships and deadlines
Good use of Office 365, SharePoint and PowerBI
Strong communication, presentation and client relationship skills
Data-driven mindset, able to make informed, factual decisions and communicate accurate information
Experience working in a target-driven environment (desirable)
Proficiency across systems such as Proficient and HubSpot (desirable)
Suitable home working space and strong internet connection
Ability to undergo identity verification, reference checks, appropriate online searches, and employment history review

Benefits

Comp & perks

Primarily remote role with built-in flexibility
Necessary IT equipment provided: laptop, monitor and accessories
Monthly in-person co-working days with lunch provided
25 days’ holiday plus 8 bank holidays
8 Wellbeing Hours per year
Flexible working pattern agreed before start date
Supportive, purpose-driven work environment