Business Development Lead, China, Duolingo English Test

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About the role

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an alternative to traditional high-stakes testing — through a Duolingo-style experience: convenient, fast, and affordable. Students interested in studying abroad can certify their English with the Duolingo English Test instead of other standardized tests like the TOEFL and IELTS. We are now accepted by 5,000+ higher education institutions worldwide. Using AI and remote proctoring, we enable students to take the test online, on-demand, anywhere in the world. If you love making a difference in education through technology, this is your place.

We are looking for a strategic, resourceful, and analytical leader to drive partnerships with key players in the study abroad and consumer tech ecosystem. You will define DET’s go-to-market partnership strategy in China and take a structured and proactive approach to implementation. The ideal candidate fluidly toggles between strategy and execution and thrives in a fast feedback-loop environment.

Reporting to the Head of Global Growth for the Duolingo English Test, this is a position based in Duolingo’s Beijing office. You will work closely with team members located across Asia as well as in the US, with regular business travel expected.

You will...

• Define a partnership strategy in China, including mapping partners in the study abroad ecosystem, identifying engagement tactics, and prioritizing for execution
• Pursue, negotiate and drive high-impact strategic and commercial partnerships
• Evaluate the economic and strategic business case of partnerships and new initiatives
• Develop scalable global programs and offerings that incentivize and enable partners, working closely with cross-functional teams and internal collaborators
• Explore expansion into new use cases and markets

You have...

• Demonstrated track record of achievement in fast-paced, global work environments, collaborating with cross-functional and executive stakeholders
• 8+ years of relevant work experience across partnerships, business development, corporate development, consulting, or finance
• Ability to combine critical thinking with rapid iteration, hands-on execution
• Excellent communication and analytical skills
• Self-starter capable of working across timezones and independently
• Willingness to immerse yourself in the study abroad ecosystem, and explore way to collaborate with educational agents, test-prep organizations and other organizations
• Willingness to travel (as frequently as monthly) across China and to the US

Exceptional candidates will have...

• MBA from top-tier program
• Partnerships/partner-marketing experience at a leading global tech platform
• Study abroad experience at the undergraduate or graduate level, and an intrinsic interest in redefining the traditional English testing model

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We will do everything we can within reason to make sure that your interview takes place in an environment that fairly and accurately assesses your skills. If you need assistance or accommodation, please contact your recruiter.

Duolingo is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

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