Global Lead, Business Development & Licensing (BDL)

Global Lead, Business Development & Licensing (BDL)

Gates Foundation

October 14, 2026November 28, 2026SeattleUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. It was founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives. The foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees, reflecting the varied global populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

Job Overview:
The Global Lead for Business Development & Licensing (BDL) will play a crucial role in supporting the foundation's Program Strategy Teams (PSTs) by identifying and evaluating strategic business partners and licensing opportunities that align with the foundation's charitable goals. This position involves coordinating and negotiating access to key assets and opportunities with both new and existing partners. The Global Lead will work closely with program teams and subject matter experts to develop appropriate agreement structures that integrate the technical risks associated with innovation projects. The role requires a leader who can effectively partner with stakeholders focused on digital partnerships with technology companies, ensuring that innovative solutions reach underserved populations in target geographies. The position is based in Seattle, WA, and reports directly to the Director of BD&L.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Global Lead will be responsible for structuring and co-leading agreement transactions with PSTs, guiding innovative digital solutions from concept to commercialization. This includes leveraging digital experience to develop and execute business development strategies that align with PST priorities. The role involves evolving the foundation's global access terms, negotiating agreements with multinational technology companies, and facilitating high-quality opportunity assessments and due diligence reviews. The Global Lead will act as the point of contact for agreement transaction teams, ensuring effective collaboration with internal functions such as Legal, Finance, and Product Launch Teams. Additionally, the role requires managing multiple business opportunities across PSTs, driving timely decision-making, and supporting the development of the foundation's business development capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant leadership experience in business development and licensing, with at least 10 years in a relevant digital technology sector. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required, with an advanced degree (MBA or PhD) preferred. Experience in multiple functional areas within a multinational technology company is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of leading and negotiating successful technology-related transactions. Candidates should have experience negotiating with multinational corporations and a background in AI/digital initiatives, particularly in aligning partnership incentives across nonprofit and for-profit entities.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with a preference for candidates holding an advanced degree such as an MBA or PhD. The educational background should ideally include studies related to business development, technology, or a relevant field that supports the foundation's mission.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of demonstrated experience in business development and licensing within the digital technology industry. Preference will be given to those with experience in various functional areas of a multinational technology company, including business development, product management, and commercialization. A significant track record of leading successful technology-related transactions is essential, along with experience in negotiating agreements with multinational corporations and partnerships in low- and middle-income countries.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international scope of the role. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the foundation's target geographies.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and requires unrestricted work authorization in the United States, as the foundation does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. The salary range for this position is between $238,400 to $369,400 USD, with higher ranges for positions based in Seattle and Washington D.C. The foundation strives to balance competitive pay with its mission, and new hires typically fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range. Candidates should be prepared for potential travel, both domestically and internationally, which may exceed 50% during transaction negotiations. The hiring process includes a background check, and the foundation is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience.
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