Strategic Projects and Business Development Specialist, SAFE-T System

Penn State University is seeking a Strategic Projects & Business Development Specialist for the SAFE-T System, which connects rural and underserved communities to expert Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners for telehealth support. The role involves identifying partnerships, managing strategic projects, and enhancing service delivery to drive growth and operational excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Identify and research potential hospital and clinic partners who could benefit from SAFE-T's forensic telehealth services
• Conduct outreach to healthcare administrators, emergency department directors, and nursing leadership to introduce SAFE-T services
• Build and maintain relationships with prospective partners through regular communication, presentations, and consultations
• Develop compelling proposals and presentations that articulate the value proposition of SAFE-T services
• Collaborate with clinical and technical teams to customize solutions for prospective partners' specific needs
• Track and manage partnership pipeline using CRM tools, maintaining detailed records of all interactions and opportunities
• Support the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of project management systems for SAFE-T System
• Coordinate cross-functional projects involving research, clinical operations, IT, and external partners
• Work closely with the Director and Assistant Director on strategic initiatives aimed at scaling SAFE-T's technology and service impact
• Maintain project tracking systems, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and milestones are clearly documented and communicated
• Identify and proactively address project dependencies, gaps, and potential obstacles
• Maintain awareness of all ongoing projects and initiatives across research, clinical, IT, and business development teams
• Facilitate communication between teams to ensure alignment and information sharing
• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, and document action items and decisions
• Serve as a bridge between strategic leadership and operational teams
• Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive landscape in telehealth and forensic nursing
• Research and evaluate software, technology platforms, and operational tools to support SAFE-T's growth
• Analyze partnership data and metrics to inform strategic decision-making
• Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for leadership
• Step in to execute critical tasks during high-priority initiatives, transitions, or capacity constraints
• Lead by example in tackling urgent assignments with flexibility and resourcefulness
• Support special events, partner onboarding, and other operational needs as they arise
• May supervise staff, including hiring, coaching, development, and performance management

Requirements:

• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, communicate value propositions, and close partnership agreements
• Outstanding project coordination, process improvement, and organizational skills with high attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to create compelling presentations and proposals
• Demonstrated track record of being proactive, innovative, a self-starter, and results-oriented
• Ability to work independently on complex, multi-initiative projects
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments; inclusive and respectful when working with others
• Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and confidentiality
• Demonstrated adaptability in fast‑paced, evolving environments; able to shift priorities and navigate ambiguity with confidence
• Bachelor's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• The required 6+ years of relevant experience listed above must come from one or more of the following fields: business development, sales, customer relationship or account management, or partnership development
• Familiarity with forensic nursing, sexual assault services, or trauma-informed care is strongly preferred
• Degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Communications, Marketing, or related field
• Proficiency with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
• Experience using project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or similar tool)
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Experience in healthcare, telehealth, or health technology sectors
• Knowledge of hospital operations, emergency departments, or nursing services
• Track record of successfully launching new initiatives or expanding service territories
• Certifications in project management, sales, or business development