Strategic Partner Development Lead, Music Publishing Business Development

About the Job

As the Lead for Music Publishing Business Development, you will build and maintain strategic relationships with our music publishing partners in the Americas, including leading negotiations on complex licensing and partnership agreements, developing strategy and business operations priorities, and collaborating closely with internal teams on key product launches.

At YouTube, we believe that everyone deserves to have a voice, and that the world is a better place when we listen, share, and build community through our stories. We work together to give everyone the power to share their story, explore what they love, and connect with one another in the process. Working at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and boundless creativity, we move at the speed of culture with a shared goal to show people the world. We explore new ideas, solve real problems, and have fun — and we do it all together.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $177,000-$256,000 + bonus + equity + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Learn more about benefits at Google.

Responsibilities

• Structure and close strategic alliances with music licensors to enable new products and features while expanding economic opportunities for songwriters.
• Lead licensing strategies for publishers and collection societies across the Americas, serving as the primary commercial expert and point of contact.
• Provide thought leadership to challenge the status quo, proposing innovative business models and new growth strategies for YouTube’s publishing partnerships.
• Collaborate with management to define and launch strategic initiatives, including proposal development, analysis, and ensuring operational feasibility.
• Cultivate productive relationships with external partners from junior to C-level, reinforcing YouTube’s position as a vital leader in the evolving music ecosystem.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience.
  
• 10 years of experience in business development, partnerships, management consulting, or investment banking, in the Consumer Electronics, Auto, OEMs, Telecom, E-Commerce/Retail, Apps, Ads, Gaming, or Technology industries.
• Experience working with C-level executives and cross-functionally across all levels of management.
  
• Experience managing agreements or partnerships.
  

Preferred qualifications:

• MBA or JD.
• 8 years of experience in digital media business development, including a track record of closing digital music or media licensing agreements.
• Experience navigating complex music rights frameworks and licensing for emerging technologies (e.g., GenAI, UGC, or short-form video).
• Understanding of technological concepts, financial models and product features.
• Ability to think strategically and convert complex issues into straightforward, timely action.
• Excellent analytical, communication and presentation skills, including demonstrated ability to influence and communicate cross-functionally and externally.

Additional Information

This role may also be located in our Playa Vista, CA campus.

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.