Sr. Manager, AI DC Open Innovation Strategist

Job description Job Title: Sr.

Manager, AI DC Open Innovation Strategist

Office Location: San Jose, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Model: Onsite

About SK hynix America

At SK hynix America, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing advanced memory solutions that power everything from smartphones to data centers.

As a global leader in DRAM and NAND flash technologies, we drive the evolution o...f advancing mobile technology, empowering cloud computing, and pioneering future technologies.

Our cutting-edge memory technologies are essential in today's most advanced electronic devices and IT infrastructure, enabling enhanced performance and user experiences across the digital landscape.

We're looking for innovative minds to join our mission of shaping the future of technology.

At SK hynix America, you'll be part of a team that's pioneering breakthrough memory solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.

We're not just adapting to technological change – we're driving it, with significant investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and eco-friendly solutions and operational practices. As we continue to expand our market presence and push the boundaries of what's possible in semiconductor technology, we invite you to be part of our journey to creating the next generation of memory solutions that will define the future of computing.

About This Role:

This role will lead the design and execution of the AI Data Center Testbed Open Innovation Program to drive the development of next-generation AI datacenter solutions.

As a key member of the AI Infrastructure Solutions team, you will be responsible for building and expanding a comprehensive partner ecosystem across the full AI datacenter stack—from infrastructure and hardware to software solutions.

Working closely with SK Group portfolio companies, you will identify, evaluate, and establish strategic partnerships with key technology providers to create integrated AI datacenter offerings.

This highly visible position requires a strategic mindset, exceptional relationship-building capabilities, and deep technical business acumen to navigate complex partnerships with infrastructure providers, system integrators, and software vendors.

The ideal candidate will leverage both existing partner databases and new market intelligence to prioritize and secure partnerships that align with SK AI's long-term data center strategy.

Responsibilities:

• Launch and manage the Open Innovation Program to accelerate AI datacenter innovation and partnership development

• Identify, evaluate, and establish strategic partnerships across:

• Infrastructure: cooling, power, DCIM technologies

• Hardware: system integration, servers, storage, network/interconnect, memory

• Software: GPU orchestration, virtualization, AIOps

• Build and expand industry networks using partner databases and proactive market intelligence, with clear prioritization based on technical roadmap and business impact

• Drive joint solution development and manage partnership negotiations, contracts, and long-term alliances

• Develop C-level relationships and provide strategic recommendations to senior leadership on ecosystem gaps and market opportunities

Minimum Qualifications:

• Authorized to work in the US

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, or related field

• 8+ years in business development, strategic partnerships, or ecosystem management within datacenter, cloud infrastructure, semiconductor, or AI industries

• Proven track record establishing complex partnerships with technology vendors and system integrators

• Deep understanding of AI datacenter architecture across infrastructure, hardware, and software layers

• Strong network in the technology ecosystem with experience in partner database management and prioritization

• Fluent (Native) English

Preferred Qualifications:

• MBA or MS in Engineering or related field

• Experience managing open innovation programs, technology testbeds, or R&D consortiums

• Established network in AI datacenter ecosystem (infrastructure, hardware, software/orchestration)

• Fluent in Korean

• Experience in large conglomerates or corporate innovation units

• Hands-on experience with datacenter infrastructure (power, cooling, network)

• Familiarity with GPU orchestration platforms, or datacenter management software

• Experience structuring co-development agreements or joint business models

Requirement:

• Authorized to work in the US

Benefits:

• Top Tier health insurance at no employee cost

• Paid day offs: PTO + Company Holidays + Happy Fridays

• Paid Parental Leave Program

• 401k Matching

• Educational reimbursement up to $10,000 per year

• Donation Matching and volunteering opportunities

• Corporate discount programs

• Free Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner provided to employees

Equal Employment Opportunity:

SKHYA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender identity, national origin, color, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws.

Compensation:

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets, and we pay differently based on those defined markets.

Pay within the provided range varies by work location and may also depend on job-related skills and experience.

Your Recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the job location during the hiring process.

Pay Range: $155,000 USD - $180,000 USD Show full description