Thanks for your feedback. Sounds like you’re in a tough spot…

If you haven’t already spoken about this with your manager and/or your CEO, you need to. But you need to be careful, obviously, since disagreeing with the boss in public is never a good idea.

Conflict911 has several good ideas on this topic that you may want to check out: http://conflict911.com/cgi-bin/links/jump.cgi?ID=5080

I think the key is to approach it respectfully and carefully–and make sure you have solid arguments for why this is a bad fit, what the impact will be on the product and the users of your product, and ideas on how to proceed. Make sure you listen to their feedback on why this partner was selected, and keep the conversation constructive.

It’s not easy, but it is possible to get through this.

Even if you don’t succeed in deterring them from this particular partner (because, for example, they have information that maybe you don’t), your willingness to listen and provide constructive feedback will demonstrate your ability to consider the business aspects of product management, and build management’s belief in your ability to do right by the company.

Good luck!