The 3-time WNBA Champions Los Angeles Sparks are growing! We are seeking a Director of Partnership Marketing, who will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with marketing partners and executing partnership agreements for the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). This is a fast-paced, entrepreneurial opportunity that requires an energetic, organized, proactive contributor who is ready to be an integral part of a growing team. The Director of Partnership Marketing will work directly with the Partnerships, Marketing and Community Leads to ensure successful execution of all partner agreements. This position works under the direction of the Head of Partnerships.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:
Relationship Management
Develop meaningful and lasting relationships for LA Sparks partners while driving revenue through strategic and creative planning in a positive team environment
Provide flawless client service execution of deliverables, evaluation of upsell opportunities, relationship building and entertaining, as necessary
Initiate and maintain regular contact with partner and/or partner's agency, developing strong professional relationships.
Lead and direct business review meetings with each partner on a regular basis
Activation Fulfillment
Manage the creation and implementation of complete activation platforms with new and existing partners, including marketing and community programming
Assist with game day events and activation for partners, including but not limited to special activations, pre-game, in-game and half-time promotions, hospitality events, promotional activations and displays
Coordinate and implement all in-game elements, including video board features, ribbon board exposure, LED signage and game day partnerships
Manage all partner season tickets, individual game tickets, suites, hospitality and special events
Coordinate and execute all non-game day events and promotions, including but not limited to clinics, player appearances, and special promotions
Plan and execute contractual advertising and marketing elements as well as events, promotions, activities, and VIP experiences
Enhance and renew partnerships in conjunction with the sales team by executing all contractual elements and providing opportunities to add value and exceed expectations for partners based on KPIs
Create recaps with proof of performance for each partner
Results and Measurement
Audit client benefits and execute on a timely basis, maintaining partner database and comprehensive asset tracker
Track all costs related to the fulfillment of each partnership and maintain control of fulfillment budgets for each partner
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work with the Sparks arena partner to monitor contractual obligations and manage team and league exclusivities
Work closely with all internal stakeholders, including marketing, graphic design, ticketing, finance, operations, community relations, and retail
Review and enforce marketing guidelines and regulations of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Ability to think critically; research, recommend and implement solutions effectively
Outstanding organizational skills, ability to follow through, and capable of meeting deadlines while balancing multiple projects and priorities
Customer service-oriented demeanor
Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively
Possess and demonstrates an extremely strong proficiency in communication skills, both written and verbal
Comfortable and experienced with public speaking and group presentations
Ability to think creatively as it pertains to developing marketing and activation campaigns
Organized with consistent attention to detail
Experience using Microsoft Office suite as well as CRM software
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays and the capability to travel as required
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent education and experience
Must have at least 3-4 years of experience in business, sports operations (team, league or agency) or related field
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required
Available to work on-site for Sparks home games and events, including late evening hours and outside normal business hours
Must be willing to relocate to Los Angeles, CA
Compensation commensurate with experience; minimum starting salary $95,000
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee in this position. It is not intended to give all the details or a step-by-step account of the way each procedure or task is performed. The incumbent is expected to perform other duties necessary for the effective operation of the department.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and you will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform critical job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.