The Senior Manager, Partnership Marketing for Major League Soccer/Soccer United Marketing is responsible for managing the day-to-day execution of all activities within assigned Partner Accounts focusing on emerging technology & platforms. As the key account person, the Senior Manager is responsible for delivering the highest level of client service while at the same time acting as an MLS/SUM consultant to ensure that effective programs are created and implemented across the enterprise. Candidate must have experience flourishing in rapidly evolving industries and environments and possess exceptional problem solving, analytical, and relationship building skills. The assigned accounts could also have exposure to Leagues Cup, Mexican National Team and Concacaf. The Senior Manager will research and analyze market data to determine and develop potential sponsorship opportunities as well as increase activation with current partners.

Responsibilities

Support renewal efforts of current partner contracts and provide insights based on market research as well as information gathered from partner conversations, history and relationships.
Be the PM Business lead emerging/evolving technology accounts (Tik Tok, blockchain, gaming, sports betting, NFT’s etc.) and provide oversight for the management and execution of all components of the partner agreements
Collect and analyze data on market conditions, competitors, industry trends, and customer demographics to help find opportunities for the development of strategic sponsorship partnerships.
Prepare reports based on market research findings, update and maintain sponsorship proposals and other marketing materials, and track progress towards achieving partnership marketing goals.
Develop and implement partner surveys to determine and evaluate partner satisfaction, market trends and future opportunities.
Work with the leadership team to increase revenue generation through negotiations that position soccer for growth both domestically and internationally
Proactively generate new ideas for new sponsorship opportunities including in game elements and retail promotions to grow partner business
Effectively present information to sponsors and internal team members and effectively answer any questions that arise
Act as the day-to-day contact with the client including:
- Run weekly calls
- Liaise with internal staff
- Issue resolution
- Oversight of asset delivery
- Internal MLS/SUM resource
- Account Management
- Facilitate special requests
Act with fiscal responsibility for the day-to-day management of program budgets and ensure that sponsor promotions are within budget
Provide creative approval of all partner assets
Provide strategic oversight of contractual assets including but not limited to ticket pools, player appearances, pre-game field, etc.
Manage CRM database and create/update partner profiles
Oversee partner hospitality events
Deliver the media strategy in coordination with the media team

Additional Responsibilities

Represent PM on internal task force as needed
Lead special projects as requested by Vice President
Additional responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree
7+ years of experience in strategic brand and partnership marketing

Required Skills

Proven experience executing multimillion dollar sports partnership/sponsorship activation
Excellent knowledge and experience with emerging technology and platforms (i.e. TikTok, OTT, VR)
Detailed understanding of sports business affairs including legalities when dealing with players, rights management, contract negotiations and other legal complexities surrounding how to activate rights around players/properties
Creative strategist with the ability to concept client solutions
Strong understanding of sports and entertainment sponsorships, including promotions, events, media and contracts
Strong understanding of marketplace on both a local and national level
Outstanding analytical interpersonal skills with ability to problem solve
Experience managing and motivating a team
Positive attitude with the ability to adapt and work effectively in a fast-paced, team environment
Superior organization, project management skills and attention to detail
High level of dedication t to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance
Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
Meticulous with the ability to multi-task, creatively solve day-to-day challenges, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Ability to effectively communicate, both written and verbally
Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills

Desired Skills

Experience in the sports marketing and/or product industry
Knowledge of the sport of soccer

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary: $90,000 – $110,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.
Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.
Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of our team and inspire you to elevate the Game!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.