Director of Corporate Partnerships

AC Grand Rapids is an MLS NEXT Pro expansion club set to launch in 2027. As a new pillar in the West Michigan sports landscape, the club is committed to building a best‑class sporting and entertainment organization that reflects the pride, passion, and values of the Grand Rapids community. We are building an innovative and community‑driven club that wins on and off the pitch. Position Summary The Director of Corporate Partnerships will play a foundational role in leading the development and implementation of the club’s corporate partnerships strategy, consistent with overall business objectives. This role is responsible for prospecting, selling, cultivating, maintaining, and renewing sponsorships, advertising, and corporate partnerships for the club and its stadium, while overseeing customer service and activation for all corporate partners. The Director of Corporate Partnerships will be a trusted leader amongst club leadership and represent the organization positively in the community. Primary Responsibilities Lead the development and implementation of strategic departmental plans consistent with club business objectives. Achieve established sales goals and budgets as set by executive leadership. Prospect, sell, cultivate, maintain, and renew sponsorships, advertising, and corporate partnerships for the club and stadium. Develop, write, and present corporate sponsorship proposals to key clients. Oversee customer service and activation of corporate partners. Interface with broadcasting, accounting, marketing, and ticket sales on internal systems related to sponsorship production, advertising inventory, cross‑promotional obligations, and internal accounts payable/receivable. Demonstrate creativity in the development of innovative and effective sales campaigns. Manage the partnerships department budget, including forecasting and expense management. Work in unison with the Director of Marketing & Communications, ticketing, and community teams to implement departmental goals and integrate partner activations. Maintain an up‑to‑date awareness of MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, and sports trends, statistics, strategies, and activities. Assist with the development, coordination, and implementation of game day activities as needed. Provide the highest standards of customer service to every partner and potential partner. Perform other duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from a four‑year college or university. At least 5 years of corporate sales experience for a sports team or comparable organization. Proven track record of personal and team achievements, with the ability to “make things happen.” Prior experience selling multi‑faceted advertising and sponsorship platforms to local, regional, and national companies, including building signage, team assets, promotions, experiential marketing opportunities, radio, web, and print. Prior experience developing, writing, and presenting sales proposals. Prior experience creating and implementing budgets and sales projections. Must be proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Must be willing to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and match days. Must be willing to travel when necessary. Must pass pre‑employment screens. Preferred Qualifications Experience playing or knowledge of the professional soccer landscape. Familiarity with the West Michigan corporate landscape. Essential Functions Develop and maintain courteous, effective, and professional working relationships with employees at all levels of the organization as well as with sponsors and their contacts. Must be able to follow company policies and procedures. Must maintain appropriate levels of confidentiality concerning partner and club matters. Must be punctual and timely in meeting all the requirements of performance, including but not limited to attendance standards, work deadlines, and scheduled meetings. Must adapt, with minimal or no advance notice, to changes in how business is conducted and work is accomplished. Always meet or exceed the club standards of professionalism. Strong conceptual and strategic skills, with the ability to think “outside the box.” Strong leadership skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent writing, communication, public speaking, and presentation skills. Dynamic interpersonal skills and approachable personality, with the ability to work with all personality types at staff and management levels. Works well under pressure while maintaining a positive attitude. Must be a reliable team player who thrives in a collaborative environment. Ability to make sound decisions and exercise independent judgment and discretion with integrity and accountability, while working in a fast‑paced, high‑demand, and sometimes strenuous environment. Must be able to multi‑task while managing time successfully. #J-18808-Ljbffr