Director, Partnership Marketing (WNBA)

Job Summary The Director of Partnership Marketing is responsible for managing, executing, and renewing high‑profile WNBA Cleveland partnership accounts. The role consistently works internally and externally to create strategic activations and vision for corporate partners, enabling integrated marketing platforms that include promotional programs, media, digital, community relations, hospitality, and other marketing programming. The position contributes significantly to revenue growth of the account base and the overall business through strategic upsells, including marketing and hospitality, and reports to the Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships & Commercial Strategy. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Be solution‑driven and deliver value for both WNBA Cleveland and partnership accounts. Lead all renewal initiatives, including strategic planning, meetings, negotiations, and detailed upsell opportunities. Develop and maintain relationships with all levels of partnership accounts. Identify and cultivate new upsell opportunities to grow the business. Meet and exceed established upsell and renewal revenue goals. Contribute to overall revenue growth for the organization. Understand each account’s business goals and provide growth recommendations. Communicate detailed pitches for new opportunities or upsells. Maintain a strong understanding of each client’s industry, competition, and budget processes. Stay abreast of relevant sponsorship, sports, and marketing news. Connect partners to the Cleveland WNBA customer network to create B2B opportunities. Provide regular performance proof‑of‑performance and recaps, including measurement, ROI, and storytelling. Track account history, relationship touchpoints, and partnership details in CRM. Attend network and promotional events to maintain client touchpoints locally, regionally, and nationally. Liaise with other departments for ideation and execution of sponsored programs. Attend WNBA home games to host sponsors and manage partnership execution. Work with measurement tools and the Business Intelligence Group to provide thorough results. Create and execute a strategic added‑value plan within budgetary constraints. Cultivate new ideas and maintain a positive, team‑first attitude. Develop solutions to internal and partnership challenges and contractual obligations. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in communications or marketing preferred. Five or more years of experience managing 6‑figure or higher partnerships in major sports leagues. Demonstrated ability to pitch and sell concepts that drive revenue growth. Cooperative, courteous, and tactful in dealings with all organizational levels. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Salesforce, and related computer tools. At least 3 years of experience in sales strategy, cultivation, and negotiation. Flexible work schedule to accommodate special event responsibilities throughout the year. Excellent communication skills and independent work ability with minimal supervision. Ability to work at arena events and WNBA Cleveland home games, including Cavs, Monsters, and Charge games. Prioritize and manage multiple tasks and support multiple executive levels. Meet tight deadlines and perform well under pressure. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport. Availability and willingness to work extended hours, including nights and weekends. Ability to maintain discretion and protect confidential information. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class. #J-18808-Ljbffr