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Director of Partnership Marketing - Naming Rights

Detroit, MI 48226

ABOUT US: 

The Lions, much like the city and community they represent, are built on a blue-collar work ethic that values hustle and conviction.  

Ford Field, the home of the Lions since 2002 in the heart of Detroit, is part of a vibrant sports and entertainment district featuring all four major professional sports franchises. Ford Field is also home to a dedicated and passionate multi-generational fan base reflective of the innovation, creativity and drive synonymous with Detroit.

Under the leadership of Sheila Hamp, the great granddaughter of Henry Ford, the Lions have ushered in an era of rebirth focused on creating an inclusive and equitable experience for employees, partners and fans. Building off the rich and diverse history of the city, the Lions embrace transparency and value contribution from all areas of the organization. We believe in the power of a pride, and acknowledge winning together takes understanding, acceptance, and teamwork. We believe in our “we” culture and are committed to building a new tradition that Detroit and Michigan can be proud of. 

One Pride. For All. 

The Director of Partnership Marketing / Naming Rights will lead all partner-related activities for the naming rights partner, including activation and execution of all contractually obligated sponsorship elements and media assets. This position will be the internal point of contact for all activity related to the naming rights partner within the organization and will be oversee the digital agency that will activate the digital elements of the agreement.  This role is expected to lead the delivery of a first-class 365-day service approach.

This position must also have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the Corporate Partnership department’s overall operations and processes, including (but not limited to) special event planning, community programs, asset management, marketing,  partner gifting/touchpoints, event operations & scheduling and executing/capturing case studies, recaps and best in class examples.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (including, but not limited to): 

The Director of Partnership Marketing / Naming Rights will have daily responsibilities including, without limitation, the following:

  • Oversee the execution of all elements of naming rights partnership for Ford Field and the Detroit Lions
    • Oversee digital/social strategy for Ford Field digital assets
    • Manage internal Ford Field Sr. Manager of Digital/Analytics
    • Revamp and implement strategic digital/social plan for Ford Field digital/social channels
    • Manage Ford Field task force that would include internal and external Ford stakeholders
    • Ford deal group liaison for Ford Field and Detroit Lions
    • Oversight of Ford international program activation and execution
  • Participate in integrated meetings to enhance asset ideation and relay information to managed agency resources
  • Manage agency resources and collaborate with internal departments and team members in order to complete contract deliverables and implement best practices
  • Maintain & deepen day to day relationships between naming rights partner and internal departments
    • Work with naming rights partner to identify measurable business objectives specific to their goals
    • Co-develop and execute a specific partnership marketing plan (alongside Solutions) that most effectively leverage our assets and capabilities, builds our partners’ business and delivers on objectives
    • Entertain and host high-level corporate executives
    • Manage (in collaboration with Solutions team) CRM entry to ensure information is accurate, deliverables are tracked and fulfilled, and account information is always up to date
    • Manage expenses related to partner contractual fulfillment as well as partner events/engagement activity
  • Attend client meetings and be an integral part of how partner, partner agencies and managed agency resources curate a unique plan for activation of naming rights partnership
  • Collaborate with Partnership Marketing, Solutions & Analytics staff on the end of season recap process, which includes the preparation of recaps, leveraging market research and analytics
  • Game-day responsibilities include activation setup, entertaining clients and fulfilling sponsorship contract obligations
  • Event planning, production, and execution for partner-sponsored events and/or meetings
  • Work with NFL sponsorship colleagues sharing ideas and industry best practices

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

  • Natural ability to develop a strong rapport and establish long-term relationships with both clients and co-workers
  • Will accept other responsibilities and duties required by the supervisor consistent with the objectives and essential functions of this position. Such responsibilities shall be incorporated into the position description if they are ongoing.

 QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • 7+ or more years of successful sponsorship fulfillment experience with a major league professional sports team or high-profile sports and entertainment entity
  • Experience working in the automotive industry and/or agency background a plus
  • Experience formulating marketing plans and promotions from development to execution
  • Experience leading and mentoring a team
  • Minimum computer aptitude required: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
  • Excellent writing and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Able to work extended hours including games and events in the evening and on weekends
  • Demonstrates an ability to work independently and to be self-motivated to make things better
  • Exceptional problem solving and multi-tasking skills
  • Comfortable working in a sales environment and having basic negotiation discussions
  • Attention to detail and ability to thrive in a deadline driven environment
  • A valid Driver’s License and a good driving record

 

 

TO APPLY:

To apply, please submit a copy of your resume along with a cover letter detailing your interest and related experience to the position.

Due to the high volume or resumes received, we regret that we are unable to update candidates on the status of their application. Those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails. 

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