The Chicago Sky are seeking a Corporate Partnerships Activation Manager who will manage and maintain key local partner relationships while supporting contract execution and activation fulfillment. 

The ideal candidate will have experience in corporate partnership account management or activation and a strong attention to detail. This role is well suited for a proactive professional with a passion for in-person event execution and partner relationship management. The Account Manager will help retain the current partner portfolio by serving as the primary point of contact for select partners, while also supporting the Director of Partnership Activation across additional accounts. Responsibilities include day-to-day partner communications, planning and execution of activations, fulfillment tracking, and ongoing relationship management to drive long-term satisfaction and renewal.

 

This position reports to the Director of Partnership Activation.

 ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

·        Retaining and growing all current partners by providing world-class customer experience and proactive account servicing.

·       Serve as the main account manager for an assigned portfolio of partners, responsible for all communication, activation planning, fulfillment execution, and reporting.

·       Work with the Activation & Strategy teams to develop and service partnerships including planning, execution, customer service, and proof of performances.

·       Conduct regular check-ins and strategic planning meetings with assigned partners to assess goals, provide updates, and ensure satisfaction.

·       Track and manage partner deliverables using detailed activation plans, timelines, and fulfillment reports.

·       Assist in the implementation of activations, including LEDs, social media, website banner ads, events, etc.

·       Assist in maintaining and updating inventory asset trackers.

·       Assist in maintaining and updating the Sky Corporate Partner database.

·       Work with the Solutions team by preparing performance metrics reports, including social metrics, broadcast impressions, fan demographics, etc.

·       Assist with and lead biweekly calls with partners, as well as sending recap emails to highlight key action items & follow-ups.

·       Collaborate cross-functionally with internal departments (marketing, PR, ticketing, game ops) to ensure smooth activation of all partnership assets.

·       Game day duties to be determined based on need and sponsorship activations. Must attend all home games (schedule currently posted).

·       Attend networking and community events to build a book of business and community partnerships.

·       Other duties as necessary and mandated by the management team.

·       Bachelor’s degree required (advanced degree preferred), ideally in Sports Management, Sports Marketing, Business, or Marketing.

·       Must have 3+ years of successful sponsorship-related (sales, activation, solutions, etc.) experience with demonstrated sales, project management, and execution skills, with an understanding of/experience in one or more of the following or related industries: sports, venues, music, entertainment.

·       Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

·       Demonstrated success analyzing marketing strategy and developing “out-of-the-box” ideas.

·       Creative problem solver with the ability to quickly understand brands/partners’ business models and identify creative solutions for how to solve indicated KPIs

·       Excellent written, verbal communication, and storytelling skills with strong attention to detail.

·       Proficient in Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Salesforce and other related computer skills required.

·       Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet tight deadlines, and perform effectively under pressure.

·       Must be able to work non-traditional hours as required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to fulfill the commitments of the role.

·       The Corporate Partnerships Department works remotely on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with mandatory in-office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Standard work hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This schedule is subject to change with ample prior notice, including the potential addition of in-office days as deemed necessary by department leadership or organizational needs.

·       All Corporate Partnerships staff members are expected to work all home games (minimum of 22 per season), including nights, weekends, and holidays. Staff is expected to be available for pre-season and post-season games as required.

·       Travel opportunities for client events, symposiums, and Chicago Sky games may occasionally be required. Ample notice will be provided, and all associated costs will be covered by the team.

Compensation: $75,000 – $100,000 total annual compensation
(Includes base salary plus performance-based commissions)

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision + Life Insurance


ABOUT THE SKY
 
The Chicago Sky is a professional basketball team in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), competing in the league’s Eastern Conference and proudly calling Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois home.

 

As a proud representative of one of the most dynamic sports cities in the world, we’re more than a basketball team, we’re a movement. Our mission is to be a championship-caliber organization that builds meaningful connections with fans and partners while inspiring pride throughout our city. Every member of our team, on the court, in the office, and across the community, plays a role in elevating the game and redefining what’s possible.

 

Our vision is to be a leading sports organization that inspires excellence, cultivates belonging, and creates opportunities for our fans, employees, and partners to thrive together.

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.