Overview
Switchbacks FC is a proud member of the United Soccer League (USL) and an integral part of the Colorado Springs community. We’re committed to excellence on and off the field, guided by our vision, mission, and values (VMV) that emphasize community engagement, competitive spirit and passion, and organizational integrity.
The organization seeks a Director of Partnerships to lead revenue growth through the strategic development, management, and fulfillment of corporate partnerships. This position serves as a key member of the Switchbacks FC leadership team, contributing to the overall success of the organization while building meaningful relationships with partners and the Colorado Springs community.
Responsibilities
Partnership Sales & Strategy
- Build and maintain partnership pipeline based on asset fit and investment capacity
- Generate new business with innovative partnership packages that drive maximum revenue for the Switchbacks
- Establish long-term strategic vision for the department that maximizes revenue while building deep partnership activations and relationships
- Lead strategic contract renewals and renegotiations to bring undervalued partnerships to market rate, maximizing revenue while maintaining strong relationships and recognizing when not to extend deals..
- Maintain rate cards responsive to market dynamics in soccer and Colorado Springs
- Demonstrate urgency and accountability in achieving annual sales goals
Activation & Partner Success
- Manage execution of partnership activations, in-game and external, to maximize partner’s experience and perceived ROI
- Provide regular, data-driven reporting on activation performance and ROI
- Ensure all activities and engagement with partners aligns with Switchbacks VMV, common sense, and contracts - in that order
Leadership & Community
- Mentor and develop partnership coordinator(s)
- Serve as collaborative team member with a club-first mentality
- Represent Switchbacks FC at community events, networking functions, and speaking engagements
- Support community-focused activations
- Provide clear reporting on pipelines, sales performance, renewals, and cash flows
Skills & Experiences
- 10+ years in corporate partnerships or sponsorship sales
- Proven track record meeting/exceeding sales goals
- Excellent relationship management and communication skills
- Strong relationship management and strategic thinking skills
- Sports business experience preferred, soccer/USL knowledge a plus
- Commitment to operating with integrity and in alignment with organizational values
- Familiarity with or network in the Colorado Springs business community preferred
Core Competencies
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Results-oriented with strong accountability
- Collaborative team player with leadership capabilities
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills
- Adaptability and market awareness
- Community-minded and relationship-focused
Compensation
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.
