Sponsorship Director - Fan Expo (East Coast Preferred)

Company Description

We’re part of Informa, a global business with a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries, and a member of the FTSE 100.

Our purpose is to connect our customers to information and people that help them know more, do more and be more. No other company in the world helps more people share professional knowledge or make business connections.

We run around 800 events each year, create digital platforms based on engaging news and information content, and operate professional development programmes for individuals and businesses.

Job Description

The Sponsorship Director is responsible for dedicating the time, effort, and creativity needed to successfully plan, develop, implement, and optimize commercial sponsorship programs for Fan Expo HQ events worldwide. This role encompasses all aspects of sponsorship, including planning, sales, relationship-building, contract negotiation, activation management, and client relations.

The Director will focus on identifying growth opportunities and securing new sponsorships to drive revenue. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in consumer and/or pop culture exhibition events, with a strong background in strategic sponsorship development.

Responsibilities

Establish and maintain positive relationships
Serve as the representative for the North American portfolio, building strong relationships with sponsors, exhibitors, vendors, contractors, and community business contacts.

Develop and deliver a comprehensive sponsorship sales plan
Identify potential exhibitors and sponsors, and create a compelling sponsorship prospectus.

Represent Fan Expo HQ at key events
Attend critical functions, shows, onsite events, and other opportunities to foster the right relationships and identify new revenue streams.

Build a sponsorship spectrum
Identify potential sponsors and create targeted opportunities to engage them.

Negotiate sponsorship terms
Finalize pricing, deliverables, activation plans, and contract details with sponsors.

Execute activation plans
Create and implement operational plans for sponsor activations in collaboration with internal and external partners.

Create customized sponsorship packages
Develop sponsorship tiers offering branding opportunities, event access, marketing exposure, and exclusive experiences.

Monitor sponsorship performance
Track key metrics, generate performance reports, and adjust strategies as needed. Manage the sponsorship budget, forecast revenue, track expenses, and ensure profitability.

Collaborate with marketing
Promote sponsorship opportunities and showcase sponsor benefits through marketing materials and communications.

Lead the sponsorship team
Manage the sponsorship team, overseeing booth sales and exhibitor recruitment.

Key Dimensions

Strategic Planning

• Gather and analyze data from previous activities and results.
• Redefine goals and objectives based on current trends, market conditions, and competition.
• Determine near-term priorities and resource allocations in line with long-term objectives.
• Provide guidance for developing a marketing plan that reflects priorities, partner resources, and budgets.

Sponsorship

• Oversee the sponsorship program and manage the team responsible for booth sales and exhibitor recruitment.
• Identify new markets and business opportunities to increase sales and attract new exhibitors.
• Assess sponsorship opportunities and activation ideas.
• Meet with sponsor representatives as needed.
• Create sponsorship contracts and ensure obligations and activations are fulfilled.
• Manage onsite sponsor presence, including space allocation, design, technical services, and logistics.

Further Information:

• Salary range: $125,000 to $150,000 plus uncapped commission.
• This job posting will close on January 13, 2025.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience leading and developing high-performing sales teams, particularly in event sales, sponsorships, or exhibitions.
• Strong background in business-to-consumer (B2C) event sales, particularly in industries related to events, exhibitions, or sponsorships.
• In-depth understanding of event planning, trade shows, or pop culture exhibitions, including logistics and operations.
• Expertise in managing long-term client relationships and ensuring client satisfaction and retention.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive sales strategies to dri