Director of Partnerships, Germany / DACH (m/w/d)

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Director of Partnerships, Germany / DACH (m/w/d)

🔹 Company: The National Football League

🔹 Location: Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

🔹 Job Type: On-site

🔹 Category: Sports Management

🔹 Date Posted: April 22, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site (No remote or hybrid working options)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading the Commercial team to manage partners with sponsorship rights in Germany / DACH and achieve annual revenue targets.
• Exceptional partnership management, supporting revenue growth, and flawless activation execution.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders to ensure successful delivery of partner objectives.
• Working closely with the international team and other departments to capitalize on available activation funds.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate complex business environments. A successful candidate will have a proven track record in partnership management, revenue growth, and stakeholder collaboration in the sports industry.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Exceptional Partnership Management:

• Develop relationships with existing NFL partners and adeptly resolve partner issues.
• Identify and contact key decision-makers at C-suite level.
• Lead on local renewals process for Partners and support the team on upsells to meet revenue targets.
• Work closely with the global team to capitalize on available activation funds.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role requires strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

✅ Supporting Revenue Growth:

• Support Global New Business by providing market perspectives, identifying relevant local targets, and recommending white space opportunities.
• Proactively identify opportunities and revenue streams, including exploitation of traditional inventory and digital opportunities.
• Analyze opportunities for growth in new areas to drive profitability and mitigate potential risks.
• Build innovative and tailored propositions that attract and convince potential sponsors to partner with the NFL.
• Provide support using key sponsorship and valuation metrics during contractual discussions.
• Manage local sales agencies to ensure they execute their scope of work and provide support as needed.
• Adopt a proactive approach to secure incremental revenue, working closely with the international team and other departments.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role demands a strategic mindset, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the sports sponsorship landscape.

✅ Flawless In-Market Activation Execution:

• Work with the Global Sponsorship Team to ensure a consistent look and feel is achieved and a joined-up approach is adopted, where relevant.
• Manage local activation agencies to ensure they execute their respective scopes and provide support as needed.
• Lead and oversee the activation and asset development of key League priorities, including International Games, and in-market tentpole activations.
• Support Club Business Development with team activity and new partnerships, advising on local guidance based on local partner rights.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role requires strong project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with external agencies.

✅ Serve as a Visible In-Market Leadership:

• Motivate all team members and lead by example to ensure a committed, enthusiastic, and passionate delivery on a day-to-day basis.
• Oversee the partnership delivery program to ensure assets are available and inventory is being carefully managed.
• Actively provide feedback for continuous improvement based on market knowledge and executional requirements.
• Maintain strong marketplace knowledge about industry trends and company spend in sponsorship/marketing.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role demands strong leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to driving a high-performing team culture.

✅ Collaborate and Manage Internal Stakeholders:

• Provide updates to GM, Germany, and US Global Sponsorship Team on day-to-day partner management matters, including efficient pipeline and status reporting.
• Successfully navigate through a complex matrix business with poise and maturity, ensuring the best interests of the team and commercial partners.
• Responsible for the discretionary commercial budget and reporting into GM, Germany, NFL Finance team, and US Global Sponsorship Team regularly.
• Align with the reporting process internationally to ensure all internal departments are engaged with NFL Partners and provide the necessary support to deliver against Partner objectives, with constant communication and collaboration.
• Foster the best possible professional relationships with internal stakeholders and colleagues.
• Provide updates to Global Sponsorship Team on day-to-day partner management matters, including efficient pipeline and status reporting.
• Ensure all internal stakeholders understand the importance of the commercial program and each department understands their role in the successful delivery of the program.
• Collaborate with other departments, particularly finance, legal, public relations, and marketing, to ensure the successful contracting and sign-off of any new program.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role requires strong communication skills, stakeholder management experience, and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures.

✅ Support and drive overall business goals of NFL Germany / DACH in the Partnership space:

• Identify core synergies between Sponsorship and other crucial revenue streams / key stakeholders within the in-market organization (e.g., Media partners) to drive overall growth.
• Close collaboration with other key partners, like host cities, that influence cross-departmental success of the business, e.g., around hosting Games in-market.

ASSUMPTION: This aspect of the role demands a strategic mindset, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the German sports market and its key players.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred

Experience: 5-8 years of experience in sports or with agency, with a background in sports sponsorship preferred

Required Skills:

• Fluency in German and English
• Proven ability to translate meetings and conversations as necessary and clearly convey tone and potential cultural differences to provide perspective
• Strong leadership skills with experience of working cross-functionally and championing partner programs internally
• Results-driven with a focus on meeting team performance, sponsorship revenue, activation, and satisfaction metrics
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with partners, stakeholders, and team members
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking, with the ability to analyze data and make informed decisions based on market trends and insights
• Proven ability to manage budgets, allocate resources, and track progress against key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Familiarity with sponsorship valuation metrics and tools

Preferred Qualifications:

• League or Club experience
• Client management experience and a proven track record of driving revenue growth
• Additional language proficiency (e.g., Spanish, French, or Mandarin)

ASSUMPTION: These qualifications are specific to this role and reflect the unique demands of the German sports market and the NFL's partnership strategy.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €130,000 - €155,000 EUR per year

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with company matching
• Generous vacation time and flexible work arrangements
• Employee discounts and perks, including access to NFL games and events

Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with some flexibility for remote work during non-critical periods

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the sports industry. The final offer may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Spectator Sports

Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees

Founded: 1920

Company Description:

• Headquartered in New York City, the NFL expands across the nation and the globe with offices including NFL Media based in Inglewood, CA and the NFL Films office based in Mt. Laurel, NJ.
• The NFL also has satellite offices in Atlanta, Washington DC, and Chicago. Our International offices are located in the UK, Germany, China, Mexico & Canada.
• The NFL is the industry leader on a wide range of fronts, including national and international distribution, extensive revenue sharing, competitive excellence, and strong franchises across the board.

Company Specialties:

• Football
• Sports
• Digital Media
• Engineering
• Entertainment
• Media
• Marketing
• Community
• Technology
• and Sponsorship

Company Website: NFL.com

ASSUMPTION: The NFL's extensive global presence and diverse business lines provide ample opportunities for career growth and development within the organization.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-career to senior-level role, with potential for growth into a leadership or executive position

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the GM, Germany, with a dotted-line reporting relationship to the US Global Sponsorship Team

Work Arrangement: On-site, with some flexibility for remote work during non-critical periods

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to expand the role's scope and influence as the German market grows and evolves
• Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and collaborate with senior leadership
• Potential to transition into a more senior role within the organization as the candidate's skills and experience develop

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with significant potential for career growth and impact.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, state-of-the-art office space with a collaborative work environment

Office Location(s): Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Geographic Context:

• Düsseldorf is the capital of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the seventh most populous city in Germany, with a diverse and vibrant cultural scene
• The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies and is a major hub for the German media, advertising, and IT industries
• Düsseldorf is also a significant transportation hub, with excellent connections to other major German cities and international destinations

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, with some flexibility for remote work during non-critical periods

ASSUMPTION: Düsseldorf's central location and vibrant business ecosystem provide a stimulating work environment and ample opportunities for professional growth and networking.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission through the NFL's careers website
• Phone or video screening with the HR department
• In-depth interviews with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders, including behavioral and situational questions
• Final round interviews with senior leadership, focusing on cultural fit and long-term potential

Key Assessment Areas:

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Leadership and management abilities
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Industry-specific knowledge and experience
• Cultural fit and adaptability

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this specific role
• Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences
• Research the NFL and the German sports market to demonstrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
• Practice your communication skills and be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your career trajectory

ATS Keywords: Partnership Management, Sponsorship, Revenue Growth, Stakeholder Collaboration, Strategic Planning, German Market, Sports Industry, Leadership, Communication, German Language, English Language

ASSUMPTION: The NFL's application process is designed to assess candidates' skills, experiences, and cultural fit for the organization. Being prepared and proactive throughout the process will increase your chances of success.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Social media management platforms (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)

ASSUMPTION: The required tools and technologies for this role may evolve over time as the organization's needs and digital landscape change.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Respect: Everyone matters. We celebrate diverse opinions, honor hard work, and value every contribution.
• Integrity: We do what's right, even when it's tough. We hold ourselves accountable and always follow through.
• Team Responsibility: We support each other and our communities. No one is bigger than the game, and every action impacts others.
• Resiliency: We set high standards, overcome adversity, and adapt to challenges, always striving for excellence.

Work Style:

• Collaborative and inclusive, with a strong focus on teamwork and open communication
• Fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on results and continuous improvement
• Adaptable and resilient, with a willingness to embrace change and learn from setbacks
• Innovative and creative, with a commitment to driving progress and pushing boundaries

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you align with the NFL's core values, and how can you contribute to our culture as a team member?
• How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with partners, stakeholders, and team members?
• How do you handle working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, and how do you adapt to change and setbacks?

ASSUMPTION: The NFL values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, and seeks candidates who embody these principles in their work and personal lives.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Navigating a complex, matrix business structure with multiple stakeholders and reporting lines
• Managing a diverse team with varying skillsets and backgrounds
• Balancing the demands of multiple partners, stakeholders, and internal departments
• Adapting to a dynamic and evolving market, with shifting priorities and expectations

ASSUMPTION: These challenges reflect the unique demands of the German sports market and the NFL's complex, global organization. Successful candidates will have proven experience navigating complex business environments and driving results in dynamic, fast-paced settings.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to similar roles in other industries, this position offers unique opportunities to work in a high-profile, dynamic environment with significant potential for career growth and impact.
• The German sports market presents distinct challenges and rewards, requiring candidates with a deep understanding of the local landscape and a strategic mindset.
• Within the NFL, this role offers a unique opportunity to work in a global organization with a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and results-driven culture.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of challenges, rewards, and growth opportunities, making it an attractive choice for candidates seeking a dynamic, high-impact role in the sports industry.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a successful partnership strategy for a major international event, such as the Super Bowl
• Negotiating and securing a high-value, multi-year partnership with a global brand
• Managing a team to deliver a complex, large-scale activation project, such as an international game or fan event

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects reflect the diverse and challenging nature of the role, requiring candidates with a strong background in partnership management, strategic planning, and execution.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with partners, stakeholders, and team members in a complex, matrix business environment?
• How do you balance the demands of multiple partners, stakeholders, and internal departments, ensuring that everyone's needs are met while driving overall business success?
• How do you adapt to a dynamic and evolving market, and how do you prioritize your efforts to maximize impact and drive results?
• How do you ensure that your team is aligned and motivated, and how do you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement?
• How do you approach working with external agencies and vendors, and how do you ensure that they deliver results that meet your organization's needs and expectations?

ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to assess candidates' strategic thinking, leadership skills, and adaptability in a complex, dynamic business environment.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the following link: NFL Careers
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for this specific role
• Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences
• Research the NFL and the German sports market to demonstrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
• Practice your communication skills and be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your career trajectory
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your continued interest in the position

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.