Director, Strategic Partnerships + Sponsorship

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Director, Strategic Partnerships + Sponsorship 🔹 Company: Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP) 🔹 Location: Seattle, WA 🔹 Job Type: Full Time, Hybrid (3 days on-site) 🔹 Date Posted: July 29, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years 🔹 Remote Status: On-site/Hybrid 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: 1. Revenue Generation: Identify, develop, and maintain corporate relationships to grow revenue through sponsorships and memberships. 2. Strategic Partnerships: Expand MOPOP's partnerships beyond traditional sponsorships, including collaborations with corporations on marketing campaigns and membership growth. 3. Contract Management: Oversee sponsorship contract compliance, negotiate partner agreements, and manage internal accountability timelines. 4. Event Management: Coordinate corporate engagement at MOPOP events and manage hospitality for VIPs, corporate partners, and media guests. 5. Leadership & Collaboration: Work cross-functionally with MOPOP's leadership team to align sponsorship and fundraising strategies, and contribute to organizational culture and DEIA efforts. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong relationship-building skills, and experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships. A proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities is essential. 📋 Key Responsibilities 🔹 Corporate Sponsorships + Revenue Growth: - Identify, develop, and maintain corporate relationships that align with MOPOP’s mission and priorities. - Grow and steward a diverse portfolio of corporate donors, securing multi-year sponsorships. - Develop and execute strategies to maximize revenue from corporate partnerships. - Collaborate with Sales + Marketing to create sponsorship proposals and fulfill benefits for corporate sponsors and donors. 🔹 Strategic Partnerships + Institutional Collaborations: - Expand MOPOP’s partnerships beyond traditional sponsorships, including collaborations with corporations on marketing campaigns and membership growth campaigns. - Manage cross-sectoral relationships, ensuring that corporate support aligns with MOPOP’s community-centric fundraising and DEIA initiatives. - Serve as a liaison between corporate donors and MOPOP leadership to enhance institutional engagement. 🔹 Contract Execution + Compliance: - Oversee sponsorship contract compliance, ensuring all deliverables are met and reporting obligations are fulfilled. - Manage and negotiate partner agreements, vendor contracts, and internal accountability timelines. - Maintain precise sponsorship data tracking, institutional giving dashboards, and reporting processes. 🔹 Event + Logistics Management: - Oversee corporate engagement at MOPOP events, coordinating sponsor activations and event logistics. - Manage hospitality, hotel accommodations, and travel logistics for VIPs, corporate partners, and media guests. 🔹 Leadership + Internal Collaboration: - Work cross-functionally with MOPOP’s leadership team to align sponsorship and fundraising strategies. - Lead internal strategic initiatives, including the review of fundraising portfolios, budgeting, and program categorization. - Contribute to MOPOP’s organizational culture and DEIA efforts. 🔹 MOPOP Community: - Contribute to a consistent customer service standard across all departments. - Support MOPOP’s internal culture, inspiring and empowering staff to live the mission to its highest standards. - Work to ensure customer service is ingrained at the core of the team and reflected outward to guests and other staff. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field. Experience: - 5-10 years of experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships. - Proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Required Skills: - Demonstrated experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships. - Strong relationship-building skills with corporate donors, key internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams. - Experience managing sponsorship contracts, including deliverables, compliance, and reporting. - Ability to develop and execute fundraising strategies, leveraging digital platforms, social media, and peer-to-peer fundraising. - Knowledge of sponsorship funding research tools, budgeting, and fiscal management principles. - Project management experience, including handling vendor agreements, partner contracts, and stakeholder coordination. - Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling sponsorship proposals and donor communications. - Experience with donor data tracking and CRM systems, with proficiency in reporting and dashboard management. - Commitment to DEIA strategies within fundraising, partnerships, and organizational initiatives. Preferred Qualifications: - Master's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field. - Experience with donor data tracking and CRM systems, with proficiency in reporting and dashboard management. - Familiarity with the museum or nonprofit sector. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $120,016 - $130,000 per year (based on experience level and industry standards for the Seattle area) Benefits: - Medical/Vision insurance - Dental insurance - Life/AD&D/LTD insurance - 3.08 hours of accrued Vacation per bi-weekly pay period - Seattle Sick/Safe leave - 7 Floating Holidays (prorated first year dependent on hire date) - 8 Company Holidays paid throughout the year - Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - 401k plan with vested match schedule once eligible - Subsidized transportation benefits for Orca Pass or parking Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Occasional night and weekend hours may be required to support events, philanthropy, and representing MOPOP; some travel may be required. ASSUMPTION: The salary range is based on industry standards for the role, experience level, and location. The benefits package is competitive and designed to support the well-being of employees. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos Company Size: 51-200 employees Founded: 2000 Company Description: MOPOP activates the world-shaping power of pop culture through participative experiences, discovery, and play. We feature music, sci-fi, fantasy, horror, gaming, fashion, art, and more! Our mission is to inspire and connect our communities through the creative expressions of popular culture. Company Specialties: - Pop culture exhibitions and events - Music and film festivals - Art and design installations - Interactive gaming experiences - Community engagement and education programs Company Website: MOPOP Website ASSUMPTION: MOPOP's focus on pop culture allows it to connect with a wide range of audiences, fostering inclusivity and diversity. The company's size enables it to offer competitive benefits and growth opportunities while maintaining a strong connection to its community. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid-level to senior-level management role within the nonprofit sector, focusing on fundraising and strategic partnerships. Reporting Structure: The Director reports to the Vice President, Marketing Strategy + Sponsorship and works closely with MOPOP’s Executive Leadership Team and Senior Leadership Team. Work Arrangement: This role operates on a hybrid schedule, with 3 days on-site and 2 days remote. Occasional night and weekend hours may be required to support events, philanthropy, and representing MOPOP; some travel may be required. Growth Opportunities: - Potential to grow within the fundraising and strategic partnerships department or explore other leadership roles within MOPOP. - Opportunities to contribute to MOPOP’s organizational culture and DEIA efforts, driving meaningful change within the museum sector. - Chance to work with a diverse range of corporate partners, expanding professional networks and skillsets. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Hybrid work environment with 3 days on-site at MOPOP's headquarters in Seattle, WA. Office Location(s): 325 5th Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109, US Geographic Context: - Seattle, WA is a vibrant, multicultural city with a thriving arts and culture scene. - The Museum District, where MOPOP is located, is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions. - Seattle offers a high quality of life, with numerous parks, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a strong local food and drink scene. Work Schedule: The work schedule is Monday-Friday, with occasional night and weekend hours required to support events, philanthropy, and representing MOPOP; some travel may be required. ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility while maintaining a strong connection to MOPOP's on-site community and culture. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Submit your application through the provided link. 2. Phone or video screening with the Hiring Manager. 3. In-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a panel of MOPOP team members. 4. Final interview with the Executive Director or another senior leader. Key Assessment Areas: 1. Cultural Fit: Assess your understanding of MOPOP's mission, values, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). 2. Strategic Thinking: Evaluate your ability to develop and execute fundraising strategies that align with MOPOP's priorities and corporate partners' needs. 3. Relationship Building: Assess your skills in building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate donors, key internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams. 4. Communication Skills: Evaluate your written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on crafting compelling sponsorship proposals and donor communications. Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role. 2. Showcase your understanding of MOPOP's mission, values, and commitment to DEIA in your application materials. 3. Prepare examples of successful sponsorship campaigns or fundraising initiatives you've led to discuss during the interview. 4. Research MOPOP's current sponsors and partners to demonstrate your familiarity with the organization's existing relationships. 5. Practice your presentation skills, as you may be asked to deliver a short presentation as part of the interview process. ATS Keywords: Corporate Sponsorship, Fundraising, Strategic Partnerships, Relationship Building, Contract Management, Project Management, Communication Skills, Data Tracking, DEIA Commitment ASSUMPTION: MOPOP's interview process is designed to assess candidates' fit for the role and their alignment with the organization's mission and values. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of MOPOP's commitment to DEIA and a passion for driving revenue growth through strategic partnerships and sponsorships. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, Bloomerang, or similar) - Donor data tracking and reporting tools (e.g., Bloomerang, DonorPerfect, or similar) - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Google Workspace (Google Docs, Sheets, Slides) - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, or similar) - Event management software (e.g., Eventbrite, Cvent, or similar) ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with the listed tools and technologies is preferred, but not required. MOPOP provides training and support to help employees develop the necessary skills to succeed in their roles. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Creativity and innovation - Collaboration and teamwork - Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) - Community engagement and impact - Continuous learning and growth Work Style: - Strategic and data-driven approach to fundraising and partnership development - Strong relationship-building skills and ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders - Collaborative and inclusive team player, with a commitment to MOPOP's mission and values - Adaptable and responsive to change, with a focus on continuous improvement Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do your personal values align with MOPOP's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA)? 2. Describe a time when you successfully managed a complex project or event, working with multiple stakeholders to achieve a common goal. 3. How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate donors, key internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams? ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of MOPOP's commitment to DEIA and a passion for driving revenue growth through strategic partnerships and sponsorships. They will also exhibit strong relationship-building skills and a collaborative work style that aligns with MOPOP's values and culture. ⚠️ Potential Challenges 1. Work-Life Balance: Balancing the demands of the role with personal and family responsibilities may be challenging, especially when supporting events, philanthropy, and representing MOPOP. 2. Fundraising Targets: Meeting and exceeding fundraising targets can be stressful, requiring strong time management and prioritization skills. 3. Stakeholder Management: Navigating the needs and expectations of corporate donors, key internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams can be complex and time-consuming. 4. Event Management: Coordinating sponsor activations and event logistics can be demanding, requiring strong project management skills and attention to detail. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential for navigating these challenges. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. Role Differences: This role focuses on generating revenue through corporate sponsorships and memberships, while similar roles in other museums or nonprofits may focus more on grant writing, individual giving campaigns, or capital campaigns. 2. Industry-Specific Context: The museum sector is highly competitive, with organizations vying for limited resources and donor support. Successful candidates will have experience navigating this competitive landscape and securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. 3. Career Path Comparison: This role offers opportunities for growth within the fundraising and strategic partnerships department or exploring other leadership roles within MOPOP. Similar roles in other organizations may offer different career paths, depending on the organization's structure and priorities. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential for succeeding in this role. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Corporate Sponsorship Campaign: Develop and execute a successful corporate sponsorship campaign, securing multi-year sponsorships and generating significant revenue for MOPOP. 2. Strategic Partnership: Establish a strategic partnership with a corporation, driving incremental revenue and enhancing MOPOP's brand and community impact. 3. Event Management: Successfully manage a large-scale event, coordinating sponsor activations, hospitality, and logistics for VIPs, corporate partners, and media guests. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential for delivering successful projects. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. Role Responsibilities: Can you describe the day-to-day responsibilities of the Director of Strategic Partnerships + Sponsorship, and how this role fits into MOPOP's overall fundraising strategy? 2. Team Structure: How does the fundraising and strategic partnerships department collaborate with other MOPOP teams, such as marketing, events, and education? 3. Fundraising Priorities: What are the current fundraising priorities for MOPOP, and how does this role contribute to achieving those goals? 4. Corporate Engagement: How does MOPOP engage with corporate donors and partners, and what opportunities exist for growing and strengthening these relationships? 5. DEIA Initiatives: Can you describe MOPOP's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), and how this role contributes to driving progress in these areas? ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record of securing multi-year sponsorships and funding opportunities. Strong relationship-building skills and experience managing sponsorship contracts are essential for navigating the interview process and demonstrating a strong fit for the role. 📐 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the following link: MOPOP Job Application 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role. 3. Prepare for phone or video screening with the Hiring Manager, focusing on your strategic thinking, relationship-building skills, and cultural fit with MOPOP. 4. Research MOPOP's current sponsors and partners to demonstrate your familiarity with the organization's existing relationships. 5. Practice your presentation skills, as you may be asked to deliver a short presentation as part of the interview process. 6. Follow up with the Hiring Manager after your interview, expressing your interest in the role and addressing any remaining questions. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.