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Director, US Partnerships & Events

Suntory Global Spirits
Full-time
On-site
New York, New York, United States

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Director, US Partnerships & Events

πŸ”Ή Company: Suntory Global Spirits

πŸ”Ή Location: New York, New York, United States

πŸ”Ή Job Type: On-site

πŸ”Ή Category: Beverage Manufacturing

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: 2025-07-03

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 10+ years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Developing and owning strategic partnerships to elevate Suntory Global Spirits brands and drive business growth
  • Executing high-impact events that align with brand objectives and enhance consumer experience
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders to create initiatives that achieve business goals
  • Leading a team and working closely with various departments, including Brand Marketing, Field Marketing, Legal, Procurement, PR, Consumer Connections, and Commercial Marketing

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. The ideal candidate will have experience in consumer marketing, particularly with premium goods, and a proven track record in negotiating and managing partnerships.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Identify and pursue strategic partnership opportunities with key industry players, influencers, celebrities, and organizations across sports, entertainment, and lifestyle

βœ… Cultivate and maintain relationships to maximize value and collaboration

βœ… Negotiate partnership and event agreements, working with internal parties such as legal, procurement, sales, brand marketing, and PR

βœ… Vet inbound opportunities with relevant internal stakeholders, build business cases, and help sell in for incremental funding

βœ… Develop and implement a comprehensive events strategy that supports brand objectives, enhances consumer experience, and builds market presence

βœ… Plan, coordinate, and execute events (nationally led) and partner with local teams on event planning, execution, and implementation

βœ… Own event and partnership budgets

βœ… Work closely with Field Marketing to ensure event execution is managed in collaboration with local markets and in line with state and federal legalities

βœ… Develop and implement a comprehensive framework for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of existing and potential partnerships and events

βœ… Define clear, measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for each partnership, including both financial KPIs and strategic KPIs

βœ… Track and analyze partnership performance against established KPIs, regularly reporting on progress and identifying areas for improvement or optimization

βœ… Conduct PDCA analyses (Plan, Do, Check, Act) that builds towards a continuous improvement mindset and provides actionable feedback to key stakeholders (internal and external)

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under pressure. The ideal candidate will have experience in event planning, partnership management, and performance evaluation.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience: 12+ years of consumer marketing experience with premium, luxury goods, packaged goods, or services

Required Skills:

  • Strategic thinking and enterprise mindset
  • Thought leadership and results orientation
  • Experience negotiating deals from initial conversations through contract execution management
  • Proven ability to execute flawlessly on event and partnership projects that align with overall brand strategy
  • Strong understanding of how to intersect with culturally relevant moments and touchpoints for today's modern consumer
  • Self-starter with an ability to manage through ambiguity and transformation in a new strategic role within the organization
  • Demonstrated experience in working across and up within the organization, gaining credibility amongst peers, managers, and other commercial leadership
  • Strong collaboration skills across teams and functions, coupled with a strong drive and pursuit of excellence
  • Flawless communication skills in writing, meetings, and presentations
  • Demonstrated personal characteristics to be a brand evangelist to local teams
  • Experience working in or with commercial sales or field marketing is a plus
  • Multicultural marketing experience is a plus
  • Experience with the beverage alcohol industry and/or three-tiered distribution system is a plus
  • Experience directing and managing multiple agency partners is preferred

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in the beverage alcohol industry
  • Fluency in multiple languages

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in consumer marketing, with a focus on premium goods, and a proven track record in negotiating and managing partnerships. They should also be a strong communicator and collaborator, with the ability to work effectively across teams and functions.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $190,000 per year (based on location, experience, and skillset)

Benefits:

  • Annual Bonus
  • 401K Match
  • Profit Sharing
  • Medical Benefits
  • Wellness Benefits

Working Hours: Full-time, with travel required 25-50% of the time

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a role of this level and experience. The final salary offer will depend on the candidate's location, experience, and skillset.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Beverage Manufacturing, specifically focusing on premium spirits

Company Size: 5,001-10,000 employees, providing a large and diverse work environment with ample opportunities for growth and collaboration

Founded: Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan, with a global presence in nearly 30 countries

Company Description:

  • Suntory Global Spirits is a world leader in premium spirits, crafting brands that inspire the brilliance of life
  • The company is known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, Japanese whiskies, leading Scotch brands, tequila, gin, and Ready-To-Drink cocktails
  • Suntory Global Spirits is committed to equal employment opportunity, valuing diversity and inclusion in its workforce

Company Specialties:

  • Premium spirits production and distribution
  • Global marketing and branding
  • Strategic partnerships and event planning

Company Website: http://www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

ASSUMPTION: Suntory Global Spirits is a well-established company with a strong global presence and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company's focus on premium spirits provides a unique opportunity for candidates interested in the beverage industry.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: Senior-level management position, reporting directly to the US - Chief Brands Officer

Reporting Structure: This role will lead a team and collaborate with various departments, including Brand Marketing, Field Marketing, Legal, Procurement, PR, Consumer Connections, and Commercial Marketing

Work Arrangement: On-site, with travel required 25-50% of the time

Growth Opportunities:

  • Potential for career advancement within the company's global organization
  • Opportunities to work on a diverse portfolio of brands and collaborate with various departments
  • Chance to develop leadership skills and mentor team members

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth opportunities for the right candidate, with the potential to advance their career within the company's global organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate office environment in New York City

Office Location(s): New York City, US

Geographic Context:

  • New York City offers a vibrant and dynamic work environment, with access to cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife
  • The city is a major hub for the beverage industry, providing ample networking opportunities
  • New York City is a multicultural city, offering a diverse range of experiences and perspectives

Work Schedule: Full-time, with travel required 25-50% of the time

ASSUMPTION: New York City provides a dynamic and multicultural work environment, with ample opportunities for networking and professional growth within the beverage industry.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screen with the HR department
  • In-person or video interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
  • Background check and reference checks
  • Final decision and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Negotiation and communication skills
  • Event planning and project management skills
  • Cultural awareness and understanding of the beverage industry

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with strategic partnerships, event planning, and performance evaluation
  • Demonstrate your understanding of the beverage industry and the company's portfolio of brands
  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company's culture, growth opportunities, and work environment

ATS Keywords: Strategic partnerships, event planning, negotiation, consumer marketing, brand strategy, cultural relevance, project management, performance evaluation, team leadership, budget management, field marketing, agency management, multicultural marketing, beverage alcohol industry knowledge

ASSUMPTION: The interview process for this role will focus on assessing the candidate's strategic thinking, negotiation, and communication skills, as well as their experience with event planning, partnership management, and performance evaluation.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)
  • Event planning software (e.g., Eventbrite, Cvent, Bizzabo)
  • CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho CRM)

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience with project management, event planning, and CRM software, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Growing for Good: Suntory Global Spirits is committed to sustainable and responsible business practices
  • Yatte Minahare: The company encourages employees to take initiative and be proactive in their roles
  • Giving Back to Society: Suntory Global Spirits is dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities in which it operates

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented work environment
  • Fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on results and innovation
  • Strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you align with Suntory Global Spirits' commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices?
  • Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a focus on results and innovation?
  • Do you thrive in a collaborative and team-oriented work environment, with a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance?

ASSUMPTION: Suntory Global Spirits values candidates who align with the company's commitment to sustainability, proactivity, and making a positive impact on society. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, diversity, and inclusion.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
  • Working with a diverse range of stakeholders, both internal and external
  • Navigating a large and complex organization
  • Adapting to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively, work well with diverse stakeholders, navigate a large and complex organization, and adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • This role is unique in its focus on strategic partnerships and event planning within the beverage industry
  • Similar roles may include Brand Manager, Marketing Manager, or Event Manager positions within the beverage or spirits industry
  • Career progression in this role may lead to senior marketing or management positions within the company's global organization

ASSUMPTION: This role is unique in its focus on strategic partnerships and event planning within the beverage industry, offering a unique opportunity for candidates interested in this specific aspect of marketing and branding.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing and executing a strategic partnership with a major sports league to increase brand visibility and engagement
  • Planning and executing a high-impact event, such as a product launch or brand activation, to drive consumer awareness and sales
  • Evaluating the performance of existing partnerships and events, and optimizing strategies to improve results

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the key responsibilities and required skills for this role, including strategic partnerships, event planning, and performance evaluation.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the team structure and dynamics for this role?
  • How does this role collaborate with other departments, such as Brand Marketing, Field Marketing, and Commercial Marketing?
  • What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
  • How does Suntory Global Spirits support the growth and development of its employees?
  • What are the key challenges facing the beverage industry, and how does Suntory Global Spirits approach them?

ASSUMPTION: These key questions will help the candidate understand the team structure, collaboration, priorities, growth opportunities, and industry challenges specific to this role and the company.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company's culture, growth opportunities, and work environment
  • Practice your interview skills and be ready to discuss your experience with strategic partnerships, event planning, and performance evaluation
  • Follow up with the hiring manager within 24 hours after the interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role

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