Business Development Manager, Brand Partnerships

AKA NYC is a global, award-winning, full-service advertising agency specializing in theater & live entertainment, arts & culture, attractions & destinations, and sports & leisure. We are content-forward and data-fueled with a proven record of delivering cross-platform campaigns that get results. Our client roster includes Broadway’s biggest shows, world-renowned institutions and museums, vibrant attractions, and dynamic sports organizations.

About the role

The Senior Manager, Brand Partnerships is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing strategic brand partnerships across AKA's portfolio of Broadway productions, cultural institutions, attractions, and live experiences. This role focuses on building relationships with prospective brand partners, developing new business opportunities, and collaborating with internal teams to bring partnerships to life.

Responsibilities

• Proactively identify and develop new brand partnership opportunities across AKA’s portfolio, leveraging your established network and proactive outreach
• Build relationships with senior brand marketing decision-makers and manage opportunities from initial conversation through signed agreement
• Lead partnership negotiations end-to-end: structure, terms, financial value, and contracting, in coordination with finance
• Develop and negotiate creative, mutually beneficial partnerships that align brand objectives with the right opportunities across AKA’s portfolio
• Determine the right model for each opportunity: sponsorship, two-way partnership, or promotion, based on commercial value exchange
• Partner closely with the Head of Brand & Talent Partnerships and internal teams to develop outbound strategies and identify new categories and prospects
• Serve as a point of contact for brand partners (VP/CMO level and above), separate from day-to-day show servicing
• Contribute toward annual partnership revenue goals by developing and closing new partnership opportunities
• Ensure signed partnerships are seamlessly transitioned to the relevant Partnership Manager and Group Account Director for activation and delivery

Requirements

• 4-6 years of experience in brand partnerships, corporate sponsorship sales, or brand marketing with direct P&L or revenue accountability
• An existing network of brand marketing, sponsorship, and partnership contacts, with a demonstrated ability to convert relationships into strategic business opportunities
• A proven track record independently originating and closing significant partnership or sponsorship deals, start to finish
• Strong commercial negotiation skills — comfortable structuring and defending deal terms
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to networking, relationship building, and business development
• Arts, entertainment, or theatre experience is a plus, but not required

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare & dental: 100% employer-paid for employees
• Generous PTO policy plus ½-day Summer Fridays
• Hybrid work model – a balance of in-office collaboration (minimum three days per week) and flexibility
• Continuous growth & learning: Annual Training & Development fund to sharpen your skills
• Financial wellness perks: Student loan repayment or tuition assistance based on tenure
• Paid parental leave: Up to 12 weeks to support growing families
• Sabbatical opportunities: Recharge and return inspired with paid time off for long-term employees
• A pet-friendly office

Pay

The salary range for this position in New York, NY is $70,000 to $75,000 per year. The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and years of experience. A discretionary bonus may be provided as part of the total compensation package.

Schedule

Hybrid work model with a minimum of three days per week in-office.