Vice President of Partnerships

Principals

Buffy Filippell (Founder, TeamWork Consulting) is leading this search. Please contact her at [email/protected] with any questions.

About the role

The VP of Partnerships leads the strategic vision, execution, and growth of the club’s corporate partnerships program. This leadership role oversees all aspects of sponsorship sales, activation, and partner relations, driving revenue generation through innovative sales campaigns, lead generation, and long-term strategic relationships. The Vice President will supervise and mentor the Partnership Sales & Activation Manager, ensuring the department operates efficiently and effectively while aligning partnership initiatives with the organization’s broader goals.

Functional requirements

• Strategic Leadership & Revenue Delivery
• Develop and execute a comprehensive partnerships strategy aligned with the club’s business objectives.
• Identify, target, and secure new sponsorship opportunities while managing high-level negotiations with prospective partners.
• Drive revenue growth through acquisition, renewal, and expansion of local, regional, and national partnerships.
• Stay informed on market trends, competitor activity, and emerging sponsorship models to maintain a competitive advantage.
• Lead long-term forecasting, planning, and strategy development for future partnership initiatives.

• Team Management
• Lead, mentor, and support a partnership team of two, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and performance.
• Oversee daily operations and provide the Partnership Sales & Activation Manager with guidance and resources for success.
• Set performance goals, monitor progress, and facilitate professional development opportunities.

• Partner Relationship Management
• Serve as the senior point of contact for key accounts, ensuring all deliverables exceed expectations.
• Oversee fulfillment, reporting, and execution of partnership assets and contractual obligations.
• Proactively identify upsell, renewal, and customization opportunities that add value for partners and the club.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Work closely with marketing, community relations, operations, and ticketing departments to deliver integrated partnership activations.
• Ensure cohesive partner messaging across all channels—digital, in-stadium, community, and broadcast.
• Participate in matchday and event operations to support partner activations and relationship-building.

Development

• Implement new systems, technologies, and processes that increase departmental efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
• Explore innovative sponsorship categories and non-traditional revenue opportunities. Champion professional growth within the partnerships team through coaching, mentorship, and skill development.
• Represent One Knoxville SC in the community and at industry events to expand the club’s network and visibility.

Other

• Ensure compliance with all league, organizational, and ethical standards.
• Serve as a visible and professional ambassador of the organization in all community and media engagements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by executive leadership.

Physical requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds for setup and teardown of activations.
• Able to work in both office and stadium environments.
• Regular weekend and evening work required during the season.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, CRM systems, and presentation tools.
• Flexible schedule with availability for evenings, weekends, and matchdays.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Questions

• Are you currently eligible to work in the United States of America?
• Do you now or in the future require visa sponsorship to continue working in the United States?
• Name the sponsorship deals or renewals you have closed in the last 12 months and the value of the deal per year.