Position Summary
The Director of Corporate Partnerships & Special Events is responsible for leading The Zones' corporate sponsorship and signature fundraising efforts, with primary responsibility for planning and executing Zillions for The Zones, the organization's annual fundraising luncheon.
This position is responsible for generating sponsorship revenue, cultivating corporate and community partnerships, coordinating speakers and event logistics, managing donor stewardship, and creating an exceptional experience for sponsors, guests, and supporters.
The ideal candidate is an outgoing relationship-builder who enjoys meeting new people, confidently asking for financial support, and organizing complex events from concept to completion.
Essential Responsibilities
Corporate Sponsorship Development
- Identify, research, and cultivate prospective corporate sponsors.
- Schedule and conduct sponsorship meetings.
- Secure event sponsorships and year-round corporate partnerships.
- Develop customized sponsorship opportunities to meet business objectives.
- Maintain ongoing relationships with sponsors and donors.
- Ensure all sponsorship benefits are fulfilled accurately and on time.
Zillions for The Zones Event Leadership
Serve as the project manager for every aspect of the event, including:
- Annual event planning timeline
- Sponsorship sales
- Budget management
- Venue coordination
- Vendor management
- Silent auction
- Registration
- Seating and table assignments
- Volunteer coordination
- Event décor and signage
- Audio/visual coordination
- Printed materials
- Day-of event management
Speaker & Program Coordination
- Recruit keynote speakers and emcees.
- Coordinate speaker logistics and communication.
- Collect biographies, photos, and presentation materials.
- Develop event scripts and run-of-show.
- Coordinate rehearsals and event flow.
Silent Auction Management
- Solicit auction donations.
- Build relationships with local businesses.
- Package and display auction items.
- Coordinate auction volunteers.
- Manage winner fulfillment following the event.
Marketing & Communications
Work collaboratively with The Zones' Marketing team by providing:
- Sponsor logos and recognition information
- Event content
- Website updates
- Social media opportunities
- Invitations
- Press release information
- Printed program content
Donor Stewardship
- Ensure timely acknowledgment of sponsors and donors.
- Prepare sponsor recognition materials.
- Deliver post-event reports highlighting community impact.
- Cultivate long-term relationships that lead to annual sponsorship renewals.
Additional Responsibilities
- Represent The Zones at community events, networking functions, and business meetings.
- Develop new corporate partnership opportunities throughout the year.
- Assist with additional fundraising initiatives as assigned.
- Maintain accurate records of sponsor contacts and donor activity using CRM software.
Qualifications
- Experience in fundraising, sponsorship sales, business development, event management, or nonprofit development.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and project management abilities.
- Comfortable making sponsorship and fundraising asks.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
- Professional presentation and public speaking skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM software.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience planning fundraising events and managing corporate partnerships.
Pay: $85,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
