Director of Brand Partnerships (Sales)

About The James Beard Foundation
The James Beard Foundation ("JBF") is a vital cultural institution with deep roots honoring and advancing the culinary arts industry. JBF's mission is to celebrate, support, and elevate the people behind America's food culture and champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability. As a 501(c) (3) national non‑profit organization, JBF brings its mission to life through the annual James Beard Awards, industry and community‑focused initiatives and programs, advocacy, partnerships, and events across the country.

Director of Brand Partnerships – Responsibilities

Strategically cultivate targets, prospects, and proposals in line with JBF's voice, mission, and values

Manage sponsor outreach pipeline with event production partners, external agencies, and consultants for a coordinated voice in the marketplace

Oversee the development of sponsor sales materials and tracking documents

Develop best‑in‑class, customized sponsorship proposals and reports in coordination with various departments to meet a corporate sponsorship goal of $12MM+ annually

Lead the valuation of current JBF program and event assets to ensure sponsor packages are delivering commensurate value year over year

Guide the development of sponsor benefit packages for emerging and evolving JBF programs (e.g., JBF Institute)

Partner with the JBF Marketing & Communications team and external agencies to concept effective digital and programmatic extensions

Draft sponsor contracts and route for review and execution

Maintain the current sponsor tracking document of pitched and confirmed partners against the revenue budget

Drive bi‑weekly sales meetings with all stakeholders who participate in the sales and activation process

Ensure sponsor payments are received and acknowledged accordingly

Prospect research

Keep abreast of key corporate moves and changes

Director of Brand Partnerships – Qualifications

Minimum of 8 years of experience working with corporate partners in an agency, non‑profit, or events setting

Experience working in special events, background in food media, and/or culinary a plus

Proven track record for corporate sales with successful delivery of 6‑ and 7‑figure contracts

High energy and passion for the James Beard Foundation's mission

Strategic thinker, creative problem solver, and excellent communicator with strong relationship management skills

Strong sense of initiative and a self‑starter with a drive for success

Excellent attention to detail, conscientious work ethic

Excellent ability to multitask, prioritize projects, and work efficiently and independently in a fast‑paced environment

Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Flexible and adaptable style

Tech savvy, proficient in MS Office, including PowerPoint, CRM systems (preferably Salesforce), AdobeAcrobatPro, Monday.com

Ability to deal effectively with the diversity of individuals at all organizational levels

Demonstrated ability to plan and organize projects

Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm

Benefits
JBF offers its employees a dynamic work environment with benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents; life insurance; flexible spending account; commuter benefits; retirement savings; employeeassistanceprogram; tuition reimbursement/ professional development; and generous paid time off. We also offer fertility planning support and up to18 weeksof paid parental leave.Additionalperksinclude staff events, tickets to events at Platform by JBF (Pier 57), and much more.

The Foundation currently works a hybrid schedule that requires employees to be in our NYC office 2 days per week. This position is not eligible for relocation.

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