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Role Overview (This is a 12 month fixed term contract)
Our client, a premier Dublin venue, is seeking an accomplished and visionary professional to take on the role of Head of Sponsorship & Partnerships. This is a rare opportunity to lead a pivotal commercial function at one of Ireland’s most iconic institutions, with responsibility for a diverse portfolio that includes the Arena redevelopment, the Dublin Horse Show, and high-profile partnerships such as Leinster Rugby.
This role will suit a commercially astute, creatively minded leader with a proven track record in sponsorship and brand partnerships. The successful candidate will be a natural relationship-builder and strategic thinker, capable of crafting innovative, high-value collaborations that align with both partner goals and the broader mission of the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and implement a comprehensive sponsorship and partnership strategy that aligns with the commercial objectives and social impact mission.
* Identify new opportunities for brand alignment and create marketable, integrated partnership platforms.
* Collaborate with the Commercial Director and leadership team to shape the future of the arena and broader campus offering.
Business Development
* Drive proactive business development across all assets, including the arena, events, and exhibitions.
* Create and pitch customised, insight-led sponsorship proposals that appeal to leading local and global brands.
* Build and maintain a strong commercial pipeline while exploring new revenue avenues such as signage, activations, branded content, and digital experiences.
Partnership Management
* Oversee the delivery of existing third-party partnerships to the highest standard, ensuring the fulfilment of contractual rights and the creation of exceptional partner experiences.
* Lead key sponsorship relationships, including naming rights and high-value partners such as local sports teams.
* Negotiate and renew contracts to ensure continued value and strategic alignment for both parties.
Project & Performance Oversight
* Lead the planning and execution of sponsorship activations across the campus.
* Establish clear KPIs, reporting processes, and ROI metrics to monitor and optimise performance.
* Ensure all partnership deliverables are executed with professionalism and operational excellence.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Foster a collaborative culture internally, working closely with events, marketing, sales, and operations teams.
* Leverage external networks and bring industry insights into the organisation to inform strategy and innovation.
* Represent the organisation professionally at industry events, partner meetings, and stakeholder engagements.
Strategic Contributions
* Contribute to broader organisational initiatives and projects as directed by the CEO and senior leadership.
* Act as a key stakeholder in major redevelopment projects, ensuring sponsor and audience experience considerations are integrated into planning.
* Identify and support new business initiatives across the organisation through strategic input and commercial insight.
Candidate Profile
Experience & Expertise
* A minimum of 8 years' experience in sponsorship, brand partnerships, sports marketing, or related fields.
* Demonstrated success in securing and growing commercial partnerships with a strong business development focus.
* Deep understanding of brand marketing, sponsorship strategy, and partnership architecture.
Skills & Attributes
* Confident, persuasive communicator with the ability to engage senior-level stakeholders across multiple sectors.
* Strategic and creative thinker who thrives on identifying and converting opportunities.
* Experienced project leader with a hands-on approach to complex partnership delivery.
* Strong commercial awareness, with an ability to balance strategic vision with operational execution.
Core Competencies
* Strategic planning and commercial development
* High-level negotiation and contract management
* Stakeholder engagement and relationship-building
* Budget and performance management
* Knowledge of sponsorship trends in sport, culture, and entertainment
* Familiarity with CRM tools and Microsoft Office Suite
Seniority level
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
* Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Employment type
Contract
* Employment type
Contract
Job function
Job function
Business Development, Project Management, and Strategy/Planning
* Job function
Business Development, Project Management, and Strategy/Planning
* Industries
Hospitality, Entertainment Providers, and Broadcast Media Production and Distribution
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