The primary responsibility of the Sports Marketing Manager, Climb & Alpine, is to manage strategic development of our athletes and sponsorship partners across both disciplines. We are Athlete Tested, Expedition Proven. Our Athletes make up our Brand’s DNA. This roll works closely with the Sports Marketing Director to define our strategy and manage the go to market process between product, athlete and partners.
How You Will Make a Difference:
Works with the SM Director in building the athlete and event strategy so that it is aligned with the corporate initiatives and relevant category drivers. Works directly with Athletes and their agents to negotiate all endorsement terms. Works with internal cross-functional stakeholders (e.g. TNF Athletes, brand, account marketing, sales, digital, retail, sustainability, RDD and global counterparts on sports marketing team). As needed, conducts RFP’s that provide transparency that TNF has retained the most qualified agency(s) that can work within our budgets, maintain our high brand standards and bring to life the best possible customer experience. Establishes KPI’s and adjusts tactics as needed to realize the highest ROI.
Manages all aspects of The North Face partnerships within the Climb/Alpine category. Thoroughly researches and recommends those events, film partners, media houses and other industry opportunities that TNF should align with and invest in based upon our strategic objectives. Manages all internal and external communications surrounding event promotions so attendance goals are met both live and virtually. Negotiates and manages partner event budgets and contracts so the investment and impact is maximized and risk is minimized. Negotiates, manages and executes all aspects of partner contracts in a timely manner to ensure that these opportunities contribute to goals of the Outdoor strategic portfolio. Oversees the tactics associated TNF’s on-site activation so that it is on brand and tracking with established KPI’s. Works with internal stakeholders (TNF Athletes, brand, account marketing, sales, digital, retail, sustainability, RDD and global counterparts on sports marketing team) to ensure that the maximum impact of the event / partnership is realized.
Manages all aspects of The North Face Climb and Alpine Athlete Team Program based on the Sports Marketing strategy and how it supports corporate business objectives. Works closely throughout the year with each athlete to ensure career development and performance is maximized and their talents and skills are showcased throughout the TNF communication platform. Negotiates all athlete contracts, language and sets the structure of the compensation relative to budgets, performance and industry standards. Recruits new talent based upon set criteria for Global and National Team and how new talent will complement the overall team mix and team size requirements. Conducts annual athlete reviews that document the overall contributions of each athlete to the brand using various impression measurement tools and other established performance indicators.
In partnership with the Athlete Captain, this roll manages the annual Expedition Proposal and Approval process for Performance and Snowsports which supplies content for a variety of brand needs. Manages the communication with the athlete team that guides their proposal pitches, while also coordinating the internal review committee that ultimately decides which trips to support. Collaborates with the athlete leaders of the approved expeditions to see that budgets, logistics, gear requirements are fulfilled and brand objectives are communicated. Works with brand, RDD, digital, PR and other relevant internal stakeholders to ensure that all expedition objectives are met and maximized in accordance with the annual strategic plan and GTM initiatives.
Manages the Sr. Coordinator, Sports Marketing and oversees activation terms of each negotiated contract related to athletes, events, partnerships (e.g. placing product orders, processing invoices, regular budget management, ongoing athlete communication, tracking of social media, PR impressions, logistics of travel) and other daily actions required to support the business objectives.
Attends sales meetings, trade shows, events and the annual athlete summit as needed and/or assigns the appropriate attendee. Assists in the logistical planning and budgeting of these gatherings as requested by manager.
Track spending for both disciplines and update budget dashboards for real-time reporting.
Track and submit monthly accruals and expenses.
Years of Related Professional Experience: 7+ years
Educational/ Position Requirements:
BA or BS degree in Marketing, Business or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Marketing, People and Project Management experience within the industry is required.
Guiding, expedition logistics or outdoor education important.
Must possess effective communication, presentation and teamwork skills.
Writing and editing skills are essential.
Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential.
Excellent diplomacy and negotiation skills.
Overall understanding of the outdoor market, the competitive landscape and a participatory knowledge of the represented sports is helpful.
Proven track record of coordinating projects and timelines, and working with outside vendors.
Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced, deadline oriented environments.
Special Physical and/or Mental Requirements:
Travel by air and overnight, as required 25% of time.
