Overview:
The Global Experiential Marketing & Partnerships team leads 40+ partnerships globally, delivering the best in premium ticket access, live event and digital experiences across Card Member passion points of sports, music and various other cultural interests (B2B & B2C). The Director in this role will sit on the Sports Experiences & Partnerships team within the broader Experiential Marketing team, focusing specifically on American Express golf and tennis partnerships. This person is responsible for driving the strategic vision for American Express in these spaces, delivering critical brand and business metrics, while continuing to implement forward-looking innovation in the space. They will lead a team of two managers in developing and executing the strategies, activation plans and measurement of three priority partnerships, collaborating with a 360° cross-functional team (internal and external) to launch a fully integrated plan. Travel required (~10-15%) to execute onsite programs and visit event sites as needed. People management required.
Job Responsibilities:
Lead two direct reports while spearheading the strategy, creative development and execution of major golf and tennis partnership activations, bringing our brand to life for customers and prospects in new, innovative ways
Collaborate and lead robust set of internal and agency partners to deliver best-in-class plan, from briefing through execution and measurement
Lead planning and execution of executive hospitality program for key golf and tennis partnerships including guest communications, internal executive communications, accommodation/transportation management, ancillary experience planning and onsite program oversight
Partner with relevant agencies and internal stakeholders to lead all partnership evaluations, deal negotiations and contract reviews for partnership renewals and prospective new deals
Manage large scale budgets in partnership with Business Affairs team, ensuring close understanding of internal processes and ensuring project comes in at or under budget
Develop relationships across American Express enterprise to develop strategic sponsorship programs in support of business priorities relating to both business and consumer customers
Communicate regular updates and full activation plans in strategic, clear manner to American Express executives
Represent American Express within golf and tennis industries to deepen relationships, knowledge, and development to continue to be on cutting edge of customer experience
Qualifications
Minimum 7 years work experience with focus in sports sponsorship and experiential marketing/partnerships - golf industry experience required and B2B/hospitality experience a PLUS
Highly experienced in managing multiple high-profile partnerships
Strong executive presence and presentation skills
Exceptional people management skills and experience managing direct reports, partners, cross-functional teams and agency partners
High energy, self-starter, team-oriented, creative and entrepreneurial spirit
Must be able to balance “big picture” thinking with flawless execution
Maintain balance, strong leadership and composure while managing various work streams
Focus on innovation and constant appetite to know and learn more about the industry
Strong measurement and analytical skills
Bachelor’s degree required, MBA preferred
