The Vice President, Enterprise Partnership is a new role created to lead the strategy and management of the MLS enterprise’s most important partner - adidas. As the exclusive provider of on-field and sideline apparel for MLS Clubs, adidas has several marketing and brand initiatives which are integrated across multiple divisions, both at the League office and our Clubs.
As Vice President you will lead strategy and provide oversight of the management and execution of the adidas partnership across multiple cross-functional teams. This role will focus on the development, management, and execution of MLS/adidas joint initiatives that ensure customer success and growth, while helping the League advance its organizational priorities.
Responsibilities
Build and maintain a strong relationship with adidas, while ensuring the satisfaction and success of the MLS partnership
Define what is needed to support adidas’ strategy on an ongoing basis, and engage enterprise-level support (both League and Club Executive Leadership as well as League Dept. Heads) to deliver on partnership goals
Continually look for opportunities to strengthen our relationship by presenting solutions around League initiatives and programs that increase fan engagement and grow retail sales
Effectively engage key internal stakeholders to ensure appropriate actions are taken for risk mitigation and timely resolution of issues, while proactively highlighting challenges that need executive oversight and resolution
Provide oversight for the management and execution of all components of the adidas agreement which include:
Work with our Partnership Marketing team to ensure all contractual assets are delivered, including in- market Club agreements, and all key adidas initiatives are executed on time and within budget
Work with Consumer Products and Brand Marketing teams on projects and timelines as they relate to jersey development, product merchandising and retail placement
Work with the Player Relations team to oversee product compliance for all Academy teams and events
Work with the Digital Content and Brand Marketing teams to integrate content planning within larger adidas programs and initiatives
Work with Events and Properties team to oversee the execution of all activations at League events, e.g., All-Star, MLS Cup, and adidas dedicated events such as Generation adidas Cup
Oversee the preparation of presentations, recaps and other materials needed to manage and communicate program planning and status updates with key executives and stakeholders
In partnership with the Business Intelligence team and other key stakeholders, establish metrics to measure annual partnership success
Manage budgeting and the P&L plan
Support SVP, Brand Alliances with special projects as needed
Additional responsibilities as assigned
Bachelor’s Degree required; MBA preferred
12+ years of experience in strategic brand management, partnership marketing, merchandising and/or project management
Creative strategist with the ability to identify and commercialize big picture opportunities
Proven experience managing and motivating cross-functional teams
Superior organization and project management skills
Experience in presenting to senior management teams
Commitment to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance
Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both written and verbally
Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills
Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Desired Skills
Experience in the sports marketing and/or product industry
Knowledge of the sport of soccer
