Partnership Activation Manager

Title: Partnership Activation Manager

Department: Partnership Services

Reports to: Manager, Global Partnership Activation

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

We’re looking for a dynamic and experienced Partnership Activation Manager to join our team! In this pivotal role, you’ll be responsible for managing a multi-million-dollar portfolio of corporate partners, delivering measurable value through strategic, data-driven solutions, and crafting unforgettable fan-first experiences. You'll play a key part in nurturing long-term, trusted relationships while uncovering new opportunities to grow and evolve our partnerships.

This role manages the full partnership lifecycle, from executing marketing initiatives to identifying new avenues for business growth. You’ll work cross-functionally with departments such as Marketing, Game Entertainment, Ticket Sales, and Arena Operations to deliver seamless, high-impact activations. Occasional travel may be required.

If you have account management experience, particularly in sports marketing, excel at building client relationships, and have a passion for brand activation, we’d love to hear from you. Ideal candidates will be persuasive communicators who can effectively manage a diverse partnership portfolio and activate compelling campaigns that align with both partner and franchise goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for an assigned portfolio of corporate partners, representing the Kings with professionalism and enthusiasm

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key partners and stakeholders

• Act as a strategic advisor to partners, offering guidance rooted in sports marketing expertise

• Lead renewal conversations and negotiate incremental opportunities with existing partners

• Provide mentorship to junior team members, supporting their development and success

• Oversee the execution and delivery of customized marketing and activation programs that meet partner objectives

• Regularly communicate campaign progress, milestones, and outcomes to both internal teams and partners

• Collaborate on performance metrics that measure partnership impact (e.g., brand awareness, fan engagement, digital traffic)

• Deliver consistent reporting on partnership performance, account health, and renewal outlooks

• Partner with the sales team to identify and pursue upsell or cross-sell opportunities

• Address client feedback and resolve issues quickly and effectively to ensure satisfaction

• Participate in special projects and contribute to department-wide initiatives as needed

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field

• 3–5 years of experience in partnership activation, account management, or a related field; sports marketing experience strongly preferred

• Proven success managing and growing high-value accounts and working with executive-level stakeholders

• Proficiency in CRM and analytics tools such as Salesforce, KORE, Nielsen, Zoomph, Tableau, Canva, Photoshop, and PowerPoint

• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute impactful, client-focused marketing solutions

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence, negotiate, and build consensus

• Analytical mindset with the ability to assess performance metrics and translate insights into actionable strategies

Compensation:

• Base Salary: $60,000 - $65,000

• Bonus: Eligible for competitive team bonus pool

Total compensation & offer package will include the following:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits for employees and dependents

• Paid Time Off + 11 Paid Holidays + Summer Fridays

• Employer 401(k) match

• Cell Phone Stipend

• Sacramento Kings home game tickets, team store discounts, and more!