Back Group

Business Development & Partnerships Manager

Position Summary

The Business Development & Partnerships Manager drives earned revenue and corporate sponsorships. This role leads fee-for-service business development while building strategic corporate partnerships that support programs and events. This is a relationship-focused, sales-driven role responsible for expanding revenue, growing client and sponsor pipelines, and advancing long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Earned Revenue (65%)

  • Build and manage a robust pipeline of prospective clients for fee-for-service offerings (e.g., public art, creative services, consulting, event rental or related programs)
  • Identify, cultivate, and secure new business opportunities aligned with organizational capabilities
  • Lead the full sales lifecycle: prospecting, outreach, proposal development, negotiation, and closing
  • Align client needs with program delivery, timelines, and capacity
  • Maintain client relationships to drive repeat business
  • Contribute to organizational revenue planning and forecasting by providing accurate sales projections and pipeline insights

Corporate Sponsorships & Strategic Partnerships (25%)

  • Develop and execute sponsorship strategies for major programs, events, and initiatives
  • Create tailored sponsorship packages
  • Identify and cultivate new corporate partners
  • Manage sponsor relationships to ensure strong retention and growth
  • Align sponsor messaging with marketing and organizational goals
  • Leverage overlap between clients and sponsors to deepen engagement and revenue opportunities

Event & Relationship Engagement (10%)

  • Attend key fundraising and cultivation events to build relationships with corporate partners and clients
  • Support sponsor engagement and stewardship at events (not responsible for event logistics)
  • Represent the organization externally with professionalism and enthusiasm

Requirements

Qualifications Required

  • 5+ years of experience in business development, sales, partnerships, or related field
  • Proven track record of meeting or exceeding revenue targets
  • Experience managing a sales pipeline and closing deals
  • Strong relationship-building and communication skills
  • Ability to think strategically while executing tactically
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through

Preferred

  • Experience in nonprofit, arts, or mission-driven organizations
  • Background in sponsorship sales or corporate partnerships
  • Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce)
  • Experience working across teams to deliver complex projects or services

Key Competencies

  • Results-driven and revenue-oriented, with an entrepreneurial and proactive approach
  • Strong communicator and skilled negotiator
  • Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and follow-through
  • Able to manage multiple priorities while consistently delivering on commitments
  • Demonstrates strong relationship-building skills, both internally and externally
  • Provides a high level of client service, ensuring a positive and responsive partner experience
  • Collaborative team player who works effectively across functions
  • Adaptable and responsive, with the ability to adjust approach and demeanor to meet changing needs and priorities

Salary Description $50,000 - $60,000

Apply Group