Director of Corporate Partnership Services | Lenoir-Rhyne University

Hickory, North Carolina, Location: Hickory, North Carolina Position Summary The Director of Corporate Partnership Services reports directly to the Associate Athletic Director for Athletic Revenue, Philanthropy and Partnerships. This position serves as the primary administrator responsible for sponsorship fulfillment, corporate partner activation, advertising execution and relationship management. The successful candidate will ensure corporate partnership agreements are executed effectively while delivering exceptional service and measurable value to LR Athletics corporate partners. This position will work collaboratively with athletics staff, campus partners and external stakeholders to maximize sponsor engagement, retention and satisfaction. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Manage all aspects of sponsorship fulfillment and activation for Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics corporate partners, providing day-to-day support for the comprehensive corporate partnership and sponsorship program. * Coordinate and execute all contractual sponsorship benefits, including signage, digital advertising, video board assets, hospitality opportunities, social media promotions, website advertising and game-day activations. * Ensure all sponsorship commitments are fulfilled accurately and on schedule through proof-of-performance tracking and reporting. * Develop and implement customized activation plans that maximize value for corporate partners while enhancing the fan experience. * Assist with sponsorship renewal efforts by providing partner recaps, performance reports and activation recommendations. * Maintain comprehensive records of sponsorship inventory, fulfillment schedules, contractual obligations and partner communications. * Collaborate with marketing, communications, operations and external staff to ensure successful delivery of sponsor benefits, particularly in conjunction with game-day presentation activities. * Assist with identifying and developing new sponsorship inventory and activation opportunities. * Support Bears Club events, fundraising initiatives and special events as assigned. Additional Responsibilities * Demonstrate a commitment to fiscal integrity and budget management. * Assist the Associate Athletic Director for Athletic Revenue, Philanthropy and Partnerships with corporate sponsorship sales initiatives and revenue-generation strategies. * Recruit and supervise student workers and interns. * Work diligently to foster an atmosphere of sportsmanship, NCAA compliance, professionalism and respect among staff, coaches and student-athletes. Application Process While completing the application, candidates will be prompted to submit: Resume Cover letter Three professional references The university’s mission, vision, and values statements may be reviewed using this link - https://www.lr.edu/about. Lenoir-Rhyne University promotes a welcoming campus environment that is integral to the university's commitment to excellence in engagement and education. We are particularly interested in candidates who have demonstrated experience nurturing a welcoming community, working with faculty, staff and/or students from all walks of life and/or incorporating varied perspectives and traditions in their current or previous positions. This commitment is rooted in our Lutheran tradition of fostering wisdom, nurturing vocation and preparing students for lives of purpose while serving the common good. Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy Lenoir-Rhyne University is committed to providing a workplace and educational environment, as well as other benefits, programs, and activities that are free from discrimination, harassment and retaliation. LR is committed to creating a safe campus environment for all members of the LR community, including, but not limited to, those who identify as transgender and gender non-conforming. To that end, LR does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex (including sex stereotypes and sex characteristics), ethnicity, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran or military status or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law. To ensure compliance with federal and state civil rights laws and regulations and to affirm its commitment to promoting the goals of fairness and equity in all aspects of the educational program, activity and employment, LR has developed internal policies and procedures that provide a prompt, fair and impartial process for those involved in an allegation of discrimination or harassment, and for allegations of retaliation. LR values and upholds the equal dignity of all members of its community and strives to balance the rights of the parties in the grievance process during what is often a difficult time for all those involved. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Qualifications * Minimum of three (3) years of experience in corporate partnerships, sponsorship activation, account management, marketing, event management, sales, or a related field preferred. Experience within intercollegiate athletics preferred. Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred. * Demonstrated excellence in customer service, relationship management, organizational skills, and project execution. Must possess strong communication skills, attention to details, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.  * Established record of success in the following key administrative functions is preferred: a) sponsorship fulfillment, b) corporate partnership activation, c) account management, d) event execution, e) customer relationship management.  This position will require travel and working variable hours, including nights and weekends. Other duties as assigned by the department's senior leadership team.