Sponsorship and Development Manager

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, is currently seeking a Sponsorship and Development Manager.

Company Description

The National Cherry Blossom Festival produces and promotes the nation’s greatest springtime celebration in Washington, DC and is dedicated to promoting the beauty of nature and international friendship through year-round programs, events, and educational and entertainment initiatives that enhance our environment, showcase arts and culture, and build community spirit.

Job Description

The Sponsorship and Development Manager will be responsible for identifying, soliciting, securing, and nurturing relationships to support the Festival’s mission and financial goals. This role is a strategic thinker with strong marketing skills to create compelling sponsorship packages and deliver exceptional value to our partners. The Sponsorship and Development Manager has a clearly defined scope, and requires tact, discretion, and professionalism in representing the Festival to all levels of outside partners, sponsors, and audiences.

Responsibilities

In coordination with the Director of Development and Partnerships, the Sponsorship and Development Manager will participate in developing and executing long and short-range sponsorship and fundraising plans that will ensure the achievement of established objectives. They will participate in developing general and tailored proposals and presentations to be utilized in sponsor and donor solicitations.

The Sponsorship and Development Manager will also:

• Identify prospects, solicit, and secure sponsors
• Make in-person visits to prospects
• Handle incoming sponsorship inquiries
• Assist in creating marketing materials for sponsorship solicitation and outreach
• Write proposals and agreements
• Provide comprehensive and timely reports summarizing program activity and project status
• Serve as the primary internal liaison for all sponsorship deliverables at signature events, ensuring seamless communication and execution of sponsor commitments and expectations
• Support the review and approval process for sponsorship marketing and communications as well as program and event deliverables, ensuring alignment with sponsor agreements and brand guidelines
• Network and build relationships on behalf of the Festival
• Assist and support solicitation for fundraising teams for events including working with event host committees
• Responsible for execution of sponsor and donor benefits before, during, and after the Festival
• Manage and supervise volunteers and interns
• Maintain an organized record of all documents and contact information related to sponsor and partner involvement

Marketing

• Collaborate with marketing team to create integrated sponsorship packages that include digital, social media and on-site activations
• Develop marketing materials and presentations to effectively communicate sponsorship opportunities
• Utilize data and analytics to measure the success of sponsorship campaigns and provide insights for improvement

Event Coordination

• Work closely with the programming team to ensure seamless execution of sponsorship activation
• Coordinate sponsor-related logistics, including branding, signage and on-site presence
• Provide on-site support during the Festival to ensure sponsor satisfaction and address any issues

Relationship Management

• Cultivate strong relationships with sponsors, understanding their goals and objectives
• Regularly communicate with sponsors to provide updates and gather feedback
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance sponsor engagement and retention
• Create and deliver comprehensive recap reports at the conclusion of the Festival

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Business, or other related field preferred
• Minimum of three years’ experience with proven track record in sponsorship and/or fundraising development is required; corporate and major gift cultivation/solicitation
• Strong marketing skills with the ability to create compelling sponsorship packages
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. Internal and external to the organization
• Excellent time management, organizational skills, and ability to juggle and prioritize multiple projects; ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines and financial goals
• Superior communication and writing skills
• Passion for events and a creative mindset
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint and strong database management skills are necessary; Experience with Monday and Slack a plus
• Demonstrated desire and capacity to work collaboratively with colleagues, consultants, and volunteers
• Attention to detail, high productivity, and concern for accuracy and excellence
• Must be a self-starter, proactive and driven, with a strong work ethic, a high level of motivation, a strong sense of urgency when needed, the ability to work without direct supervision

As an integral part of the NCBF team, this full time, salaried exempt position participates fully in the production and execution of Festival events. This requires flexibility to be available evenings and weekends and to work additional hours during peak periods.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer competitive salary of $65,000-$70,000 commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, 401k plan, transit subsidy, 12 paid holidays, sick and annual leave, and more. Convenient downtown location near multiple Metrorail and bus lines.