Sponsorship Director - The Bay Ride

We are seeking a visionary Sponsorship Director to join us at this pivotal moment in our growth. This role will be instrumental in securing and nurturing corporate partnerships that align with our mission of uniting cycling advocacy groups, creating a region-wide celebration of cycling culture, and building bridges between Bay Area communities through cycling.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sponsorship strategy that supports our ambitious vision of transforming Bay Area cycling, including both our signature ride and broader community initiatives
• Create innovative sponsorship packages that offer partners the opportunity to be part of a historic transformation in Bay Area cycling culture
• Identify and secure partnerships with organizations committed to active transportation, community development, and outdoor access
• Build relationships with civic leaders and community organizations across all nine Bay Area counties to support our vision of synchronized cycling festivals
• Design and implement sponsor activation strategies that enhance both our one-day event and year-round community impact
• Collaborate with advocacy groups and cycling organizations to create unified sponsorship approaches that benefit the entire cycling ecosystem

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sponsorship sales, corporate partnerships, or related business development roles
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sponsorship revenue targets and building long-term partnerships
• Deep understanding of the Bay Area's corporate, civic, and cycling communities
• Experience with multi-stakeholder initiatives and community-based events
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Experience with CRM systems and proficiency in Google Office Suite

Required Skills

• Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities
• Strategic thinking and ability to articulate our transformative vision to potential partners
• Established network within the Bay Area corporate and civic community
• Experience in managing complex stakeholder relationships across multiple jurisdictions
• Proven ability to close sponsorship deals
• Understanding of cycling culture and active transportation initiatives

Preferred Qualifications

• Personal connection to cycling and outdoor recreation
• Experience with large-scale sporting events or city-wide celebrations
• Knowledge of Bay Area transportation and infrastructure landscape
• Background in community organizing or advocacy work
• Experience working with multiple municipal governments

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Open to a blend of up front, monthly or other stipend along with a generous percent bonus.
• Flexible work arrangements
• Opportunity to shape the future of cycling in the Bay Area