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.

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Scope of Work

This person will aid the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Programming Team primarily focusing on event operations and administrative tasks.

EVENT PRODUCTION

• Develop and execute all production and logistical plans and timelines to include:

• Programmatic elements
• Food and beverage
• Sponsorship activations and benefits fulfillment
• Event logistics

• Manage vendors, supplies, and equipment related to production and logistical matters including, but not limited to:

• Communications (ex: radios)
• Site/Venue Management
• Contingency Planning
• Warehouse Management (transport logistics)
• Fencing
• Golf Carts
• Health and Safety (EMS, Fire, etc)
• Operations
• Parking
• Power
• Restrooms
• Safety & Security
• Signage and Collateral
• Sound, Lighting, and Staging
• Staffing
• Tents, Tables, and Chairs
• Traffic and Transportation Management
• Waste Management

• Obtain price quotes and contracts as needed.

• Work closely with the Director of Programming, Programming Team, Sponsorship, and Marketing Team to develop and implement Production Plans.

• Liaise with and fulfill logistical needs of external providers of the programmatic elements, food and beverage, and sponsorship activations and benefits fulfillment.

• Maintain inventory of equipment and supplies in storage.

• Manage site plans and asset management documents.

• Assist Festival staff in liaising with venue representatives.

• Assist Festival staff in liaising with local community.

• Attend and conduct necessary meetings and site visits.

• Keep the Festival apprised of financial, production, and logistical issues.

EVENT MANAGEMENT

• Work with Director of Programming and other specialized coordinators to curate the programmatic elements of events.

• Be the liaison between the Programming Team and Business Operations Team to process necessary paperwork including service agreements, purchase orders, invoices and expense vouchers.

• Assisting in financial management for each Event, including: a) input and assessment of a detailed line itemed budget for each Event; b) reviewing and checking for accuracy all Event-related bills; and c) completing NCBF paperwork and procedure for payments to Event vendors.

• Assist Event Managers with scheduling, email correspondence, and other administrative tasks as needed.

EVENT OPERATIONS

• With Director of Programming, develop staff assignments and management plan including roles and responsibilities, timing of shifts, use of in-house staff versus procuring day-off staff, and costs for the day of staff.

• Develop, implement and train staff, vendors and volunteers on: a) health, safety, security and weather analysis / contingency plans for Events; b) Transportation and traffic management plans for Events; and c) crowd flow and control management plans for Events.

• Acquire documentation and approvals related to all required permits and applications (District of Columbia agencies & National Park Service).

• Develop and coordinate with marketing design manager on design and feedback of Event signage and any additional collateral materials created

ON-SITE LOGISTICS & MANAGEMENT

• Oversee load-in and load-out.

• Manage vendors, equipment, and supplies.

• Work closely with the Operations Crew to ensure the Production Plan is being implemented accurately.

• Establish and manage the Operations Center in cooperation with Festival staff and lead volunteers.

• Monitor and resolve any production and logistical issues that may arise.

ON-SITE SUPPORT

In addition to duties outlined above, the Operations Manager is expected to lead the load-in, day-of support, and load-out for all 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival events*, including but not limited to:

• Launch/Artwork Reveal: November 21, 2024
• Press Conference: TBD early March 2025
• Pink Tie Party: March 14, 2025
• Opening Ceremony: March 22, 2025
• Blossom Kite Festival / Sakura Taiko Fest: March 29, 2025
• Petalpalooza®: April 5, 2025
• National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®: April 12, 2025
• Dates subject to change

OTHER FESTIVAL SUPPORT

• Participate in weekly All Team meetings to gain thorough understanding of the inner workings of the Festival
• Participate in weekly Programming Team meetings to gain thorough understanding of the programming plan and contribute to the success of the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival’s programs and events.
• Assist Programming Team with additional needs as they arise.
• Stay flexible and adaptable to the needs of the Programming Team as changes continue to occur.

POST-EVENT/ DELIVERABLES

• Inventory equipment and remaining supplies.
• Coordinate the return of any supplies to sponsors and/or ensure proper storage of supplies.
• Storage spaces.
• Thank you notes.
• Ensure the final version of documents are updated and located in the appropriate location in the server.
• Assist with final payments and budget reconciliation.
• Create a wrap-up report.

Compensation

$60,000.00. This position is not eligible for benefits

Time Commitment

9 month Contract Role – October 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025

• Estimated hours:
• October 1 – December 20, 2024: 40 hrs/week
• January 6 – February 28, 2025: 40 hrs/week
• March 3 – April 12, 2025: 40 hrs/week
• April 13 – June 30, 2025: 20 hrs/week

• Attend weekly programming meetings

• Attend planning meetings and event rundown meetings

• On-site events including weekend Festival events, nighttime events

• Ability to work at Festival office (Downtown, DC) at least three days per week

Qualifications

• Past experience in event production for large public events in outdoor settings

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in operations management, business administration, or related field

• Multiple years of financial and account reporting experience

• Ability to effectively communicate

• Detail oriented and organized with an ability to multi-task

• Ability to demonstrate calm under pressure and manage a variety of people

• Capable of doing physical work (lifting boxes, being on your feet for long hours, event set-up, etc.)

• Comfortable working in both office and outdoor settings (rain, cold, mud, sun, wind, etc.)

• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and troubleshoot difficult situations

• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office required; familiarity with Slack, Monday.com, and Photoshop preferred

Click here to apply

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, is currently seeking a full-time, temporary Community Outreach & Events Coordinator. This is a temporary (mid-October 2024 to June 2025) full-time (up to 40 hours/week) position.

Company Description

The National Cherry Blossom Festival produces and promotes the nation’s greatest springtime celebration 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.

The Community Outreach & Events Coordinator will provide essential administrative support for community programs and events. This role involves assisting in all aspects of community programs and partnerships for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, including opportunities to engage with local residents and businesses participating in the Festival. The position has a well-defined scope and requires tact, discretion, and professionalism when representing the Festival to external partners, sponsors, and audiences. The Community Outreach & Events Coordinator will report directly to the Community Partnerships Manager and support by carrying out the following responsibilities:

Responsibilities:

In coordination with the Community Partnerships Manager, the Community Outreach & Events Coordinator is responsible for the administrative and logistics management and support for community partnerships and programs. This role will:

Community Programs and Partnerships

· Provide administrative and logistics support for the department, focusing on programs including, but not limited to, Kites in the Classroom, Blossom Kicks for Kids, Blossom Tea Party, and other community initiatives.

· Assist with planning and executing special projects and events such as Oxon Run Pinknic.

· Provide support for onsite partnership execution at signature events and community programs.

· Provide support for various aspects of the City in Bloom program and assist in coordinating efforts with local businesses and residents

· Provide administrative and logistics support for City in Bloom, Cherry Picks, and Hotel programs and other task as assigned

· Facilitate the Signature Blossom Decal program inventory and coordinate distribution strategy.

· Track program participation as directed by the Community Partnerships Manager.

· Monitor and enforce program participation requirements to ensure compliance.

· Assist with program reporting and data collection, post-Festival report, and providing detailed feedback

Qualifications

· One or more years of experience directly related to the duties of the position or

· Excellent time management, organizational skills, and ability to juggle and prioritize multiple projects

· Superior communication and writing skills

· Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint and strong database management skills are necessary

· 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 and consistently meet deadlines

· Easily adapt to changing circumstances

Click here to apply