Director of Strategic Partnerships and Membership Development
SAN DIEGO, CA
Position Overview
The USS Midway Museum is seeking a Director of Strategic Partnerships and Membership Development to drive growth through strategic sponsorships and membership initiatives. Reporting directly to the President/CEO, the Director will lead efforts to secure corporate sponsorships, foster long-term partnerships, and enhance membership engagement. Join us in advancing our mission to preserve, inspire, educate and entertain aboard one of the most iconic aircraft carriers in history.
Compensation & Benefits:
· Salary – $125,000 – $145,000
· Medical, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance.
· 403(b) retirement plan matching 100% of the employee contribution up to 6%, with immediate vesting.
· 15 vacation days, 10 days of accrued paid sick days per year, and 10 paid holidays.
· Annual discretionary bonus program
Key Responsibilities:
· Design and implement a comprehensive strategy to secure revenue-generating partnerships with corporate brands at the local, regional, and national levels.
· Conduct thorough market research to identify prospects and cultivate relationships that align with Midway’s mission and programs.
· Manage all phases of sponsorship sales, from proposal development to contract negotiation and benefit fulfillment.
· Lead sponsorship acquisition for the Midway American Patriot Award Gala to support education programs.
· Collaborate with the events team to ensure seamless planning and execution of the Gala.
· Secure sponsorships to fund the San Diego Veterans Day Parade and other departmental initiatives.
· Work closely with the Marketing Department to create and maintain compelling promotional materials that communicate the value of sponsorship and membership opportunities.
· Develop brochures, web content, and other collateral that effectively engage corporate sponsors and individual members.
· Oversee membership operations to drive acquisition, renewal, upgrades, and engagement strategies for individual and family memberships.
· Optimize the use of the Museum’s CRM platform, managing vendor/consultant relationships to ensure efficiency and data integrity.
Qualifications and Experience:
· Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
· Experience: Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in managing six-figure corporate sponsorship programs and developing successful corporate partnerships.
· Demonstrated success in cultivating, negotiating, and renewing high-value sponsorship agreements.
Skills:
· Strong strategic thinking with the ability to conceive and execute partnership marketing programs.
· Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating sponsorship value and driving successful negotiations.
· Deep knowledge of corporate sponsorship trends, marketing strategies, and relationship management best practices.
· Proficiency in MS Office and CRM platforms, with outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail.
· Collaborative team player with the ability to work cross-functionally
Additional Requirements:
· Physical Requirements: Ability to climb stairs/ladders, lift up to 20 pounds, and adapt to the unique work environment of a decommissioned aircraft carrier.
· Work Environment: This position operates aboard a historic aircraft carrier, requiring flexibility and enthusiasm for working in a distinctive setting.
Be part of a team that shapes the future by preserving the past. Apply now to lead impactful initiatives that make a difference in our community and beyond.