Director of Development and Sponsorships

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, pitch, and close sponsorships and brand partnerships that leverage Hearst Bay Area's platforms, talent, and content.
• Work in close partnership with the Strategic Partnership Sales team to co-develop non-traditional revenue (NTR) programs that align with client objectives and drive incremental growth.
• Lead the go-to-market strategy for non-traditional revenue opportunities, including branded content, custom publishing, experiential marketing, podcasts, newsletters, and digital-first campaigns.
• Develop and monetize high-impact sponsorships, custom solutions, and editorially aligned content hubs that provide measurable value to both clients and audiences.
• Engage with large brand partners, regional businesses, and agencies to create innovative sponsorship solutions that serve both local and national marketing goals.
• Consistently meet or exceed revenue targets by cultivating a robust pipeline of prospects and managing sponsorship deal flow from concept through execution.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to create integrated, custom solutions tailored to client objectives across various verticals.
• Oversee the development of pitch decks, proposals, pricing strategies, and performance metrics for sponsorship campaigns.
• Proactively identify white space and create packaging that monetizes editorial moments, proprietary research, or emerging audience engagement opportunities.
• Act as a strategic liaison between the Strategic Partnerships team and departments including Marketing, Creative Services, Sales, Editorial, and Events.
• Inspire and lead a high-performance culture of innovation and collaboration within project teams.
• Represent the Strategic Sponsorships Team in leadership meetings and client presentations.
• Stay current on media trends, sponsorship best practices, and competitor offerings to ensure Hearst Bay Area remains a market leader in custom revenue solutions.
• Introduce and pilot new concepts for monetizing media, content, and event assets, with a focus on scalability and ROI.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in media partnerships, brand sponsorships, business development, or integrated marketing, preferably within a media company or agency environment.
• Proven track record of driving seven-figure revenue through non-traditional sales efforts and custom sponsorship deals.
• Exceptional storytelling, pitching, and negotiation skills with the ability to translate ideas into revenue-generating partnerships.
• Strong understanding of digital media, branded content, experiential marketing, and audience monetization strategies.
• Experience developing high-touch proposals and managing sponsorship activations end-to-end.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Creative thinker with a commercial mindset and entrepreneurial drive.
• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field; advanced degree a plus.

Nice to Have

• Experience within a media company or agency environment.
• Advanced degree in related fields.

Benefits & Perks

• Physical Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy.
• Invest for the Future: Competitive retirement plan with matching program in most markets.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Recharge with ample time off, including holidays and vacation.
• Paid Parental Leave: Support for growing families, with paid leave for new parents.
• Monthly Child & Dependent Care Reimbursement: Financial support for the care of your loved ones.
• Emotional Wellbeing: Be your best self with our mental wellness benefits.
• LGBTQ+ & Inclusive Health Services: Inclusive healthcare designed for every individual's needs.
• Fertility Coverage & Menopause Support: Assistance throughout family planning and health journeys.
• Pet Wellness Reimbursement & Rover Credits: Support for your pets' health and happiness.
• And more. Additional benefits and details available.