Business Development Manager, Brand Partnerships

AKA NYC is a global, award-winning, full-service advertising agency specializing in theater & live entertainment, arts & culture, attractions & destinations, and sports & leisure. We are content-forward and data-fueled with a proven record of delivering cross-platform campaigns that get results. 

We are proud to partner with some of the most iconic names in entertainment, culture, and live experiences. Our client roster includes Broadway’s biggest shows, world-renowned institutions and museums, vibrant attractions, and dynamic sports organizations. From the magic of live theatre to the energy of stadiums and the wonder of cultural landmarks, we craft campaigns that connect audiences with real experiences – providing real stories, real emotions and real connections.

The Senior Manager, Brand Partnerships is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing strategic brand partnerships across AKA's portfolio of Broadway productions, cultural institutions, attractions, and live experiences. This role focuses on building relationships with prospective brand partners, developing new business opportunities, and collaborating with internal teams to bring partnerships to life.  

This role is focused on developing new business and securing strategic brand partnerships. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated track record of identifying and cultivating partnership opportunities, managing a pipeline from prospecting through execution, and negotiating mutually beneficial sponsorships. The ideal candidate has experience building relationships within the brand marketing community and is confident leveraging both existing connections and proactive outreach to develop new partnership opportunities. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO (IN BRIEF):

• Proactively identify and develop new brand partnership opportunities across AKA’s portfolio, leveraging your established network and proactive outreach.
• Build relationships with senior brand marketing decision-makers and manage opportunities from initial conversation through signed agreement.
• Lead partnership negotiations end-to-end: structure, terms, financial value, and contracting, in coordination with finance.
• Develop and negotiate creative, mutually beneficial partnerships that align brand objectives with the right opportunities across AKA’s portfolio.
• Determine the right model for each opportunity: sponsorship, two-way partnership, or promotion, based on commercial value exchange.
• Partner closely with the Head of Brand & Talent Partnerships and internal teams to develop outbound strategies and identify new categories and prospects.
• Serve as a point of contact for brand partners (VP/CMO level and above), separate from day-to-day show servicing.
• Contribute toward annual partnership revenue goals by developing and closing new partnership opportunities.
• Ensure signed partnerships are seamlessly transitioned to the relevant Partnership Manager and Group Account Director for activation and delivery.

• 4-6 years of experience in brand partnerships, corporate sponsorship sales, or brand marketing with direct P&L or revenue accountability.
• An existing network of brand marketing, sponsorship, and partnership contacts, with a demonstrated ability to convert relationships into strategic business opportunities. A proven track record independently originating and closing significant partnership or sponsorship deals, start to finish.  
• Strong commercial negotiation skills — comfortable structuring and defending deal terms.  
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to networking, relationship building, and business development.  
• Arts, entertainment, or theatre experience is a plus, but not required.

WHAT WE OFFER:
The salary range for this position in New York, NY is $70,000 to $75,000 per year.

The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and years of experience. A discretionary bonus may be provided as part of the total compensation package. AKA also offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and balance, including:

• Comprehensive healthcare & dental: 100% employer-paid for employees
• Generous PTO policy plus ½-day Summer Fridays to make the most of sunny days
• Hybrid work model – a balance of in-office collaboration (minimum three days per week) and flexibility
• Continuous growth & learning: Annual Training & Development fund to sharpen your skills
• Financial wellness perks: Student loan repayment or tuition assistance based on tenure
• Paid parental leave: Up to 12 weeks to support growing families
• Sabbatical opportunities: Recharge and return inspired with paid time off for long-term employees
• A pet-friendly office: because great ideas come with great company

A Note on Diversity and Inclusion 

At AKA we believe our team is at its best when we reflect the diversity of our community. We strive to hire and cultivate the best talent so when recruiting we work to actively reach and engage a wide community of people. We’re passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We believe a diverse team makes us smarter, more creative and helps us better understand the needs of the audiences we target with our campaigns.

AKA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. 

Sound like a good fit? We’d love to hear from you! Please apply through our website. No phone calls or walk-ins, please.