*This position is a 10-12 month contract based in Abu Dhabi*

The Head of Commercial and Partnerships acts as a focal point for the execution of the Local Organising Committee’s (LOC) commercial strategy and plan (including sales & fundraising, sponsorship & activation, ticketing, merchandising and licensing) to ensure the achievement of the full commercial potential of the Games.

Key focus will be on maximizing the remaining sales portfolio, prioritizing VIK requirements & partner opportunities whilst driving engagement through our sponsor channels (activation & fundraising) ensuring integration across the SOWG external engagement & marketing channels.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning & Strategy

• Lead the development and implementation of a functional area operating plan to ensure effective execution and alignment with programme milestones and budgets.
• Lead the development of a budget for the Commercial division and ensure adherence to the approved budget.
• Lead the development and execution of a commercial strategy and plan (includes fundraising, sponsorships, ticketing, merchandising and licensing) in line with AD SO LOC’s financial requirements to ensure the achievement of the full commercial potential of the Games.
• Oversee the performance of commercial functions (i.e. fundraising, sponsorships, and ticketing, merchandising and licensing), and implement corrective actions as necessary.
Sales
• Oversee prospects list, CRM sales pipeline, sales target tracking and milestones to manage information related to existing and potential sponsors and donors.
• Identify individuals, businesses, NGOs and government organizations that could be interested in sponsoring the Games or donating money.
• Develop, market and “sell” the complete SO games value proposition in coordination with the Media and Marketing division – creating go to market sales materials
• Identify and develop new sales properties that will unlock additional commercial revenues eg. Torch relay partners, Volunteer Partners, Healthy Athlete Zone, Young Athletes, Youth Summit
• Act on commercial opportunities with identified stakeholders, and manage contract negotiations.
• Actively maintain good working relationships and communication channels with donors and sponsors.
Activation & Servicing
• Influence all Sponsors & Partners to create a communications plan & put marketing budget behind their sponsorship to activate effectively and increase SOWG voice in the market.
• Develop the Strategic approach to Sponsorship Activation incorporating the legacy potential and lead the team in the delivery
• Identify and drive areas for consumer fundraising through Sponsors
• Ensure that effective account management systems are established for sponsors and donors.
• Oversee the delivery of rights for all partners and ensure all teams within the LOC delivery / service these rights
• Work with marketing to identify additional rights or opportunities for our sponsors with our media partners eg. Abu Dhabi TV interviews, Influencer partnerships, VICE Media Content opps
• Oversee the development and implementation of a CRM plan for sponsors and donors.
• Coordinate with the Finance and Accounts function to allocate funds based on donor and sponsor requirements, if any.
• Lead the coordination with other divisions with AD SO LOC to manage value in kind investments.
• Oversee third-party agencies, if engaged, to support fundraising efforts.

Ticketing

• Develop a ticket strategy that delivers against the LOC’s audience targets providing both commercial and engagement returns (eg, full stands)
• Scope and commission a ticketing partner to fulfill the LOC’s ticket obligations and ambitions
• Oversea the delivery of the ticketing partner and ensure relevant departments support / service as required eg. Operations, IT, Data, Guest Experience
• Work with marketing to ensure the ticket sales strategy is supported by a sales & marketing campaign to drive awareness and attendance

Measurement & Research

• Ensure we have the relevant measurement tools in place to service our partners and demonstrate ROI providing a platform to upsell / legacy opportunities

Legacy

• Develop a 4 year commercial proposition for Team UAE to ensure long term commitments & sustainability using the World Games as leverage
• Work with the legacy team to understand legacy opportunities post WG and upselling opportunities with partners to deliver legacy commitments
• Develop a sales strategy, prospects list and aim to secure partners for the Public Art Fund delivering a legacy beyond the World Games

Internal

• Chair the External Engagement Group (EEG)
• Liaise with SOI counterparts and establish an ongoing communication routine.
• Provide periodic reports to the CEO, CMO and CSO regarding overall commercial performance, and highlight issues for consideration.
• Manage the performance of team members and recommend appropriate actions.
• Perform other tasks that may be occasionally required in order to meet the requirements of the role and the aims of AD SO LOC.