Associate Director - Michigan

Playworks•Detroit, MI

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Playworks Michigan, we are building the next phase of our growth and impact. We are seeking a results-driven leader to expand partnerships, drive revenue, and strengthen relationships across schools, districts, and communities throughout Michigan and Ohio. This is a high-ownership role for someone who thrives in building from opportunity, closing partnerships, and shaping the future of play-based youth development. As the Associate Director, you will be responsible for leading revenue generation, partnerships, and growth strategy for Playworks Michigan. This includes building and managing school and district partnerships, corporate and community relationships, and contributing to the region’s financial sustainability. This is a full-time, exempt position that reports directly to the Executive Director. PRIMARY FOCUS OF THE ROLE Lead school and district partnerships and contract development Drive revenue generation, including training and development opportunities Build and manage a strong pipeline of prospective partners Cultivate and maintain corporate and community relationships Support regional fundraising and sponsorship efforts Represent Playworks externally across schools, districts, corporate, and community stakeholders

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to generate revenue and close partnerships
Strong external presence with the ability to build credibility with school, district, corporate, and community leaders
Experience managing a full pipeline from prospecting through close
Strategic thinking and the ability to identify and act on growth opportunities
Ability to operate independently with a high level of ownership and accountability
Strong communication and presentation skills across a range of audiences
Ability to take ownership quickly and operate with increasing independence over time
7+ years of experience in partnerships, sales, development, or a related field, with demonstrated success in revenue generation
Proven ability to generate revenue and close contracts
Strong relationship-building and external communication skills
Experience working with or within schools, districts, or community organizations
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet ambitious goals
This position must be based in Southeast Michigan and requires consistent in-person engagement with school, district, and community partners.
This role includes periodic travel across Michigan and Ohio to support school, district, and partner engagement. Travel may include occasional day trips and limited overnight travel based on partnership and regional needs.

Responsibilities

Identify target market segments and establish impact and financial goals
Own and manage a full sales pipeline from prospecting through close, including identifying opportunities, advancing relationships, and converting partnerships
Own and meet or exceed revenue targets through contract development and partnership growth
Develop and execute sustainability plans for school and district partnerships
Collaborate with the Executive Director on revenue strategy and regional growth
Partner closely with the Associate Program Director to ensure alignment between partnerships and program delivery, maintaining a strong and consistent partner experience
Host site visits and build relationships within school, district, corporate, and community networks
Gather and apply market insights to inform regional growth strategy and opportunity development
Serve as a key external representative of Playworks across the region
Exercise sound judgment in prioritizing opportunities and advancing partnerships aligned with regional strategy
Supervise and support: Associate Program Director, Regional Partnership Manager
Support hiring, onboarding, and development of partnership-focused roles