Manager, Partnerships and Proposals

Scholastic•XBF - Book Fairs No Office, FL

3d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager, Partnerships & Proposals is a dual-function role responsible for developing compelling sponsorship proposals and managing the execution and client relationships for assigned partnership programs. The ideal candidate is equally skilled at crafting strategic, audience-driven proposals that win new business and at managing sponsor relationships through the full program lifecycle, from onboarding through renewal. This role works closely with sales, marketing, and implementation teams, and is well-suited to someone who is a strong writer, a proactive communicator, and a disciplined project manager.

Requirements

Strong strategic writing and storytelling skills; ability to craft proposals that are clear, persuasive, and tailored to each client
Proven ability to build and maintain client relationships, demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and follow-through
Solid project management skills — organized, deadline-driven, and capable of managing multiple accounts simultaneously
Ability to translate program data and performance metrics into actionable client-facing narratives
Strong verbal communication skills; confident presenting to and engaging with sponsor clients
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite; comfort with proposal and project tracking tools
Creative problem-solver who can balance client expectations with Scholastic's revenue and operational goals
Collaborative team player who works effectively across departments
8-10 years of experience in a client-facing, marketing, or partnership role — ideally in a media, publishing, education, or sponsorship environment
Demonstrated track record of proposal writing, program marketing, or sales enablement
Experience managing client accounts or sponsor programs through a full cycle
Strong written communication skills with a portfolio or examples of client-facing work preferred
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
Flexibility to travel to client events as needed

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with budget management for sponsored programs ($50K–$1M+) a plus

Responsibilities

Lead the creation of high-impact, customized sponsorship proposals for prospective and renewing clients.
Translate client goals, Scholastic channel strengths, and program data into compelling narratives.
Develop proposal templates, program decks, and supporting collateral that reflect a consistent brand voice and drive new revenue.
Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned sponsor accounts.
Build trusted relationships by understanding each client's objectives, communication preferences, and evolving needs.
Provide regular program updates, address concerns proactively, and ensure clients feel supported throughout the partnership.
Manage assigned sponsorship programs from signed contract through renewal.
Coordinate internal teams (marketing, operations, product, sales) to ensure timely, high-quality delivery of all contracted program elements.
Maintain project timelines, track deliverables, and flag risks early.
Compile and present regular program performance reports for clients.
Analyze results against program objectives and use insights to inform renewal strategies, proposal positioning, and upsell opportunities.
Partner with Strategic Partnerships leadership and sales contacts to develop retention plans for assigned accounts.
Proactively engage clients to understand their evolving needs and position Scholastic solutions accordingly.
Contribute to proposal standards, brainstorm sessions, and departmental process improvements.
Support senior leadership in client meetings or on launch calls as needed.
Collaborate across teams to ensure Scholastic's programs meet client guidelines and internal standards.