Manager, Partnerships and Proposals

Job Description:

Summary: 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.

Proposal Development & Strategic Writing: 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.

Client Relationship Management: 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.

Program Execution & Project Management: 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.

Reporting & Performance Analysis: 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.

Retention & Renewal Strategy: 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.

Departmental Support & Collaboration: 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.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 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

Qualifications

Experience & Qualifications

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

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EEO Statement:

Scholastic is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam veteran. Those factors shall not influence the determination of qualifications for a job or other opportunity within the company. Further, all personnel actions (such as compensation, tuition aid, benefits, transfers, promotions, and dismissals, company-sponsored training, social and recreational programs) shall be administered without discrimination.

EEO is the Law Poster

EEO Scholastic Policy Statement

Pay Transparency Provision

Originally posted on Himalayas