Sponsorship Activation Strategy Contractor

We are seeking a seasoned Sponsorship Activation Strategy Consultant to support the Customer Acquisition team in building and expanding a comprehensive sponsorship activation strategy. This role will play a critical part in shaping how sponsorships are activated across multiple channels to drive brand impact, customer acquisition, and measurable ROI.

The successful candidate will operate independently while partnering closely with cross-functional teams across marketing, data & technology, creative, and operations. This role is ideal for a strategic, execution-oriented professional who thrives in ambiguity, brings strong experiential marketing expertise, and can translate sponsorship agreements into high-impact activation plans.

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid – 4 days in office)
Contract Length: 12 Months (Extension or FTE Conversion Possible)
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM CST
Pay: $62-$72

• Develop and execute a broad, enterprise-level sponsorship activation strategy aligned with customer acquisition and brand objectives.
• Partner cross-functionally with marketing, data & technology, creative, and operations teams to ensure cohesive execution.
• Oversee end-to-end sponsorship activation efforts, including ideation, planning, execution, tracking, and measurement.
• Manage activation across multiple channels, including events, hospitality, digital, and experiential platforms.
• Create detailed activation plans aligned with sponsorship agreements and brand guidelines.
• Identify opportunities to enhance partner visibility and maximize return on investment.
• Track performance metrics and assess activation effectiveness to inform optimization and future strategy.
• Prepare and deliver clear, compelling presentations to senior stakeholders and partners.
• Navigate ambiguity and evolving priorities while maintaining strategic focus and execution discipline.

Required

• 5–7 years of hands-on sponsorship activation experience.

• 2–3 years of experience leading cross-functional sponsorship activation strategy.

• Strong experiential marketing background.

• Proven ability to build and articulate strategic frameworks.

• Excellent presentation and stakeholder communication skills.

• Strong collaboration skills with diverse internal teams.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities.

• Ability to operate independently and manage work in ambiguous environments.

Preferred

• Post-secondary degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.

• Prior experience within financial services or a regulated industry.