Activation Manager, Events

Role Overview

• Lead end-to-end execution of sponsor and brand activations across FOS franchise and tentpole events
• Build and maintain detailed activation timelines, run-of-show documents, and production schedules for each event
• Develop activation plans and creative briefs in partnership with Partnership Marketing and Creative teams to ensure cohesive, brand-forward experiences
• Oversee on-site execution of all activations, serving as the primary point of accountability for quality control and real-time problem-solving
• Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for sponsor execution— managing expectations, tracking deliverables, and maintaining proactive communication throughout the campaign lifecycle
• Ensure all activations fulfill contractual obligations, adhere to brand guidelines, and are positioned to exceed sponsor campaign objectives
• Build strong sponsor relationships that support retention and upsell opportunities in partnership with the Account Management team
• Source, vet, and manage external vendors (production, fabrication, A/V, staffing, etc.), including RFP processes, contract negotiation, and budget tracking
• Maintain accurate budget reconciliation across all activations, flagging variances and proactively managing costs
• Coordinate closely with Events, Sales, Account Management, Partnership Marketing, Editorial, and Multimedia teams to ensure seamless integration of sponsor activations across all touch points
• Lead post-event activation recaps, including delivery against contractual assets, performance insights, and actionable recommendations for future activations
• Track activation metrics and contribute to broader sponsor reporting in collaboration with Account Management

Requirements

• 5
• 7 years of experience in experiential marketing, sponsorship activation, event production, or a related agency environment
• Proven track record owning end-to-end activation execution— from pre-event planning through on-site delivery and post-event wrap
• Strong project management skills with the ability to run multiple activations and sponsor relationships simultaneously in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment
• Excellent client-facing communication skills; experience managing sponsor or partner expectations and navigating ambiguity with confidence
• Experience sourcing and managing vendors, negotiating contracts, and budgets
• Highly detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to build clear, scalable processes
• Collaborative and solutions-oriented mindset; comfortable working cross-functionally and adapting quickly in a fast-moving environment
• Willingness to travel and work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends as events require
• Understanding of integrated marketing and how live events connect to broader sponsor campaign strategy
• Experience in sports, media, or entertainment environments
• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Event Management, or a related field preferred

Benefits

• Generous PTO policy to use as you please, plus sick time and company holidays
• Employer-sponsored health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision
• An annual professional development stipend and endless development opportunities at a growing startup
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan, complemented by a 3% company match. We believe in supporting your long-term financial goals
• Thrive in a dynamic environment with endless development opportunities at our growing startup