Associate Director

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.Specifically, you willLead school and district partnerships and contract developmentDrive revenue generation, including training and development opportunitiesBuild and manage a strong pipeline of prospective partnersCultivate and maintain corporate and community relationshipsSupport regional fundraising and sponsorship effortsRepresent Playworks externally across schools, districts, corporate, and community stakeholdersKey ResponsibilitiesIdentify target market segments and establish impact and financial goalsOwn and manage a full sales pipeline from prospecting through close, including identifying opportunities, advancing relationships, and converting partnershipsOwn and meet or exceed revenue targets through contract development and partnership growthDevelop and execute sustainability plans for school and district partnershipsCollaborate with the Executive Director on revenue strategy and regional growthPartner closely with the Associate Program Director to ensure alignment between partnerships and program delivery, maintaining a strong and consistent partner experienceHost site visits and build relationships within school, district, corporate, and community networksGather and apply market insights to inform regional growth strategy and opportunity developmentServe as a key external representative of Playworks across the regionExercise sound judgment in prioritizing opportunities and advancing partnerships aligned with regional strategyTeam LeadershipSupport hiring, onboarding, and development of partnership-focused rolesSupervise and support:Associate Program DirectorRegional Partnership Manager Success in This Role RequiresDemonstrated ability to generate revenue and close partnershipsStrong external presence with the ability to build credibility with school, district, corporate, and community leadersExperience managing a full pipeline from prospecting through closeStrategic thinking and the ability to identify and act on growth opportunitiesAbility to operate independently with a high level of ownership and accountabilityStrong communication and presentation skills across a range of audiencesAbility to take ownership quickly and operate with increasing independence over timeRequired Skills & Experience7+ years of experience in partnerships, sales, development, or a related field, with demonstrated success in revenue generationProven ability to generate revenue and close contractsStrong relationship-building and external communication skillsExperience working with or within schools, districts, or community organizationsAbility to manage multiple priorities and meet ambitious goalsLOCATION & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTSLocation: This role is based in Southeast Michigan and requires consistent in-person engagement with school, district, and community partners.Travel: 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.Compensation & BenefitsPlayworks offers the full package - great benefits, a fun place to work and an opportunity to grow professionally.This is a full-time, exempt position based in Southeast Michigan reporting to the Executive Director.At Playworks, our starting salary takes into consideration internal pay scales, geographic pay differential, and robust external market data. We highly value transparency in compensation and are therefore committed to adhering to established compensation pay points. The starting salary for this position is $94,800.A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, 401(k) plans with employer match of up to 1% of salary, life insurance, employee-funded pre-tax health, and child care spending accounts.Generous Flex PTO policy, paid sick and holiday leave.This is a hands-on, creative, playful, and fun-loving place to work, all while contributing to the success of our nation’s youth. So if you're ready to immerse yourself in the education sector, working on a rewarding set of challenges, and if you've got the skills, experience, passion, and a team spirit, apply!Please IncludeA cover letter describing your interest in Playworks and how your experience has prepared you for this role.Resume.References will be requested.ABOUT PLAYWORKS: At Playworks, we believe in the power of play to bring out the best in every kid. We create a place for every kid on the playground to get active, build valuable skills, connect, and have fun. We partner with schools, districts, and after-school programs to provide a service or mix of services, including on-site coaches, professional training for school staff who support recess, and consultative partnerships.As an equal opportunity program, Playworks encourages applications from all individuals regardless of age, gender, gender identity/expression, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, faith, marital status, physical ability, or any other legally protected basis. Playworks evaluates all candidates for employment, volunteering opportunities, or board service on a merit basis.