Interim Sponsorships and Corporate Giving Director (Temporary, Part-Time)

About Race Forward

Race Forward's mission is to advance racial justice by supporting communities and public institutions to build a just, multiracial democratic society where people of color thrive with purpose and power.

Rooted in a deep understanding of systemic racism, our work supports stronger, more equitable governance that shifts power and transforms institutions. Race Forward imagines a future where communities of color lead in decision-making, public systems are accountable and just, and movements across sectors come together to create lasting and transformative change.

Since 1981, Race Forward has continued to develop innovative strategies that drive impact at the intersection of policy, culture, and institutional practice. In 2017, Race Forward united with the Center for Social Inclusion to become the new Race Forward, strengthening its commitment to advancing systems that truly work for everyone.

Position Summary

The Interim Sponsorships and Corporate Relations Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for Race Forward's corporate giving and event sponsorship programs during a temporary leave period.

Working closely with the Vice President of Development and Partnerships the contractor will ensure continuity in relationship management, solicitation, stewardship, and revenue generation with Race Forward's business community.

This is a fast-paced, results-oriented assignment requiring a seasoned fundraising professional who can join the team seamlessly, operate with independence, and deliver immediate impact. The ideal contractor will be laser-focused on closing sponsorship deals and driving corporate revenue to meet and exceed fundraising goals during this critical giving season.

Duties and Responsibilities

• This role will hit the ground running with an established pipeline of more than 70 prospective and current corporate partners and sponsors. The contractor will be responsible for advancing these relationships through outreach, cultivation and closing sponsorship agreements that drive near-term revenue results.
• Quickly onboard and assume leadership of the corporate giving portfolio, maintaining momentum with current and prospective sponsors.
• Drive revenue growth through active solicitation and closing of sponsorships, with a focus on Facing Race taking place in November 2026.
• Manage and execute Race Forward's corporate giving and event sponsorship solicitation to meet FY25–26 revenue targets ($1 million goal).
• Steward existing corporate partners through timely communication, impact reporting, and recognition touchpoints.
• Develop compelling proposals, sponsorship decks, agreements, and acknowledgments in coordination with the Communications and Finance teams.
• Identify, research, and engage new corporate funders to build on the existing FY26+ pipeline.
• Collaborate with events and program teams to deliver sponsorship benefits for Facing Race, the GARE Membership Meeting, and related initiatives.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in Salesforce and other fundraising systems.
• Provide weekly progress updates and prepare a written transition memo summarizing pipeline status, commitments, and next-step recommendations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong strategic and relational skills with corporate executives, brand partners and funders.
• Excellent proposal writing, negotiation, and verbal communication abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial justice and experience applying equity frameworks to partnership development.
• Highly organized, self-directed, and collaborative in a remote team environment.
• Proficiency with Salesforce, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office; experience with Classy or marketing automation tools preferred.
• A plus for a candidate who holds existing corporate/funder relationships specifically in Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 7 years' experience in corporate giving, sponsorship, or cause marketing for nonprofits or social impact organizations.
• Proven track record in closing six- and seven-figure corporate partnerships and managing renewals.

Additional Information

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

How to Apply

External Applicants: To apply for this position, please click the link below. To ensure full consideration, please be sure to include both a cover letter and resume with your application.

https://raceforward.isolvedhire.com/jobs/

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

Race Forward is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Race Forward will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources at HRSupport@RaceForward.org.

EEO Statement

Race Forward provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.