Global Football Innovation Academy
Head of Partnerships & Business Development
Global Football Innovation Academy, Houston, Texas, United States, 77246
Head of Partnerships & Business Development
GFI is one of the fastest-growing youth soccer organizations in Texas, operating across competitive, recreational, educational, and non-profit verticals. We are building more than a sports academy — we are creating an ecosystem with real community, social, and business impact.
We are looking for a Houston-based, highly connected business development leader to drive sponsorships, strategic partnerships, and fundraising initiatives across both our for-profit and non-profit platforms.
This role is ideal for someone deeply rooted in the Houston business, corporate, and philanthropic community who can open doors, build long-term relationships, and generate new revenue streams.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and execute sponsorship strategy for GFI across sports, education, events, and community initiatives
Secure corporate sponsors and strategic partners at local, regional, and national levels
Design and lead fundraising campaigns for GFI’s non-profit entities (corporate giving, foundations, high-net-worth individuals, events, and grants)
Develop new business opportunities beyond sponsorships (brand partnerships, co-branded initiatives, events, naming rights, experiences, etc.)
Build and manage a strong pipeline of partners and sponsors
Represent GFI in high-level networking environments, business forums, and community events across Houston
Work closely with executive leadership on long-term growth strategy and revenue diversification
Structure and manage sponsorship packages, proposals, and partnership agreements
Track performance, ROI, and long-term value of partnerships
Qualifications
Based in Houston (mandatory)
with a strong local network
Proven experience in business development, partnerships, sponsorships, or fundraising
Existing relationships within corporate, philanthropic, sports, education, or community ecosystems
Strong commercial mindset with the ability to close deals
Comfortable operating at both strategic and execution levels
Entrepreneurial, proactive, and results-driven
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Experience working with or alongside non-profit organizations is a strong plus
Compensation & Career Growth
Highly attractive variable compensation tied directly to new business generated
Significant career growth opportunity with potential evolution into a senior leadership role
Direct impact on the growth and visibility of the organization
Ability to shape long-term partnerships and community legacy in Houston
Why Join GFI
Be part of a high-growth organization with strong market positioning
Real autonomy and influence over strategy
Direct access to executive leadership
Purpose-driven work combining sports, education, and social impact
Opportunity to build something meaningful in the Houston community
About the Position
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Business Development and Sales
Industries: Sports Teams and Clubs
Location: Houston, TX
Salary range: $225,000.00‑$255,000.00
#J-18808-Ljbffr
We are looking for a Houston-based, highly connected business development leader to drive sponsorships, strategic partnerships, and fundraising initiatives across both our for-profit and non-profit platforms.
This role is ideal for someone deeply rooted in the Houston business, corporate, and philanthropic community who can open doors, build long-term relationships, and generate new revenue streams.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and execute sponsorship strategy for GFI across sports, education, events, and community initiatives
Secure corporate sponsors and strategic partners at local, regional, and national levels
Design and lead fundraising campaigns for GFI’s non-profit entities (corporate giving, foundations, high-net-worth individuals, events, and grants)
Develop new business opportunities beyond sponsorships (brand partnerships, co-branded initiatives, events, naming rights, experiences, etc.)
Build and manage a strong pipeline of partners and sponsors
Represent GFI in high-level networking environments, business forums, and community events across Houston
Work closely with executive leadership on long-term growth strategy and revenue diversification
Structure and manage sponsorship packages, proposals, and partnership agreements
Track performance, ROI, and long-term value of partnerships
Qualifications
Based in Houston (mandatory)
with a strong local network
Proven experience in business development, partnerships, sponsorships, or fundraising
Existing relationships within corporate, philanthropic, sports, education, or community ecosystems
Strong commercial mindset with the ability to close deals
Comfortable operating at both strategic and execution levels
Entrepreneurial, proactive, and results-driven
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Experience working with or alongside non-profit organizations is a strong plus
Compensation & Career Growth
Highly attractive variable compensation tied directly to new business generated
Significant career growth opportunity with potential evolution into a senior leadership role
Direct impact on the growth and visibility of the organization
Ability to shape long-term partnerships and community legacy in Houston
Why Join GFI
Be part of a high-growth organization with strong market positioning
Real autonomy and influence over strategy
Direct access to executive leadership
Purpose-driven work combining sports, education, and social impact
Opportunity to build something meaningful in the Houston community
About the Position
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Business Development and Sales
Industries: Sports Teams and Clubs
Location: Houston, TX
Salary range: $225,000.00‑$255,000.00
#J-18808-Ljbffr