Partnerships Lead

Partnerships Lead

Join the team behind Australia’s most iconic racing and entertainment experience

The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is seeking a high performing Partnerships Lead to deliver best-in-class commercial partnerships across the Melbourne Cup Carnival and our broader racing and events calendar.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of sport, entertainment and premium experiences, shaping how leading brands show up on one of Australia’s biggest stages. At the VRC, partnerships go beyond visibility, they are long-term, strategic relationships built on value creation, innovation and shared commercial success.

About the Role

Reporting to the Head of Partnerships, you will take ownership of a portfolio of key commercial partners, ensuring seamless delivery, driving partner value, and contributing to long-term renewal outcomes. You will play a critical role across the full partnership lifecycle, from planning and coordination through to race day execution while working closely with internal teams and external partners to deliver high-impact activations. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role suited to someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and takes pride in delivering outstanding partner experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Partner Management & Growth

• Act as the primary point of contact for assigned partners, building trusted, long-term relationships
• Develop a strong understanding of partner objectives and identify opportunities to enhance value and grow accounts
• Deliver consistently high service standards to support satisfaction, retention and renewal

Partnership Delivery & Activation

• Lead end-to-end delivery of partnership entitlements across branding, content, promotions, hospitality and on-course activation
• Ensure all contractual obligations are executed accurately, on time and to a premium standard
• Coordinate race day hosting, sponsor engagement and presentations

Cross-Functional Delivery

• Collaborate with Marketing, Events, Racing, Operations and Commercial teams to deliver integrated outcomes
• Manage suppliers and agencies to ensure high-quality execution of partner activity

Commercial & Operational Support

• Support contract renewals and renegotiations in partnership with Legal and senior stakeholders
• Assist with budgets, invoicing and financial tracking to ensure commercial accuracy
• Coordinate post-event reporting and partner debriefs to demonstrate value delivered

Success Profile (What Good Looks Like)

• Flawless execution of partnership entitlements across the season
• Strong, trusted partner relationships with clear commercial value delivered
• High-quality activations that enhance the VRC brand and partner experience
• Effective internal collaboration and stakeholder alignment
• Contribution to successful renewals and revenue retention

About You

You are a relationship-first operator who combines strong commercial instincts with exceptional attention to detail. You’re confident managing multiple stakeholders, comfortable working at pace, and motivated by delivering outcomes that drive real business impact.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in partnerships, sponsorship, account management or similar roles
• Strong understanding of integrated partnership delivery (branding, content, hospitality and experiential)
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
• High attention to detail and accountability for delivery
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a drive to continuously improve partner outcomes

Our Values

At VRC, everything we do is guided by our shared values:

• Think VRC — We deliver with one purpose and plan. One team.
• Create Joy — We design experiences that bring joy to our members, customers and each other.
• Be Gutsy — We respect our heritage while being brave and curious about the future.
• F‑Learn — We learn from setbacks and treat them as opportunities for growth.
• Care Deeply — We genuinely care about our people, partners, members and community.

Why Join VRC

• Be part of one of Australia’s most iconic sporting and cultural organisations
• Work on high‑profile partnerships across major racing and event experiences
• Collaborate with passionate, talented and supportive teams
• Make a tangible impact on partner success and commercial outcomes

How to Apply

When submitting your application, please include your résumé and any other supporting documents.

You must have the legal right to work in Australia.

Appointment to the role is subject to meeting the Victoria Racing Club’s employment requirements, which may include (but are not limited to) reference checks, and a National Criminal History Check.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.