Partnership Manager

  • Think Active
  • Feb 03, 2026
Full time Education

Job Description

Relationship Management

  • To act as the lead and relationship manager with partners on behalf of Think Active Lead, or support the development of local partnerships and networks promoting collaboration across all relevant sectors

  • Raise awareness of funding opportunities available to increase participation in sport and physical activity.

  • Lead, or support, on the development of local place partnerships that align multiple agendas with partners from across different sectors and advocate for the benefits of physical activity.

Project Management

  • To act as the lead for Sport England and other projects and initiatives managed by Think Active.

  • High-quality project management that ensures the project's aims are clear, that they are delivered on time and on budget and in line with our values.

  • Effective delivery of the Think Active, strategy, through your contribution as a team member of Think Active and with and through partners.

  • Tangibly contribute to the increase in participation in sport and physical activity and address wider social needs through creative and innovative approaches and partnerships.

  • Seek out opportunities to generate income and contribute to Think Active business development and income generation targets both for the organisation and for local partners.

  • Use robust data and insight to co-design, implement and evaluate innovative. and appropriate projects and initiatives.

  • Prepare detailed performance and financial reports for your work.

  • Adhere to GDPR and data protection through your planning, implementation and communication.

Financial Management

  • Plan, implement and in accordance with funding guidance, financial procedures, and policies, take responsibility for diversifying Think Active s income streams in line with the strategy and business development plan

  • Project and budget management, including forecasting, monitoring of income and expenditure, plus the submission of financial reporting

Demonstrating Impact

  • Reporting progress and capturing value through case studies and evaluation processes designed to evidence the impact

  • Storytelling the ability to articulate the impact and value of Think Active (locally, regionally, nationally and across various sectors)

Marketing and Communications

  • By strategically cultivating and managing partnerships, you will play an important role in building brand visibility and enhancing Think Active s marketing and communications efforts.

  • You will collaborate with internal colleagues and external stakeholders to create compelling narratives that showcase the impact of our projects and initiatives, driving awareness and engagement.

  • By leveraging partnerships, the Partnership Manager will contribute to positioning Think Active in promoting health and well-being through innovative and impactful physical activity projects, initiatives and collaborations.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Core Values

  • Ability to promote and manage diversity and demonstrate a fair and ethical approach in all situations

  • A team player who can communicate and work effectively within a team environment

  • Demonstrate kindness, consideration, appreciation, and acceptance (and you should expect the same in return).

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Qualifications

  • Relevant degree or equivalent or experience qualification in business, health, sport, physical activity or a related field

Knowledge / Experience

  • Proven experience in partnership development or comparable role (including project management) within a sport, physical activity, health, charity, nonprofit or similar setting. We are particularly interested in those with experience in the Health Sector

  • Track record of delivering successful individual, team, and partnership outcomes

  • Experience in developing, managing and nurturing relationships with partners and stakeholders

  • Knowledge of issues facing the least active in society and the benefits of physical activity

  • Knowledge of the local community and stakeholders in Coventry, Solihull, and Warwickshire

  • Previous experience with fundraising and grant applications

  • Experience in event planning and delivery

  • Knowledge of local and national strategies and policies relating to sport, physical activity, and health promotion

  • Knowledge of current trends and innovations in sport and physical activity participation and promotion

  • Knowledge of safeguarding and protecting children and vulnerable people in sport.

  • Knowledge of current legislation related to health, community, and sport agendas.

  • Experience in drafting, implementing, and reporting on strategic development plans and policies in partnership with partners, stakeholders, and people.

  • Experience in planning and managing significant budgets related to priorities and meeting the requirements of funding agencies or partner organisations.

Skills & Abilities

  • Ability to successfully lead or manage and motivate individuals and a project team

  • Ability to develop and implement effective partnership strategies

  • Well-developed written and verbal communication skills and the ability to motivate, enthuse, persuade, negotiate, and influence.

  • Strategic, critical thinking and decision-making skills

  • The ability to be well organised, work on your own initiative and across a broad portfolio, successfully managing a range of projects, partners, and budgets often with conflicting deadlines and priorities.

  • Strong project management skills

  • Computer literate across a range of platforms (we use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Project)

  • Presentation skills with the ability to facilitate group sessions and workshops

BEHAVIOURAL TRAITS

  • Strong work ethic and have the willingness to go above and beyond.

  • Professional, supportive and always respect confidentiality.

  • Able to reflect on your own performance and want to improve, can take and welcome feedback, and embrace improvement areas through self-development, training, and professional development

TECHNICAL & PRACTICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Willingness to work occasional evenings/weekends.

  • Ability to travel across Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire, and wider across the West Midlands and nationally as required,

  • Think Active s main headquarters are in Leamington Spa, with work also taking place across Coventry, Solihull, and Warwickshire. We operate a blended working model that includes home working, office attendance, and travel to meetings as required. The post holder will be expected to work flexibly to meet the organisation's needs.