California Partnerships Manager for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Merrimac International is recruiting this position on behalf of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. All communication regarding this role will be handled exclusively through Merrimac International. Position Overview The California Partnerships Manager will lead strategic communications and partnership development efforts across the state to advance the mission of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: providing free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five. This role will prioritize cultivating and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders including local affiliates, community organizations, government agencies, and philanthropic partners. The manager will drive awareness, support affiliate success, and expand program reach through effective messaging, collaborative outreach, and strategic engagement. Primary Essential Duties & Responsibilities ● Perpetuate The Dollywood Foundation’s Vision & Mission ● Be a ‘personal representative’ for Dolly Parton and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Key Responsibilities • Incorporates the foundation’s Core Values into all aspects of their work • Proactively seek out and build relationships with potential partners, sponsors, and collaborators that align with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. • Act as a connector and opportunity-seeker, consistently identifying new avenues for engagement and funding—especially through associations, nonprofits, and mission-aligned networks. • Work closely with the Communications team to ensure new partnership opportunities are effectively transitioned and supported by Communications Coordinators for activation and visibility. • Maintain a “hunter” mindset; researching, initiating, and nurturing high-value relationships with funders, community leaders, and potential allies • Ensure all partnership and development efforts are aligned with organizational programming and long-term impact goals • While political experience is not required, familiarity with advocacy, public affairs, or working alongside elected officials is a plus • Bring strategic thinking to overcome challenges, unlock new opportunities, and build sustainable funding pipelines • Track partnership development efforts, maintain CRM records, and report on progress toward fundraising and engagement goals • Embody the organization’s values and work in close alignment with the State Director and leadership team to maintain cultural integrity and shared vision Position Requirements The ideal candidate is a passionate, outstanding leader who thrives on the opportunity to deliver Dolly’s mission to inspire a love of reading! Core • Fully understand and respect their responsibility to represent Dolly Parton and The Dollywood Foundation. All actions and behaviors are an extension of Dolly and The Foundation and as such, great care must be taken to preserve the image and integrity of both • A passionate desire to help children and make a difference in their lives • Excellent ‘first impression’ regarding appearance, hygiene, and dress to present a professional image • Exhibits exemplary leadership qualities that inspire and unify both the team and the community at large • Willingness to work a varying schedule that includes nights, holidays, and weekends • Recognized as a positive influence on others • Works with integrity, ethics, and honesty • Contributes to building a positive team spirit, shares their expertise and recognizes the accomplishments of others • Willingness to learn best practices and modify for future improvement Skills/Knowledge • Strong ability to identify, initiate, and cultivate strategic partnerships that support organizational growth and mission • Skilled at building trust and maintaining long-term relationships with stakeholders, funders, and community partners • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and stakeholders simultaneously • Knowledge of fundraising strategies, donor cultivation, and stewardship best practices in nonprofit or association environments • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling pitches, proposals, and presentations as needed • Solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to think strategically and adaptively in dynamic environments • Works well across departments and with leadership to align development efforts with broader organizational goals • Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to the organization’s values and leadership vision • Comfortable using CRM systems, fundraising platforms, and productivity tools to track progress and streamline outreach • Be responsive to DWF Leadership, and to client needs • Excellent organizational skills are needed; as is tact and good judgment when dealing with others, both locally and statewide • Ability to focus on the daily details while managing the overall scope of the job responsibilities • Disciplined in meeting goals • Ability to manage and resolve difficult or emotional situations • Excellent communicator via telephone, video conferencing and in person • Exceptional verbal and written English language skills; patience in responsiveness to repetitive questions. Articulate, speaks, and writes clearly and informatively, proofs work for spelling and grammar. Listens for knowledge and clarification • Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills • Works a varying schedule that may include nights, holidays, weekends, and occasional travel Education / Experience • Bachelor’s degree required in a relevant field such as Nonprofit Management, Communications, Public Affairs, Business, or a related discipline • 2-4 years of experience in development, fundraising, client engagement, or partnership-building roles, preferably within nonprofit, association, or mission-driven organizations • Demonstrated success in identifying and securing new partnerships, sponsorships, or funding opportunities • Experience working cross-functionally with communications, programming, and leadership teams to align development efforts with organizational goals • Proven ability to manage a portfolio of prospects and partnerships, from initial outreach through stewardship and reporting • Familiarity with CRM systems and donor databases (e.g., Salesforce or similar) for tracking and managing relationships • Experience in environments that value creativity, agility, and a solutions-oriented approach to growth and engagement • While not required, experience working with or around political figures, advocacy campaigns, or public sector partnerships is a plus • Familiarity with California’s educational and nonprofit landscape Compensation and Employment Details • This is a full-time remote position based in California with a salary range of $85,000 to $94,500 annually, based on experience and qualifications. The role includes a comprehensive benefits package, which typically covers health, dental, vision, and retirement plans, along with paid time off. Location Requirement Although this position is remote, the candidate must reside in California to meet compliance and business needs. Apply tot his job