Name: Maya Branch Role: Manager, Corporate Partnerships Experience: 4 years Concentration: Corporate Partnerships (Atlanta Dream)
Maya Branch is so inspirational! I first learned about her from my dad, who was absolutely amazed by her presence at his local high school softball teams’ annual banquet. I immediately wanted to learn more about her journey, and share it with the Breakroom Buddha community, after hearing his feedback. Learn more about Maya’s journey below!
Tell me a bit about yourself.
My name is Maya Branch and I’m from Lithonia, GA. I graduated from the University of Georgia where I played on the Varsity softball team. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Entomology (the study of insects) and a Master’s in Sports Management and Policy. I know, the two do not correlate haha. I graduated in 2015 and started working my first real internship with the Atlanta Falcons. From there, I went on to work for an experiential marketing agency and then to FOX Sports College Properties in Auburn, Alabama. I relocated back to Atlanta last May to work with the Atlanta Dream.
How did you end up working in the world of professional sports?
I grew up playing multiple sports and played softball in college. During my senior year, I decided I wanted to stay in sports, so I went to grad school.
What does your day-to-day normally look like as a Corporate Partnerships Manager for the Atlanta Dream?
In the offseason, every day is reflecting on the past season and prepping for the upcoming one. Day to Day tasks consist of meeting with sponsors, preparing recaps, preparing proposals, researching new businesses, collecting creatives from different brand partners and being the liaison for the team and sponsors.
In-season, every day is different. I could have a photoshoot on Monday afternoon, so I’m prepping for that. Tuesday, I might have player appearances at hospitals. Wednesday, I might be in the office preparing for game day and making sure all sponsored assets are executed (LED signage, table activations, tickets, etc.).
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I grew up playing multiple sports and played softball in college. During my senior year, I decided I wanted to stay in sports, so I went to grad school.
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What makes your field special, fun, or exciting?
I’m around sports all day. You work hard leading up to the game and on game day you see your work executed. I go back and asses to see how we can make it better.
How do you keep up with changes in your field?
Subscribe to sports business magazines and follow on social. Attend conferences. Join professional organizations.
Do you have any big mistakes or life lessons you’ve learned thus far?
On a personal note: Travel the world while you’re young and have no ties. Move from home while you’re fresh out of college. Don’t limit yourself when nothing is tying you to it. Create a daily routine and take vitamins. I feel old ☹.
On a professional note: Join professional organizations and networks! 95% of my job interviews came from me knowing someone at the company.
What does success look like to you?
Satisfaction, happiness, accomplished and healthy!
How do you decompress / or stay motivated outside of work?
Yoga and my personal goals.
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been to? What makes it special?
Costa Rica to study abroad! It’s beautiful and peaceful. I love nature and all its beauty!
Did you know that Maya also coaches a youth softball team!?
How does she do it all? Haha. Keep up with Maya’s adventures via her Instagram, LinkedIn and the Georgia Elite Gold Softball page! 😊
Partnerships Manager: Deeper Dive
Excited about becoming a Partnerships Manager?
Here’s a deeper look into the role (via Payscale)
- Job Description: Partnership managers are responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships among business partners while also developing strategies to increase revenue for their companies.
- Related Roles: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Marketing Manager
- Popular Companies: Google, CBS Interactive, Facebook
- Popular Skills: Contract Negotiation, Strategy Development, Account Management
- Average Salary: $81k/year
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