• About MEC
At MEC, we believe the transformative power of the outdoors makes us better humans and drives us to do good for the planet. We are here to inspire and support everyone in getting active outside, matching people with gear and advice that instills confidence. We offer more than products; we offer passion for the outdoors. We play with purpose!
Our business model is dependent on impassioned and well-trained outdoor enthusiasts and as such we look for individuals who live our purpose and fit with MEC ethos and lifestyle. If you are that person, we'd love to connect with you. Join us!
MEC is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building an inclusive community of staffers. We're proud to work with our people to create a diverse workplace, where everyone feels like they belong and has the opportunity to be successful. We welcome of all applicants to join our diverse team. Tell us what you need during the hiring process, and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
The role
Partnerships are a key growth lever for MEC driving efficiency, credibility, and reach. This role will shape how MEC collaborates with brands, organizations, and communities to create meaningful value for members while unlocking sustainable growth.
The Director of Brand Partnerships is responsible for building and scaling strategic partnerships that drive incremental revenue, improve marketing efficiency, and strengthen brand credibility. This role leads both endemic (industry) and non-endemic partnerships, as well as corporate and professional programs, working closely with Merchandising, Marketing, Loyalty, and Commercial teams.
This leader ensures partnerships deliver measurable business impact while consistently reinforcing MEC's brand promise and relevance with its target audience.
Location: This 2 day a week in-office role, base out of MEC's Support Office in Vancouver.
As the Director, Brand Partnerships you'll be
• Lead and grow MEC's endemic brand partnerships, working closely with Merchandising to expand coop programs, activate priority categories, and bring products to life through education, storytelling, and experience.
• Build a non-endemic partnerships program and identify collaborators that unlock new audiences and incremental revenue, including loyalty perks, seasonal sponsorships, in-store and digital activations, and affiliate or referral programs.
• Develop and scale corporate and group sales partnerships, establishing clear acquisition strategies, pipeline management, and disciplined commercial models.
• Define and evolve MEC's Pro and community partner programs, building partnerships with outdoor professionals and community leaders who rely on gear for their work and influence others' gear choices. Ensure clear eligibility criteria, profitability/business case, and measurable return on investment.
• Partner cross-functionally to ensure all partnerships are integrated and aligned with brand and financial objectives.
• Lead a high-performing partnerships team and set a clear vision for growth.
What you bring:
• 10+ years of experience in brand partnerships, strategic partnerships, business development, or related growth roles
• Proven experience delivering revenue impact through partnerships while protecting brand integrity
• Strong cross-functional leadership skills, with experience working closely with Merchandising, Marketing, Finance, and Legal
• Commercial acumen, including comfort with margin management and performance measurement
• Experience in retail, consumer brands, or purpose-led organizations preferred
Leadership Principles:
Our MEC Leadership Way principles are the backbone of our commitment to fostering a vibrant, outdoor-focused culture. Grounded in integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, these guiding capabilities empower leaders at every level to inspire teamwork and drive meaningful change. By cultivating a culture of trust and accountability, we create an environment where everyone can thrive, adapt to challenges, and contribute to our shared mission of connecting people with the great outdoors. Embrace these principles to help shape a dynamic and supportive workplace that values growth, empathy, and a shared passion for exploration.
• We know where we're going. Clearly define our mission, connect work to strategy, and set measurable goals collaboratively.
• We guide with empathy. Foster understanding and respect, celebrate diversity, and create an inclusive environment.
• We grow our people. Invest in individual growth, remain accessible to teams, and pursue continuous improvement.
• We trailblaze. Embrace innovation as a process, encourage experimentation, and learn from mistakes.
• We pick the right path. Make decisions based on our values, consider diverse perspectives, and communicate reasoning transparently.
• We change course when needed. Embrace change as an opportunity, adapt strategies swiftly, and lead teams with clear communication and positivity.
The Compensation & Perks!
This is a permanent role with the anticipated salary range of $128,000 to $160,000 base + bonus. The exact salary will be dependent on the successful candidate's relevant skills, experience, qualifications and internal equity.
• Generous annual vacation allotment & paid care time (Wellness/sick)
• Maternity and parental leave top-up
• Staff discount and amazing deals straight from vendors
• Top-notch benefit plan & retirement plan with matched contributions
• Paid days to pursue outdoor activities and/or volunteer in your community
• Access to a learning platform and educational assistance support
