Digital Marketing/Content-Creator Research Strategist (Athletics/DTC Brand)

We are developing a new direct-to-consumer brand for a specific age-defined audience within athletics. We are seeking an insightful marketing researcher and strategist to identify the most effective and cost-efficient ways to reach this audience. Our primary interest is in adult content creators focused on youth athletics—not traditional lifestyle influencers, whom our existing research indicates may be less trusted by this demographic. The project will include: -Identifying and ranking relevant content creators across YouTube, Instagram and TikTok -Evaluating audience fit, reach, engagement, existing sponsorships and partnership potential -Recommending a shortlist of creators for meaningful, potentially long-term partnerships -Researching other opportunities, including sports organizations, events, teams, tournaments, sponsorships and NIL partnerships -Recommending paid-social and digital-marketing strategies -Developing creative, non-obvious ideas—and potentially a combination of approaches—to maximize the effectiveness of our marketing budget The ideal candidate will have strong marketing-research skills, creative instincts and experience with content creators, influencer marketing, digital advertising, social media and consumer brands. A genuine passion for—or professional experience in—athletics and sports would be especially valuable. We do not simply want a list of creators or readily available information. We want someone with a particular talent for uncovering new opportunities, making insightful connections and developing creative strategies we would be unlikely to identify on our own. This is initially a defined research project so we can begin developing important relationships well before launch. However, if you are the right person and demonstrate that you can bring meaningful insight, creativity and strategic value to the business, there could be substantial opportunities for additional marketing work and an ongoing advisory relationship as we approach launch and grow the brand. As an early-stage startup funded entirely by its founder, we must be exceptionally thoughtful about every marketing dollar and highly protective of the products and strategy under development. ***Confidentiality is therefore of the utmost importance***. The selected researcher will be required to sign an NDA before receiving additional information and must be prepared to keep all nonpublic details strictly confidential, including from friends, family members and professional acquaintances. We are seeking a flat-fee proposal for this initial phase and expect the budget to be roughly $250–$500, with the potential for additional projects to follow. In your response, please include your relevant experience and knowledge, proposed approach, timeline and flat-fee payment structure