Principal Esports Business Development Manager

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end sponsorship sales process, from prospecting to deal closure, managing a pipeline of high-value partners and ensuring long-term retention.
• Contribute to and execute Riot's global esports sponsorship strategy, aligning commercial efforts with the long-term vision for Riot's esports ecosystem.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (content, broadcast, product, marketing, finance, legal) to identify and structure new business opportunities, ensuring seamless partner integration into Riot's global esports products.
• Create and oversee premium sponsorship offerings across Riot's major global esports events, ensuring each partner activation enhances the fan experience and delivers meaningful value.
• Own key relationships at senior levels with existing and prospective partners, negotiating complex, high-value deals and ensuring strategic alignment.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies in esports, sports, entertainment, and media to drive innovation and new revenue opportunities.
• Act as a thought leader within the esports business development space, helping to shape Riot's approach to partnerships and monetization.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and best-in-class execution.

Requirements

• 8-10+ years of experience in business development, partnerships, or sponsorship sales, with a proven track record of structuring and closing high-value deals in gaming, sports, entertainment, or media.
• Strong understanding of global esports, sports, and entertainment landscapes, with the ability to translate trends into actionable business opportunities.
• Expert negotiation and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders both internally and externally.
• Experience leading strategic initiatives, with a deep understanding of sponsorship valuation, content monetization, and brand partnerships.

Nice to Have

• Deep experience in gaming, esports, content distribution, or live entertainment partnerships.
• Strong storytelling, presentation, and sales collateral development capabilities.
• Track record of high renewal rates and long-term partner retention.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, global environment while balancing multiple priorities.

Qualifications

• Experience in business development, partnerships, or sponsorship sales, with a proven track record in gaming, sports, entertainment, or media.

Benefits & Perks

• Open paid time off policy and flexible work schedules.
• Medical, dental, and life insurance.
• Parental leave for you, your spouse/domestic partner, and children.
• 401k with company match.