SPONSORSHIP SALES MANAGER

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Prospecting & New Business Development: Identify and pursue new corporate sponsorship opportunities through cold calls, emails, networking, and in-person meetings. Maintain a pipeline of leads and schedule 10+ new business meetings weekly to pitch sponsorships, exceeding sales goals.
• Consultative Sales & Proposals: Tailor sponsorship proposals to meet prospect business goals and marketing objectives. Create presentations that align with client needs, showcasing ROI and “wow” experiences.
• Closing Deals & Contract Negotiation: Lead the sales process from outreach to signed agreements. Negotiate terms, prepare contracts, and work with leadership to ensure deals align with team objectives.
• Account Service & Activation: Manage partnerships post-sale, collaborating with internal teams to activate and deliver sponsorship assets. Ensure timely fulfillment and exceed expectations to delight sponsors.
• Relationship Management: Build long-term relationships with sponsors, offering exceptional service and identifying upsell opportunities for account growth.
• Renewals & Retention: Regularly review campaign results with partners, aiming for annual renewals and expansions. Maintain accurate CRM records for tracking and renewal proposals.
• Networking & Community Engagement: Represent the Larks at networking events, sponsor outings, and community functions to strengthen relationships and generate new leads.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with the front office to integrate sponsor initiatives into game-day experiences and contribute to brainstorming and activations.
• Game Day Duties: Attend home games and events, hosting sponsors and ensuring top-notch experiences. Work nights and weekends as needed.
• Reporting & Metrics: Track sales activities and report progress toward goals. Update CRM with all client interactions and use data to refine strategies.
• Other Duties: Assist with special events, community initiatives, and other tasks as needed to support the team's success. Be flexible and willing to go above and beyond your core role.

Requirements

• Experience: 2-3+ years in sales (preferably sports sponsorship, media/advertising, or B2B). Proven success in meeting or exceeding sales targets and experience with marketing proposals or partnership agreements is a plus.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in business, sports management, marketing, or a related field preferred. Sales training or professional development certifications are a bonus.
• Sales Skills: Strong prospecting and closing abilities. Confident in cold calling and pitching to top executives. Consultative sales approach with creative problem-solving to match client needs with Larks' offerings.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills. Comfortable delivering presentations and drafting persuasive proposals. Strong interpersonal skills and a professional demeanor that represents the Larks brand.
• Organizational Skills: Detail-oriented and highly organized. Able to manage multiple prospects and projects. Proficient with CRM systems and MS Office/Google Workspace for reporting and proposals.
• Customer Focus: Passionate about customer service and relationship-building. Focused on delivering value and positive experiences for sponsors while solving problems efficiently.
• Personal Traits: High energy, self-motivated, and goal-driven. Thrive in fast-paced environments and are resilient in chasing new business. Team player who aligns with the Larks' fun, positive culture.
• Schedule & Travel: Available for non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must attend home games and events. Local travel required; valid driver's license and reliable transportation needed.
• Passion for Our Mission: Enthusiastic about sports and community. Excited to contribute to the Larks' mission of creating joyful experiences for families and fans.

Nice to Have

• Experience with marketing proposals or partnership agreements
• Sales training or professional development certifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, sports management, marketing, or a related field (preferred)