About the Team:

Our client is a top tier professional sports organization seeking a strategic seller to join their leadership team as VP of Global Partnership Sales. Their vision is to be one of the most successful and inclusive sports organizations in the world, fostering a culture of excellence, unity, and opportunity. This company is committed to breaking barriers, embracing diversity, and creating a positive impact. This sports group has brought home multiple league championships and is a well respected team who is known to work extremely hard and have a lot of fun - we’re talking about the teammates both on the court and behind the scenes.

Position Overview:

This leadership role of Global Partnership Sales is responsible for bringing innovative ideas and a strategic approach to partnership development. A strong track record in generating new revenue through corporate partnerships is essential. Must have deep experience in the sports partnership sector, with a clear history of winning in competitive environments. Should excel in collaborative settings while competing for business opportunities. Requires a passion for building lasting relationships and closing deals. Will work closely with the Chief Strategy Officer and the entire partnership strategy team, ensuring alignment and execution of partnership goals.

Athletic Traits Valued from Hiring Manager:

Championship mindset: Glassbreaker who possesses the growth mindset
Goal-orientated: Intrinsically motivated to win and a true go-getter
Creative gameplans: Naturally thinks outside the box and willing to do what it takes
Good teammate: High morals, integrity and fun to work with

Key Role Expectations:

Close six- and seven-figure partnership deals: Work with regional, national, and global brands to create and bring to life multiyear contracts.
Lead the entire sales process: Prospecting, outreach, research and discovery, building a case based on client’s needs and matching with appropriate assets, building presentations, delivering pitches, negotiating and closing deals.
Roadmap: Collaborate in developing a comprehensive roadmap for deal strategy and sell-in.
Cultivate relationships: Network and deepen relationships with prospective partners decision makers.
Reporting: Provide regular performance updates

Skills & Experience You Will Bring:

Creative teamplayer: Willing to think outside the box to create deals and use our vast resources available to close deals.
Sports industry experience: Strong sports industry knowledge, specifically as it relates to sponsorships/commercial revenue programs. Experience prospecting and closing major marquee entitlements (e.g. facility naming rights, jersey branding, etc) across digital, media, IP +
Proven seller: 5+ years of partnership sales; experience with an agency, team, league, or rights holder
Reputation and network: Solid network of high-level contacts with both brands and rightsholders. Known to be a great person and a go-getter
Executive Presence: Outstanding communication, analytic, and negotiation skills
Athlete mindset: Goal oriented. Multi-task in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to work solo or within a team atmosphere. Favorable, previous experience competing.

Location & Physical Requirements:

Greater Chicago Area
This role primarily takes place in an office setting
Occasional domestic and international travel required

The Offer:

Salary + Commission
Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision and mental health resources
Unlimited PTO
8 weeks paid time off for parents to welcome newborns, adopted and foster kids
Professional Development through internal learning & development program
Employee Resource Groups
Game & League Discounts
Relocation if relevant

Note:

The search is being conducted confidentially by Urū Sports. Our client is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Apply:

If this opportunity looks exciting to you, please apply. Reading over the role description and feeling like you don’t check every box? That’s okay; if you think you have what it takes but don’t necessarily meet all the criteria, please apply—you could be exactly who we are looking for!

To apply, please submit your resume detailing your qualifications and experience.

Vice President, Global Partnership Sales