Director, Business Development - University of Alabama

About the role

Learfield is seeking a strategic, results-driven sales leader to head its sponsorship team for the University of Alabama. You will oversee the sales strategy and performance of the property, manage a team of sellers and drive revenue growth through new business and renewals. You will also develop integrated sponsorship solutions, align with university stakeholders and help shape the property's presence locally and nationally.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a team of sellers responsible for individual and team revenue goals
• Build strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, clients and internal stakeholders
• Drive new business and strategic renewals through integrated sponsorship opportunities across digital, social, in-venue, broadcast and experiential platforms
• Set annual revenue targets, track progress and manage performance across the team
• Develop and deliver proposals and presentations to local, regional and national brands
• Partner with property leadership on inventory strategy and pricing
• Recruit, coach and develop sales talent
• Identify emerging trends in sports marketing and represent the property in high-visibility meetings, hospitality events and game-day activations, including evenings and weekends

Required profile

• 10+ years of sales experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership capacity
• Proven track record of driving revenue growth, setting and achieving sales targets and managing high-performing sales teams
• Ability to craft integrated marketing strategies aligned with client and university objectives
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, with experience influencing executive-level decision makers
• Excellent communication, organization and presentation skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support athletic events and client activations
• Preferred: bachelor's degree, experience selling comprehensive sports marketing partnerships, familiarity with collegiate athletics, knowledge of digital marketing trends and performance analytics

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Proficiency in CRM platforms

What we offer

• Medical, dental, vision and life insurance, plus health savings account and other insurance plans
• Paid time off of at least 10 days per year, including parental leave and 20 paid holidays
• 401(k) match and short/long term disability coverage