The Position:
The Business Development Manager will play an essential role in the daily operations and overall growth of the Corporate Partnerships department. Reporting to the Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships, this position is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities while maintaining and growing existing relationships. The ideal candidate is a proactive relationship builder with a strategic sales mindset, creativity in crafting custom partnership solutions, and a passion for connecting brands with the Nashville Sounds experience.
Job Summary/Responsibilities
- Generate new business partnerships by prospecting, researching, and networking with local, regional, and national companies.
- Create and develop comprehensive, customized partnership proposals designed to achieve client objectives
- Establish and nurture relationships through consistent outreach, face-to-face meetings, and attendance at community and networking events.
- Meet and exceed annual new business and renewal goals.
- Manage a portfolio of existing partners with a focus on retention, upselling, and long-term growth.
- Collaborate closely with the Partnership Activation team and other internal departments throughout the sales and fulfillment process to ensure seamless communication and execution.
Desired Characteristics
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
- Strong planning and organizational skills; can prioritize work activities; uses time efficiently.
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced, team environment.
- Proficiency with sales presentation tools such as Sportsdigita/DigiDeck.
- Experience using HubSpot to manage pipelines and client communication.
- Comfortable navigating the ballpark to visit clients and host potential partners during games and events.
- Availability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays as required including other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required or related work experience.
- Minimum of two (2) years of proven success in sponsorship or partnership sales within sports, entertainment, or related industries.
- Strong negotiation, communication and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge of the Nashville market and surrounding business community preferred.
We are 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.
