Tigers Sports Properties is seeking a results-driven NIL Business Development Manager to lead the execution and growth of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) sponsorship opportunities for Memphis Athletics. In this role, you will lead the charge in identifying, pitching, and closing NIL sponsorships that connect student-athletes with brand partners.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for generating new NIL revenue, developing innovative campaign proposals, and ensuring high-quality delivery of sponsorship activations. You will serve as a primary point of contact for both brand partners and student-athletes, while coordinating across internal teams to meet partner expectations and compliance standards.

This position works closely with the broader property team, brand partners, athletics staff, student-athletes, and key Learfield stakeholders to drive results and ensure campaign success.

Responsibilities

• Drive new NIL business by proactively identifying, prospecting, and pitching student-athlete sponsorship opportunities to local and regional brands
• Develop creative NIL campaign proposals that align with brand goals and student-athlete strengths
• Own the complete sales cycle: lead generation, pitch development, negotiations, and closing
• Ensure flawless execution of NIL campaigns by coordinating with internal stakeholders (Partnerships, Athletics, Legal/Compliance, Activation)
• Manage and grow a personal book of NIL business — including new accounts and upsells opportunities
• Track and report NIL sales activity, pipeline updates, closed revenue, and forecasts
• Maintain strong, trusted relationships with brand decision-makers and key stakeholders
• Stay informed on NIL trends, evolving legislation, and competitive market activity to inform strategy and outreach
• Meet or exceed defined NIL sales targets and key performance indicators

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 4 years of experience in business development, sponsorship sales, or college athletics
• Proven ability to build a pipeline and close deals with partners and decision-makers
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently and collaborate cross-functionally
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel); CRM experience preferred

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Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university
• Experience in NIL, sports sponsorships, or athlete/influencer partnerships
• Familiarity with NIL regulations and compliance best practices
• High level of initiative, ownership mindset, and commitment to process improvement
• Passion for student-athlete success and brand storytelling in a dynamic environment

Learfield offers a full spectrum of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Heath Savings Account, Life Insurance and Other Insurance Plans, Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave, 20 Paid Holidays, 401(k), and Short/Long Term Disability. Leave benefits are consistent with state and local laws, including the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

Learfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.