The International Arena League is seeking a GM of Sponsorship Sales & Activation to lead corporate partnership efforts in Saskatoon, Canada This role will be responsible for driving new business development, managing and renewing existing sponsorship accounts, and overseeing all aspects of activation and fulfillment to ensure partners receive maximum value. (Most of the sports operations management will be handled by coaches, league office & game day staff)
Start date: Jan 1 or sooner
The ideal candidate is a results-driven professional with a strong background in sponsorship sales, relationship management, and creative activation strategies. This role requires excellent communication skills, a proven ability to generate revenue, and a passion for building lasting partnerships that elevate both the league and its sponsors.
This position offers a salary of $100-120,000 + bonuses/commissions for reaching certain benchmarks. Reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of the International Arena League.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
- Lead all aspects of the sponsorship sales process, including prospecting, building and presenting proposals, negotiating contracts, renewing and up-selling partners, delivering year-end recaps, and servicing corporate partner agreements.
- Develop and implement strategies that drive sponsorship and revenue growth for the league.
- Actively sell and execute innovative partnership packages while collaborating with internal staff to ensure alignment and success. Consistently track outreach/sales efforts in CRM system and maintain active reporting and communication on both successes and challenges.
- Prospect, network, and build strong relationships throughout the Saskatoon & area business community to create new partnership opportunities.
- Manage activation and fulfillment of sponsorship agreements, ensuring partners receive maximum value and best-in-class service.
- Support cross-departmental initiatives to enhance ticket sales, fan engagement, and overall revenue generation.
- Be present at league facilities and community events, including evenings and weekends as required for games and activations.
Required Qualifications:
- 3+ years of sponsorship sales, business development, or related revenue generation experience in sports, entertainment, or a comparable field.
- Strong knowledge of sports sponsorship assets, including both traditional and non-traditional inventory.
- Proven ability to develop relationships quickly and thrive in external-facing business development activities.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative team environment.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- A strong work ethic, integrity, and a passion for sports, live entertainment, and creating impactful partnerships.
