Summary

The Buffalo Sabres are looking for a results-oriented sales professional to generate and develop new corporate partnership sales opportunities and revenue across the Sabres multiple downtown Buffalo-based properties, including Buffalo Sabres (NHL), KeyBank Center, LECOM Harborcenter and Buffalo Bandits (NLL). As Corporate Partnership Director, you will play a key role in generating revenue on the Business Development team and report to the Vice President of Business Development.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research and identify partnership prospects locally, regionally and nationally within key open and emerging categories
• Prospect, pitch and close new partnerships in support of individual and department revenue goals across multiple properties
• Lead and direct ongoing sponsorship sales presentations with internal and external partners
• Develop positive relationships with prospects to execute against short and long-term strategic sponsorship sales plans
• Cultivate strong working relationships with existing clients to provide exceptional service and identify potential new sales opportunities
• Collaborate with the Partnership Activation team to ensure execution of partner assets
• Maintain weekly sales reporting including prospect tracking, account/revenue status and relevant partner interaction
• Collaborate with departments to develop and create new inventory to support revenue growth
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications for the Position:

• Bachelor's degree and equivalent work experience
• 5+ years in sales and business development role; ability to demonstrate consistent history of generating partnership revenue
• Experience developing and selling fully integrated sponsorship packages utilizing a variety of assets including (i.e. in-venue, digital strategy, broadcast media, community assets, etc.)
• Experience developing and presenting impactful sales presentations, promotional campaigns and proposals
• Experience in handling associated contract negotiations
• History of developing strong professional relationships
• Experience within the sport industry is preferred

Critical Competencies

• Strong work ethic with ability to deliver individual results within a team-oriented environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective ability to collaborate, influence and build positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and CRM system
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, operate under pressure and efficiently manage multiple projects
• Ability to work nights/weekends/holidays (as required) to attend Sabres and Bandits home games and special events

Compensation 

This role will pay a base salary of $85,000 and plus a draw commission plan to be determined upon hire. Note: Wages will be determined based on factors such as candidate experience, qualifications, skill set and internal equity. 

• Medical Plans: Comprehensive and affordable medical plans; supplemental vision care, dental care, life insurance coverage, fully paid, short and long-term disability and life insurance coverage.
• Investments: 401(k) with employer matching; annual discretionary defined employer contributions
• Paid Time Off:  Paid Volunteer Days
• Sabres Experience: (up to 4) Comp tickets to Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bandits, Rochester Americans when available
• Wellness: Annual Health & Wellness fair, monthly wellness initiatives including but not limited to lunch & learns, fitness classes and challenges.
• Sabres Family: many annual social events for employees and their families to enjoy, including various holiday parties and activities. DEI committee with annual initiatives, ERG (Employee Resource Groups), Community Volunteer opportunities and more. 

Hockey Western New York, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.