PORTLAND THORNS
Founded in 2012, Portland Thorns FC have set the standard for fan support and on-field success in women’s soccer since its inaugural 2013 season. One of the world’s most supported women’s soccer clubs, Portland has led the league in attendance for eight seasons and set a new club playoff attendance record last year with 25,218 fans supporting Thorns FC in the 2023 semifinal match at Providence Park. Thorns FC have won the NWSL Championship a league-record three times (2013, 2017, 2022) and finished as runners-up in 2018. The club has made the postseason a league-high nine times and has won the NWSL Shield in 2016 and 2021.
WHO ARE THE PORTLAND THORNS?
We are the Portland Thorns.
We will be the #1 women’s football franchise in the world.
We fight to protect the integrity of our team and to inspire our city.
We are stewards of innovation…on and off the pitch.
We have a storied history of winning with a championship pedigree.
We believe in inclusiveness and demonstrating an authentic commitment to the community.
We are diverse, multi-cultural and we take action with purpose and intent.
We will relentlessly be a thorn in our opponent’s side and forever be the crown jewels of Portland.
We are the Portland Thorns.
THE ROLE:
The Director of Ticket Sales is responsible for aggressively driving new ticket revenue for Portland Thorns FC through outbound sales leadership, new business development, and high-volume prospecting. This role owns the execution of all ticket sales activity with a primary focus on acquiring new season ticket members, group buyers, and single-game purchasers, while building a culture of accountability, urgency, and results. The ideal candidate is a relentless sales leader with a proven track record of building pipelines, closing new business, and leading teams in a metrics-driven environment.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Own and drive all outbound ticket sales efforts with a primary focus on new revenue generation across season tickets, group sales, and single-game inventory
- Lead new business acquisition strategy, including prospecting, lead sourcing, cold calling, email campaigns, referrals, and in-person sales efforts
- Personally contribute to outbound sales activity by engaging high-value prospects, key group buyers, and premium opportunities
- Recruit, train, and manage a high-output ticket sales team focused on daily outbound activity and closing new business
- Establish and enforce strict sales activity standards, including outbound calls, emails, appointments, presentations, and face-to-face meetings
- Build, manage, and optimize sales pipelines using CRM tools, ensuring consistent prospect movement and deal progression
- Drive aggressive season ticket acquisition campaigns and group sales initiatives to maximize new accounts and revenue growth
- Partner with marketing to convert leads into revenue through targeted outbound follow-up, rapid response times, and high-touch sales processes
- Analyze outbound performance data, conversion rates, and prospect behavior to refine sales messaging and improve close rates
- Implement upsell and cross-sell strategies focused on increasing average order value for new and existing buyers
- Hold team members accountable to individual and team revenue targets, activity metrics, and closing performance
- Support revenue forecasting by providing accurate pipeline data, projections, and risk assessments to senior leadership
- Maintain a strong sales presence on game days by engaging prospects, hosting site visits, closing walk-up opportunities, and advancing sales conversations
- Collaborate with corporate partnerships and community organizations to unlock new group and premium sales opportunities
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A THORN:
- 5+ years of sales experience and 3+ years of ticket sales management experience, preferably in professional sports.
- Demonstrated success in driving ticketing revenue growth via strategic initiatives
- Proven track record of successfully leading and managing high-performing sales teams
- Experienced in hiring, training, motivating and developing sales staff
- Skilled in data analysis, pricing strategies, and sales forecasting
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities
- Demonstrated success in implementing sales processes, systems and accountability measures
- In-depth knowledge of the greater-Portland market and demographics to effectively tailor sales
- approach
- Ability to analyze market data and develop targeted sales strategies
- Ability to analyze individual/team sales metrics and provide constructive feedback
- Passion for soccer and providing exceptional fan experiences
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, Salary Range $100,000 - $115,000.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's soccer
