ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Portland. On September 18, 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) awarded Portland its 15th franchise, bringing the league back to the city for the first time in over two decades. Owned and operated by the Bhathal family through RAJ Sports, the team will make its official debut in 2026 at the Moda Center. Portland is cementing itself as the epicenter of women’s sports, powered by a passionate fan base and a rich basketball culture. At Portland Fire, we’re building more than a team, we’re creating a modern, inclusive, and community-driven organization from the ground up. With innovation, integrity, and excellence at our core, our mission is to set a new standard in women’s professional basketball - delivering excellence on the court, inspiring fans, and serving the city we call home. As we prepare for our inaugural season, we’re looking for passionate, driven professionals to help shape the future of this franchise and the future of the game.
THE ROLE:
The Account Executive, Premium Sales role is responsible for generating new business with a primary focus on selling Portland Fire premium ticket offerings: courtside and club memberships, suite leases and rentals and corporate hospitality. Reporting directly to the Director of Ticket Sales, this role requires a proactive, outbound sales approach including prospecting, cold calling, and conducting virtual and in-person meetings. The ideal candidate can navigate major corporations while also engaging with high-net worth individuals. They have a proven track record of selling premium ticket products and multi-year agreements, thrive in a competitive, fast-paced environment, and are motivate to grow their career and the sport of basketball.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Sell a full menu of ticket products for the Portland Fire including, but not limited, to full and partial membership ticket packages, premium hospitality, and group outings
- Meet or exceed weekly, monthly, and annual individual performance goals
- Generate new business through an outbound sales approach including phone calls, email and text messages, and client appointments
- Develop relationships with key stakeholders through creative outreach and in-person interaction, including gameday hosting, networking events and premium sales events
- Assist in completing all ticketing agreements and collecting all monies due
- Accurately records all sales activity and client interactions within CRM system
- Work closely with the Ticket Operations department to ensure inventory integrity, and high levels of service for all customers
- Work evenings and weekends, as the need arises. All Portland Fire home games will be worked in various capacities including, but not limited to: prospecting appointments, premium club lead, and client activations
- Always represent the Portland Fire in a professional and ethical manner
- Other related duties as assigned by the Director of Ticket Sales
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:
- Bachelor’s degree preferred, experience in lieu of a degree acceptable
- Minimum of four (4) years of sales experience in sports and/or the entertainment industry, with B2B sales experience strongly preferred
- Previous experience and comfort with prospecting for new business and making outbound cold calls
- Polished presentation skills, with an ability to effectively communicate and influence C-Level executives and think and react to situations confidently
- Understand the importance of working as a team and adhere to department guidelines
- Ticketmaster & Salesforce CRM system experience preferred
WHO YOU ARE:
- Strong desire to build a career with a team that has ample opportunity for growth
- Strong work ethic, coachable, competitive, and a positive attitude
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Highly motivated with a passion for sales
- Ability to work as a great teammate
- Maintain a professional manner and can interact with all levels of the organization
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Will be walking and/or standing on feet for extended periods during basketball games and events.
BENEFITS
- Base salary plus commission
- 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 sports
Ready to Be a Game Changer in Portland? Apply Now!
If you’re ready to shape the future of Portland Fire, we want to hear from you. Join us as we make history—on and off the court.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this role.
Portland Fire is 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.
About Portland Fire Ownership, RAJ Sports:
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff, and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the Portland Fire expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports
