ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Rip City. 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 Director of Ticket Sales reports to the VP Ticket Sales & Service and is responsible for driving new business and group ticket sales for the Portland Fire. This role will be responsible for exceeding revenue goals across multiple products including full and partial season plans, premium seating and group ticketing. They will oversee the day-to-day management and personal development of the new business and group sales staff, while also developing sales campaigns to generate new business.
The ideal candidate will be a proven sales leader with a history of building high-performing, results-oriented teams, and fostering a positive, high-energy sales culture. They will bring an innovative, data-driven approach to sales strategy and strive to exceed all sales goals, while prioritizing long-term fan development.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Manage and develop a high-performing team of ticketing sales representatives.
- Set clear performance metrics, conduct regular performance reviews, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Maintain a deep understanding of sales pipelines, helping navigate team members through the sales process to successfully close key accounts.
- Develop and execute innovative ticket sales campaigns to achieve annual revenue goals for all ticketing products.
- Collaborate with other departments to create a cohesive strategy for campaign deployment, lead generation and an exceptional fan experience.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:
- Bachelor's degree preferred or experience in lieu of a degree.
- 5+ years of sales experience and 3+ years of sales management experience, preferably in professional sports.
- History of building high-performing, results-oriented sales teams including hiring, training, motivating and developing sales staff .
- Track record of consistently exceeding revenue targets across multiple products.
- Strong background in B2B, B2C and group sales.
- Ability to analyze sales data to inform strategy and decision-making.
- Prior Archtics & Salesforce experience preferred.
WHO YOU ARE:
- You lead by example and are deeply invested in the growth and success of your team and the organization as a whole.
- You possess an entrepreneurial spirit and thrive in a rapidly changing, fast-paced work environment. You are not afraid to be hands-on.
- You have a deep understanding of how tactical decisions connect to the large business plan and impact the overall success of the business.
- You are experienced in building a team; including recruiting, onboarding and developing talent.
- You have excellent communication and presentation skills.
- You are capable of building strong relationships with your staff, our team and our fans and partners.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, Salary Range $95,000-105,000
- 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 basketball
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
