About Denton Diablos:
The Denton Diablos are an up-and-coming minor league soccer team dedicated to providing our fans with an unforgettable sports experience and fostering a strong sense of community. As we continue to grow and build our brand, we are looking for a Sponsorship Intern to join our team. This person will play a key role in supporting the team's efforts to secure and manage corporate sponsorships. This individual will gain hands-on experience in sports business development, sales, marketing, and client relations within a fast-paced and passionate environment. The intern will directly contribute to the financial health and growth of the team by assisting in the entire sponsorship lifecycle, from prospecting to fulfillment, we want you on our team!
Position Overview:
The Sponsorship Intern will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the team’s sponsorship operations, including supporting the team's efforts to secure and manage corporate sponsorships. This individual will gain hands-on experience in sports business development, sales, marketing, and client relations within a fast-paced and passionate environment. The intern will directly contribute to the financial health and growth of the team by assisting in the entire sponsorship lifecycle, from prospecting to fulfillment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Market Research & Prospecting:
- Identify and research potential local, regional, and national businesses that align with the team's values and target audience.
- Compile comprehensive lists of prospective sponsors, including contact information and key decision-makers.
- Research industry trends and competitor sponsorship strategies.
- Sales Support & Outreach:
- Assist in drafting compelling sponsorship proposals, presentations, and sales materials.
- Support outreach efforts through email campaigns, phone calls, and other communication channels to prospective sponsors.
- Help schedule meetings and follow-ups with potential partners.
- Participate in sponsorship meetings and pitches as appropriate.
- Sponsorship Activation & Fulfillment:
- Assist in the execution and fulfillment of sponsorship agreements, ensuring all contracted deliverables are met (e.g., signage, digital assets, promotional events).
- Help manage sponsor inventory and track activation progress.
- Support the creation of post-sponsorship reports detailing ROI for partners.
- Database Management:
- Maintain and update the team's CRM or sponsorship database with accurate prospect and client information.
- Track communication and sales progress.
- Event Support:
- Assist with game day operations and other team events, specifically as they relate to sponsor activation and hospitality.
- Support sponsor-related activations at the stadium or community events.
- Administrative Support:
- Provide general administrative support to the sponsorship department as needed.
- Assist with preparing meeting agendas and taking minutes.
- Brand Alignment:
- Ensure all sponsors, groups, and promotions reflect the team’s brand and mission while appealing to fans’ interests.
- Reporting:
- Track sales performance, manage budgets, and report on sponsors, identifying opportunities for growth and improvement.
Qualifications:
- Experience: Previous experience in retail, sponsorship sales, or sales coordination, preferably in the sports or entertainment industry.
- Education: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Bachelor's degree program in Sports Management, Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field.
- Fan-Centric: Passionate about creating positive experiences for sponsors.
- Organizational Skills: Proactive, self-motivated, and detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
- Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external vendors.
- Creative: Ability to work with the marketing and design teams to create engaging merchandise collections and promotional materials.
- Availability: Flexible to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during home games and special events.
Learning Outcomes & Benefits for the Intern:
- Gain practical, hands-on experience in sports sponsorship sales and marketing.
- Develop valuable professional networking contacts within the sports industry.
- Learn about the operational aspects of a semi-professional sports organization.
- Enhance communication, research, and organizational skills.
- Opportunity to see the direct impact of your work on the team's success.
- Team merchandise and potential for future roles.
Why Join Us?
- Be Part of a Growing Brand: Help build and manage the merchandise side of a rising soccer team with passionate fans.
- Creative Opportunity: Work closely with the marketing team to develop unique products and promotional campaigns that excite our fanbase.
- Impact: Your role will directly contribute to the fan experience and help grow the team’s presence in the community.
- Collaborative Environment: Work in a dynamic, fast-paced team with passionate individuals who love soccer and sports culture.
We are 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.
