Overview: Empower Sports and Entertainment, LLC
The Carolina Ascent (The Gainbridge USL Super League) and the Charlotte Independence (USL League One) are looking for a Corporate Partnership Business Development Manager to join our team in Charlotte, NC.
The Corporate Partnership sales position is responsible for sales of Carolina Ascent and Charlotte Independence sponsorship elements including but limited to the following team advertising assets and programs outlined below:
TV, internet, print/publications, promotions, community programs and suites/tickets. In addition to sponsorship sales, this position will have a strong emphasis on driving revenue and/or covering expenses for many of the company’s current and potential outreach programs and other franchise priorities. A general summary of job responsibilities follows:
The Corporate Partnership Business Development Manager will be a key driver of revenue growth for Carolina Ascent FC & Charlotte Independence, responsible for identifying, prospecting, and securing new corporate partnerships. This role requires a strategic & creative thinker with a proven sales track record, excellent relationship-building skills, and a passion for the sports industry. The Manager will play a crucial role in expanding the club's commercial footprint and delivering impactful value to our partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and research potential corporate partners whose brand values and objectives align with Carolina Ascent FC & Charlotte FC
- Maintain a robust pipeline of prospects
- Develop and implement comprehensive sales strategies to generate new business leads and achieve ambitious revenue targets.
- Create compelling, customized partnership proposals that integrate club assets with partner marketing and business goals.
- Lead the negotiation process from initial contact to contract execution, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective partners, fostering long-term collaborations.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams, including Marketing, Operations, Community Relations and Ticketing, to ensure seamless activation and fulfillment of all partnership elements.
- Represent Carolina Ascent FC & Charlotte Independence professionally at industry events, networking functions, and partner meetings.
- Maintain accurate records of sales activities, pipeline, and forecasts using CRM software.
- Stay informed on industry trends, competitive landscape, and best practices in sports sponsorship.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of proven experience in B2B sales, with a strong preference for experience in sports, entertainment, or media sponsorship sales.
- Demonstrated ability to meet and exceed sales targets.
- Exceptional negotiation, presentation, and communication skills (written and verbal).
- Proficiency in developing creative and strategic partnership solutions.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficiency with CRM systems & Microsoft Office Suite.
The Ideal Candidate
- A highly motivated, results-oriented individual with a strong work ethic.
- Possesses excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport quickly.
- Excellent cusotmer serivce skills
- A creative problem-solver who can think strategically and adapt to evolving client needs.
- Passionate about soccer and the growth of the sport in the community.
- Able to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable working evenings and weekends as required by events and business needs.
Why Join Carolina Ascent FC?
- Be a part of a dynamic and growing professional sports organization.
- Opportunity to significantly impact the club's commercial success and community engagement.
- Work in an exciting and passionate industry.
- Collaborate with a dedicated and supportive team.
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.
