Director of Special Event Sales

University of Oklahoma•Norman, OK

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Special Event Sales provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the planning, promotion, contracting, and execution of special events within the Athletics Department. This role is responsible for maximizing revenue generation and utilization of athletics facilities through proactive sales, relationship development, and policy leadership. The Director exercises independent judgment in developing event strategies, negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and serving as the primary liaison to campus partners, community organizations, and external clients. The position ensures all events meet institutional, conference, and NCAA standards while delivering high-quality experiences that reflect the department's mission and brand.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Business, Event Management, Hospitality, or a related field.
2 years of experience in event sales, venue operations, athletics, or large-scale event management.
Valid Driver's License.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in hospitality, sales, marketing, sports management, or related field.
Experience in conventions, banquets, entertainment, tradeshow/meetings with responsibility for scheduling, arranging, promoting meetings, lectures, exhibits, conventions, concerts or other related events.
3-4 years' experience in multipurpose venues, arenas, stadiums or convention centers.
Event management experience with large scale collegiate athletic events.
Extensive experience with special events, concerts, and venue revenue generation.
Experience with contracts, 3rd party staffing and operations.
Prior experience with event development and successful revenue generation.
Some experience planning and/or working public events.
Experience with facility/event scheduling programs.
Experience with staffing for high level events.
Experience with collegiate venue operations and facility operations.

Responsibilities

Provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the planning, promotion, contracting, and execution of special events within the Athletics Department.
Maximizes revenue generation and utilization of athletics facilities through proactive sales, relationship development, and policy leadership.
Exercises independent judgment in developing event strategies, negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and serving as the primary liaison to campus partners, community organizations, and external clients.
Ensures all events meet institutional, conference, and NCAA standards while delivering high-quality experiences that reflect the department's mission and brand.