Director, Professional Tennis Business Development

USTA National Tennis Center • Purchase, NY

4d • $115,000 - $130,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Experiential Business will serve as the architect of premium, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for tennis fans and corporate partners. This role connects clients with professional tennis players through strategic programming, hospitality activations, and bespoke engagements centered around the US Open and year-round initiatives. The Director is responsible for the strategic development, commercialization, and execution of all player-driven experiential programs, working cross-functionally with Sales, Hospitality, Player Services, and external partners to deliver world-class experiences.

Requirements

• 5+ years of relevant experience in sports, events, hospitality, or experiential marketing.
• Strong operational background in large-scale event execution; tennis experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and convert high-value opportunities in premium sports environments.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, Sports Management, or a related field.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills; able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Exceptional organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence.
• Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• High level of professionalism and discretion when handling confidential information.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic planning, development, and execution of experiential programs that connect professional players with VIP and corporate clientele.
• Partner with US Open commercial teams to design premium player-driven experiences for sale to partners and clients.
• Manage relationships with official US Open partners to fulfill player appearance and activation needs.
• Cultivate and expand relationships with players, legends, and agents to support experiential programming.
• Prepare for the 2027 transition to fully internalized partner player services (elimination of third-party vendors).
• Identify and develop new revenue opportunities across local, national, and international markets, including: Country clubs College tennis programs Private tennis clubs Corporate hospitality clients
• Design and launch new 2027 experiential programs, including: Expert host experiences Pro-am events Off-site activations
• Develop long-term programming plans for legends and current players within club and premium hospitality spaces.
• Conduct market research and networking across major global sporting events (e.g., Formula 1, Super Bowl, Golf Majors, FIFA World Cup 2026).
• Support other major tennis and sports events as needed (e.g., Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, NCAA Championships).
• Enhance project management and operational tracking through Salesforce and related systems.
• Analyze client and player feedback to identify opportunities for program improvement and innovation.
• Lead the execution of all US Open experiential programs in coordination with Elevate, Hospitality, Player Services, Facilities, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee scheduling and delivery of 200+ player appearances across the three-week event.
• Manage the legends and current player suite appearance programs.
• Build, train, and manage a seasonal operations team to support daily execution.
• Oversee player scheduling, contracts, invoicing, and communications with players and agents.
• Execute all current player ambassador agreements, including: Content shoots Social media deliverables On-site appearances
• Manage all off-site experiential activations during the US Open.
• Coordinate player appearances with internal stakeholders (e.g., USTA Coaching, USTA Foundation, Fountain Stage).
• Oversee the backstage tour program.
• Manage US Open Legends match programming.
• Provide operational support to Player Services, including: Practice desk Transportation Staffing coordination

Benefits

• Flexibility: Our Hybrid with Flexibility approach combines a balance of remote working with in-office collaboration to spark teamwork and creativity.
• Comprehensive benefits designed to meet your unique needs: Medical, dental, vision, access to doctors virtually, a flexible spending account to manage your health and dependent care expenses, and life and disability insurance are a small part of our offerings.
• Time to recharge and energize: Generous paid time off policy - including vacation, sick, personal, and paid holidays, parental leave, and a paid winter recess.
• Plan for your future financially and professionally: 401(k) with employer matching (up to 3%), promotional and growth opportunities, Learning and Development programs to learn on the job, and up to $5,000 for tuition reimbursement.
• Mental and emotional wellness: Resources for overall well-being including mental health and meditation benefits.
• Other cool perks: A personalized health management program, pet insurance, commuter benefits, identity theft protection, discounts with our network of partners, and fun events are just a few of the optional benefits available.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director