Senior Business Development Manager

Learfield Sports Properties•Berkeley, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic, results-oriented sales professional to join our growing sponsorship team. This role offers an opportunity to lead high-value accounts and drive revenue growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The Senior Business Development Manager will manage a diverse portfolio of sponsors, oversee complex campaigns, and play a key role in both renewal strategy and new business development. This position is ideal for a seasoned closer who thrives on both autonomy and impact.

Requirements

Typically 6+ years of successful outside, consultative, or business-to-business sales experience with demonstrated responsibility for developing new business and managing client relationships.
Demonstrated success managing a book of business and exceeding revenue goals
Strong ability to build marketing strategies tailored to client needs
Advanced negotiating skills and ability to influence senior-level decision makers
Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills
Comfort navigating CRM systems and working within a performance-driven sales environment
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for game days and events

Nice To Haves

Experience selling integrated sports marketing partnerships including major media (signage, radio, social, digital, etc.)
Knowledge of digital marketing platforms, content sponsorship, and campaign analytics
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university

Responsibilities

Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals through new business development and strategic renewals.
Own the full sales cycle, including prospecting, relationship development, proposal creation, presentations, contract negotiation, closing, and post-sale execution.
Regularly meet with prospective and existing clients at their places of business, athletic events, or other off-site locations to cultivate relationships, present sponsorship opportunities, and secure new and expanded partnerships.
Manage a defined book of business, including high-value accounts and key partnership renewals.
Develop integrated sponsorship proposals across digital, social, broadcast, in-venue, and experiential platforms that align with client objectives and university assets.
Lead strategic renewal planning and identify opportunities to grow existing partnerships in collaboration with sales leadership.
Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, corporate partners, and internal stakeholders, serving as a trusted representative of both LEARFIELD and the university.
Partner with internal teams to ensure seamless campaign execution and fulfillment, maintaining alignment with client expectations and contractual commitments.
Serve as a mentor and resource to junior sellers while supporting local leadership in advancing overall team performance.
Represent the property at client meetings, hospitality events, industry functions, and athletic events, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Stay informed on industry trends, sponsorship best practices, brand activations, digital marketing strategies, and emerging platforms to identify new revenue opportunities.
Perform other related duties as assigned.