Sales Director Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, International Business, Sports Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in international sales, business development, strategic partnerships, or a related commercial leadership role.
• Demonstrated success developing new markets, driving revenue growth, and managing complex international sales pipelines.
• Experience negotiating and managing strategic partnerships with global clients, agencies, or distributors.
• Experience working with premium clientele, luxury hospitality, sports, entertainment, or destination marketing organizations preferred.
• Strong understanding of international business practices, market expansion strategies, and cross-cultural relationship management.
• Experience utilizing CRM platforms, sales analytics, and forecasting tools to drive business performance.
• Ability to travel internationally and work evenings, weekends, and major events as business needs require.
• Strategic business development and relationship management
• International sales and market expansion expertise
• Executive presence with exceptional communication and negotiation skills
• Strong analytical, financial, and business acumen
• Cross-cultural communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to influence, collaborate, and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM platforms, and sales reporting tools
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Kentucky racing license and successfully complete all applicable background check requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead international business development initiatives to drive revenue growth in ticketing and partnerships, and expand the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby brand.
• Identify and evaluate new international market opportunities through market research and competitive analysis.
• Develop and execute market expansion plans, including market entry strategies, product positioning, and growth objectives.
• Identify opportunities to increase international market presence and long-term business growth.
• Develop and execute international sales strategies that achieve revenue and pipeline objectives.
• Build and manage relationships with international clients, agencies, and high-net-worth individuals.
• Drive lead generation, sales campaigns, and business development initiatives across target markets.
• Provide accurate sales forecasting, pipeline reporting, and performance analysis.
• Cultivate strategic partnerships with international agencies, distributors, and key stakeholders.
• Represent Churchill Downs at international trade shows, conferences, and industry events.
• Foster cross-cultural relationships that strengthen the Churchill Downs brand and support market expansion.
• Execute international sales and business development initiatives that expand the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs brand while driving international ticket sales and commercial revenue growth.
• Adapt sales strategies and business approaches to meet the cultural, regulatory, and logistical needs of each market.
• Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, corporate policies, and risk management practices.
• Monitor performance and recommend opportunities to improve operational effectiveness and market growth.
• Perform other duties as assigned.