Director, Business Development - University of Arkansas

Learfield is seeking a strategic and results-driven sales leader to join our growing sponsorship team. If you have a passion for sports, proven success in team leadership, and a track record of driving revenue through integrated partnerships, this is your opportunity to lead a high-performing sales team in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.In this role, you’ll oversee the sales strategy and performance of the property, managing a team of sellers and driving revenue growth through new business and renewals. You’ll lead the development of integrated sponsorship solutions, foster alignment with university stakeholders, and play a critical role in shaping the property's presence in the local and national marketplace.Essential Duties & Responsibilities:Lead a team of sellers responsible for achieving individual and team revenue goals.Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, clients, and internal stakeholders—serving as a trusted and respected representative of both Learfield and the university.Drive new business and strategic renewals by developing creative, integrated sponsorship opportunities across digital, social, in-venue, broadcast, and experiential platformsSet annual revenue targets, track progress, and manage performance across a diverse teamDevelop and deliver high-quality proposals and presentations to local, regional, and national brandsBuild and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, and internal stakeholders—serving as a trusted and respected representative of both Learfield and the universityPartner with property leadership to create and manage inventory strategy and pricingRecruit, coach, and develop sales talent to elevate performance and support long-term team growthIdentify emerging trends in sports marketing and bring forward new ideas to maximize impactRepresent the property in high-visibility meetings, hospitality events, and game day activations (including nights and weekends as needed)Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation across the teamMinimum Qualifications:10+ years of successful sales experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership capacityDemonstrated success driving revenue growth and managing high-performing sales teamsAbility to craft integrated marketing strategies that align with client and university objectivesStrong interpersonal and negotiation skills, with experience influencing executive-level decision makersProven track record of setting and achieving sales targets in a competitive, performance-driven environmentExcellent communication, organization, and presentation skillsProficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM platformsWillingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed to support athletic events or client activations.Preferred Qualifications:Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university.Experience selling comprehensive sports marketing partnerships including major media (signage, radio, social, digital, etc.)Familiarity with collegiate athletics and working with university stakeholdersKnowledge of digital marketing trends and performance analyticsLearfield offers a full spectrum of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance and Other Insurance Plans, Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave, 20 Paid Holidays, 401(k) + Match, and Short/Long Term Disability. Leave benefits are consistent with state and local laws, including the Colorado Health Families and Workplaces Act.Learfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.
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