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Director, Business Development - University of Arkansas

100 LEARFIELD · Multiple locations ·

Pay:
100.000
Job type:
Full Time

Learfield is seeking a strategic and results-driven sales leader to join our growing sponsorship team. In this role, you will oversee the sales strategy and performance of the property, manage a team of sellers, and drive revenue growth through new business and renewals. You will 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.

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 platforms.
  • Set annual revenue targets, track progress, and manage performance across a diverse team.
  • Develop and deliver high‑quality proposals and presentations to local, regional, and national brands.
  • Partner with property leadership to create and manage inventory strategy and pricing.
  • Recruit, coach, and develop sales talent to elevate performance and support long‑term team growth.
  • Identify emerging trends in sports marketing and bring forward new ideas to maximize impact.
  • Represent 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 team.

Minimum Qualifications

  • 10+ years of successful sales experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership capacity.
  • Demonstrated success driving revenue growth and managing high‑performing sales teams.
  • Ability to craft integrated marketing strategies that align with client and university objectives.
  • Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, with experience influencing executive‑level decision makers.
  • Proven track record of setting and achieving sales targets in a competitive, performance‑driven environment.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and presentation skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms.
  • Willingness 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 stakeholders.
  • Knowledge of digital marketing trends and performance analytics.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Health Savings Account.
  • Life Insurance and other insurance plans.
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually).
  • Parental Leave.
  • 20 Paid Holidays.
  • 401(k) with match.
  • Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability.

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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