SUMMARY
The Partnership Sales Manager will be responsible for driving new business opportunities, managing commercial relationships, and maximising revenue from partnerships and sponsorships. This position will work closely with the Chief Commercial Officer to align partnership strategies with the club’s commercial goals.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES
Partnership Acquisition:
1. Identify, pitch, and secure new sponsors and partners aligned with the club's values and objectives.
2. Build and maintain a pipeline of potential partnership opportunities through research, networking, and market analysis.
Strategic Development:
1. Work with the CCO to develop and execute a partnership strategy that aligns with the club’s commercial objectives.
2. Identify new sectors, industries, or untapped opportunities to expand the partnership portfolio.
Revenue Growth:
1. Contribute to achieving the club’s annual revenue targets by securing high-value, long-term partnerships.
2. Develop tailored proposals and presentations to meet partner needs and showcase ROI.
Collaboration:
1. Coordinate with internal teams (marketing, operations, hospitality, and ticketing) to enhance sponsorship assets available to partners.
2. Work with the wider commercial team to create integrated campaigns that maximise partnership value.
Performance Analysis:
1. Work with Partnership Service Team to track and analyse partnership performance metrics to assess success and suggest improvements.
2. Prepare regular updates and reports for the CCO, detailing progress against targets and key activities.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
* Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.
* Minimum 3-5 years in sponsorship sales or partnership management.
* Enthusiastic, results-driven, and passionate about football and sports business.
* Proven Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in a sales or partnership role, ideally in a sports or entertainment setting.
* Networking Ability: Strong network of contacts in industries relevant to sponsorship.
* Skilled at building and maintaining high-value relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
* Communication & Negotiation: Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
* Results-Oriented: A track record of meeting or exceeding financial targets.
* Creative Thinking: Ability to design bespoke sponsorship packages that appeal to a wide range of industries.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.
SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN & VULNERABLE ADULTS
Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC owes a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the football club. Sunderland AFC will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club.
Job Type: Permanent
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Schedule:
* Monday to Friday
* Weekend availability
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 10/02/2025
Reference ID: Partnership Sales Manager
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