Director, Franchise Partnership Development

JOB SUMMARY:
The 'Director, Franchise Partnership Development' will lead a team of sales professionals in creating and selling integrated corporate partnerships for the Cleveland Monsters (AHL) and Cleveland Charge (NBA G League). This role also encompasses selling across the portfolio of 'Rock Entertainment Group' properties, including 'Tennis in the Land' (WTA 250), 'Pickle in the Land', and other franchise assets.

We are looking for an experienced and dynamic leader with a strong sales background to drive new partnership revenue growth. The primary objective of the 'Director, Franchise Partnership Development' is to meet individual corporate partnership goals for both the Cleveland Monsters and Cleveland Charge, while contributing to the overall revenue targets of the franchise teams. Additionally, there may be opportunities to integrate partnerships with the Cleveland Cavaliers into franchise initiatives as needed. This position offers a competitive salary structure with commission and bonus potential.

Reports to: Sr Director, Franchise Corporate Partnerships

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and mentor a team of partnership sales professionals (3 direct reports), fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement to achieve business results and revenue goals tied to the overall sales strategy.
• Oversee outreach and negotiations with potential partners at the local, regional, and national level.
• Directly responsible for the generation of new corporate partnership revenue for the Cleveland Monsters and Cleveland Charge.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders, including marketing, community relations, and operations teams, to develop fully integrated sales proposals.
• Prospect new business clients via:
  • Investigative appointments – gathering information about the prospective company.
  • Discussions with key decision-makers – learning their needs.
  • Effective presentations – satisfying their needs through integrated solutions.
  • Dynamic programs – developing new and exciting promotions.
  • Managing obstacles – reacting to and overcoming problems or objections.
  • Accurate closing – executing contract, billing, and collecting revenue.
• Follow-up —implementing all aspects of the partnership while working daily or as needed with the partnership marketing area to ensure all the following:
  • Follow-up on all deadlines, making sure all materials are on time.
  • Assist and direct the implementation of promotions, develop POP displays, and arrange prizes.
  • Ensure proper traffic of all media.

• Stay informed on industry trends and best practices in sports partnerships to identify innovative partnership opportunities.

• Ensure that all AHL, NBA G-League, and team regulations are properly adhered to.
• Entertain and nurture relationships with current and prospective clients through the various means available.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in business, communications, marketing or a related field. 
• Candidates MUST have flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and occasional Holidays. 
• Candidates must be avaliable to work a minimum 50% of all Cleveland Monsters AND Cleveland Charge home games.
• Minimum 2 year(s) of experience in sports partnership sales, media, and/or direct sales.
• Minimum 2 year(s) of experience in sports/event marketing.
• Minimum 1 year of management experience, with at least 1 direct report. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook is required; proficiency in salesforce is preferred. 

• Strong demonstration of intellect, drive, executive presence, sales acumen, creativity, and relationship building.
• Exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.