Manager, Sports Event Development

Job Title:

Manager, Sports Event Development

Department:

Business Development & Services

Reports to:

Director, Business Development

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt, Full-time

Supervisory Responsibilities:

May occasionally oversee interns as needed.

About Discover Kalamazoo:

Discover Kalamazoo is the official destination marketing organization for Kalamazoo County, dedicated to promoting the vibrant community, rich culture, and unique attractions that make Kalamazoo a must-visit destination. Our team of passionate professionals works tirelessly to inspire both visitors and residents to explore all that Kalamazoo has to offer, from its thriving arts scene to its world-class museums, breweries, and outdoor adventures.

Position Summary:

The Manager of Sports Event Development works to support the mission of Discover Kalamazoo and Discover Kalamazoo Sports by developing, promoting, and securing sports-related events. This role is responsible for increasing visitor spending and generating positive promotional exposure for the region. The Manager will actively engage with event planners, local venues, and potential partners to drive business development, secure new sports events, and create strategic opportunities that align with Kalamazoo's offerings.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and nurture relationships with local, regional, state, and national sports event planners and organizations to generate visitor spending and promotional exposure for Kalamazoo.
• This role requires frequent in-person and impromptu meetings with various partners to build and maintain relationships.
• Conduct ongoing sales prospecting through research, networking, and outreach to identify new business opportunities, build a pipeline of potential clients, and cultivate relationships that support long-term growth.
• Provide top-tier event services, including understanding the group’s needs, developing service plans, and ensuring the execution of those services with the help of the internal team.
• Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to support and promote sports events and make Kalamazoo a prime destination for sporting events.
• Support Michigan Sports Commission initiatives and collaborate on regional sports event development efforts.
• Evaluate the success, challenges, and financial impact of sports events using key metrics and analytics.
• Maintain accurate data in CRM software for reporting and analysis.
• Travel approximately 25 nights per year, or up to 10% of the time, as needed for event development and promotion.
• Perform other duties as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to assist in various capacities.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, sports management, hospitality, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 1-3 years of experience in sports event management or a related field.
• Knowledge of the regional sports market, including potential hosting venues.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and work effectively with partners at all levels.
• Excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM software.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Preferred Requirements:

• Familiarity with the Kalamazoo area, including local business owners and hospitality providers.
• Ability to speak and understand languages other than English.

Physical Demands:

This position requires the ability to stoop and lift items weighing up to 25 pounds. It also involves repetitive motions such as bending and reaching. Frequent use of hands and fingers is necessary to handle, feel, or operate equipment, along with regular reaching with hands and arms. Occasionally, the role will require lifting, moving, carrying, pulling, and pushing objects while in various positions, including sitting, standing, climbing, or walking. Additionally, specific vision capabilities are essential, including close and distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus as needed.

Work Environment:

The work environment for this position is primarily in a general office setting where lighting and temperature are adequate, and no hazardous conditions are present. Regularly, the role involves working at large gatherings, both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to various climate conditions and large crowds. Temperature conditions vary based on the time and location, and the noise level is typically moderate or conversational.

Schedule:

This position primarily requires availability from Monday to Friday; however, weekends will be required based on business needs and special events. A flexible remote work hybrid schedule is available, with certain days required in the office to ensure team collaboration and support for in-person operations.

Alignment with Our Values:

At Discover Kalamazoo, we are looking for individuals who align with our core values and can embody them daily:

• Outstanding Ambassadors: We are passionately proud of our community and strive to represent it with operational excellence
• Diversity and Inclusion: We commit to equity, recognizing that it is the foundation of diversity and inclusion. We aim to reflect the diversity of our community and visitors to ensure all feel valued and welcomed.
• Contagious Positivity: We maintain a positive attitude, acting with positive intent and assuming the same of others. Our cups are always half full.
• Growth Mindset: We are curious and courageous, encouraging ourselves and each other to try new things and not fear failure
• Integrity and Empathy: We operate with honesty, transparency, and ethics. We care deeply about our team's well-being and treat everyone with dignity and respect.

It is essential for all team members to understand these values and live them in their daily interactions and work.

Compensation:

The salary for this position is between $45,000 and $50,000 annually, based on experience, with the potential for additional bonuses.

Benefits:

Discover Kalamazoo offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members' well-being and professional growth. This includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), generous paid time off (PTO) starting at 19 days per year, parental leave, short- and long-term disability insurance, and a cell phone reimbursement program. We also provide opportunities for professional development with tuition assistance and wellness reimbursements to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Additional benefits include a pet-friendly main office and support for nursing mothers. Our benefits reflect our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where all team members feel valued and empowered.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Discover Kalamazoo is an equal opportunity employer that fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure full participation in the hiring process and all aspects of employment.