What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Manager - Grand Forks Softball position at Grand Forks Softball?
General Manager – Grand Forks, ND
About Grand Forks Northwoods League Softball
Grand Forks will be home to a Northwoods League Softball (NWLS) team beginning in the 2026 season, bringing high-level summer collegiate softball to the region. The team will compete at Albrecht Field on the campus of the University of North Dakota, providing top college softball players from across North America with an opportunity to develop their skills in a competitive environment while delivering high-energy entertainment for fans.
The Position
Grand Forks Northwoods League Softball is seeking a General Manager to lead the organization’s business and operational success. The primary focus of this role will be driving revenue through sponsorship and ticket sales, along with overseeing game-day operations, community engagement, and overall team success. This position requires a passionate, motivated, and results-driven leader who can build strong relationships with corporate partners and fans to establish a thriving franchise.
The General Manager will work closely with ownership, league officials, front-office staff, and the Grand Forks community to grow the team’s presence and ensure a sustainable and profitable operation.
Roles and Responsibilities
Revenue & Business Development
- Sponsorship Sales & Partnerships:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive sponsorship sales strategy to secure partnerships with local businesses.
- Identify and engage potential sponsors through networking, direct outreach, and relationship-building efforts.
- Create and sell customized sponsorship packages, including stadium signage, digital advertising, promotional nights, and community programs.
- Maintain strong relationships with current sponsors while continuously seeking new partnership opportunities.
- Work closely with the marketing to ensure sponsor activations are seamlessly integrated into promotions and game-day experiences.
- Track and report sponsorship sales performance, ensuring all contractual agreements are fulfilled.
- Ticket Sales & Fan Engagement:
- Develop and implement a ticket sales strategy focused on maximizing attendance for all home games.
- Lead group sales efforts by targeting businesses, schools, youth sports organizations, and community groups.
- Oversee season ticket, mini-plan, and single-game ticket sales campaigns, utilizing promotions, direct sales, and digital marketing efforts.
- Build and maintain relationships with season ticket holders, ensuring top-tier customer service and engagement.
- Train and oversee sales staff and interns to ensure they are achieving individual and team sales goals.
- Create ticket packages and pricing strategies that align with market demand and revenue goals.
- Develop community outreach programs to introduce the team to new audiences and potential ticket buyers.
- Additional Revenue Streams:
- Identify and develop new revenue opportunities, including merchandise sales, concessions, and special events.
- Collaborate with the operations team to implement game-day promotions, theme nights, and giveaway campaigns that drive ticket sales.
- Partner with food & beverage providers to optimize revenue generation through concession sales.
- Explore non-game day revenue opportunities such as hosting tournaments, corporate outings, and facility rentals.
Game Day & Event Operations
- Oversee all aspects of game-day operations to deliver an exciting and seamless experience for fans, players, and sponsors.
- Ensure proper staffing, including hiring and managing seasonal game-day employees such as ushers, ticket takers, promotions staff, and food & beverage workers.
- Work closely with stadium operations to ensure the facility is game-ready, including seating, concessions, signage, and entertainment areas.
- Coordinate in-game entertainment, music, mascot appearances, and fan engagement activities to create a memorable atmosphere.
- Supervise sponsor activations, ensuring contractual obligations are met and maximizing sponsor visibility.
- Manage pre-game, in-game, and post-game logistics, including ceremonial first pitches, anthem performances, and on-field promotions.
- Analyze game-day operations for efficiency improvements and implement new strategies as needed.
Community & Public Relations
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the team, fostering strong relationships with businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders.
- Represent the team at networking events, corporate meetings, and civic organizations to promote sponsorships and ticket sales.
- Develop and execute a community engagement plan that includes charitable partnerships, school programs, and outreach initiatives.
- Coordinate with local media outlets, including television, radio, and print, to ensure strong coverage of the team and its events.
- Oversee the execution of community programs, including youth clinics, player appearances, and charitable initiatives.
- Work with marketing and social media teams to increase brand awareness and engage with fans online.
Team & Staff Management
- Recruit, hire, and lead front-office and game-day staff, focusing on building a high-performance team culture.
- Set individual and team sales goals for sponsorship and ticketing staff, providing training and ongoing support to drive success.
- Develop and oversee internship programs, ensuring young professionals gain valuable experience while contributing to team operations.
- Collaborate with the coaching staff and league officials to ensure a well-organized and competitive on-field product.
- Maintain clear and open communication between front-office staff, game-day employees, and ownership to align goals and expectations.
- Conduct regular staff meetings to ensure alignment and effectiveness across all departments.
General Team Responsibilities
- Game Day & Event Availability: Expected to be available for all home games and team events, including weekends and holidays.
- Office Hours: Expected to maintain a full-time presence during business hours, with additional time as needed during the season.
- Ballpark & Event Setup: Assist in pre-season, in-season, and post-season facility preparation.
- Other Duties as Assigned: Contribute to the overall success of the organization in any capacity needed.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Proven experience in sales, sponsorship, and business development (sports industry preferred).
- Strong ability to build relationships and close deals with corporate partners and ticket buyers.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Passion for sports and a commitment to delivering an outstanding fan experience.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive base salary with additional earning potential tied to team success.
- Unlimited PTO (with seasonal restrictions).