Director, Business Development, esports - SPORTFIVE

Organization: SPORTFIVE

Position Title: Director, Business Development - esports

Reports to: Head of Esports/VP, Business Development (Americas)

Location: New York, NY

Search Contact: Prodigy Search

BACKGROUND

SPORTFIVE utilizes the unique emotional power of sports to create and enable pioneering partnerships in sports. By delivering responsible commercialization, full-service-solutions, and long-term value for all stakeholders in sports, SPORTFIVE strategically and creatively connects brands, rightsholders, media platforms and fans by leveraging a global network paired with decades of experience and innovative spirit. As market leader and with customer centricity and vast data intelligence at its core, SPORTFIVE often leads the sports business into the future through its innovative digital solutions and thereby always aims to be the most progressive and respected partner in sports. SPORTFIVE operates as an international sports business and marketing agency with a global mindset and network of over 1,200 local experts based in 15 countries around the world, active in soccer, golf, esports, motorsport, handball, tennis, American football and many more. For more information, please visit SPORTFIVE’s website, content hub and social profiles.

SPORTFIVE holds a significant position across the global esports and gaming industry and was responsible in 2021 for generating more than $50 million in partnership revenue. The agency launched a dedicated global esports unit in August 2020 led by Eike Gyllensvärd, President Global Esports and Gaming and recently announced an expansion of its esports capabilities in the US (led by Ryan Polun). The agency’s global esports business is supported by its vast global network of local market experts across brand and rightsholder management, partnership sales, and activation.

SUMMARY

This role has the primary responsibility for revenue generation by creating sales opportunities, developing partnership proposals, and supporting the broader team in achieving the successful sales of esports and gaming products/services.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Key member of the US Commercial team with a primary focus on generating revenue across SPORTFIVE’s esports and gaming rights holder clients - this includes publishers, leagues, teams, and jewel events
• Work with the US Commercial team, SPORTFIVE esports subject matter experts, and our expansive global sales network to manage internal sales processes around esports strategy, rightsholder development/management, and commercial sales
• Develop, lead, and manage sales pitch process, including proposal development, pitch presentation(s), negotiation of terms and contract completion
• Conduct smart, proactive, strategic outreach to potential property and brand clients and their key stakeholders
• Build and maintain an active pipeline of prospects by using macro and micro market trends, sound product knowledge and deep understanding of brand marketing to strategically identify relevant clients
• Monitor all relevant media and trade journals to identify new esports business sector opportunities
• Manage RFIs/RFPs – working with internal business leaders to ensure deadlines met and best work product is presented
• Work with internal stakeholders to support thought leadership for and promotion of SPORTFIVE esports business unit growth
• Work closely with S5 HQ Germany to develop key value propositions, product opportunities, sales materials, and data/insight analytics, to ensure sales intentions are robust and compelling
• Liaise with SPORTFIVE international territories and subsidiary agencies where necessary to work collaboratively on relevant projects
• Work with internal CRM team to manage reporting

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5-7 years of esports-specific or relevant property and/or agency experience, within sports & entertainment
• Ideal candidate would have experience with esports or traditional sports sponsorship sales and possess a strong understanding of rightsholder development and management
• Must maintain a proven track record of generating revenue with consistent, positive results
• Possess a working knowledge of media and content development
• Team player that is aggressive, takes initiative and leads
• Domestic and some international travel may be required for this role
• Expected to have strong verbal, written and presentation skills
• Deadline driven, organized and able to multi-task
• Proficient in Microsoft office, sales CRM, and Apple programs (e.g., Keynote)

CONTACT INFORMATION

Founded in 2007, Prodigy Search, located in the New York City suburb of Freehold, NJ, boasts over 80 years of experience in the sports and entertainment business. As a renowned nationwide leader in senior-level executive search, Prodigy Search has honed its business principles and expertise, establishing itself as the largest boutique recruiting agency in North America. Simply, Prodigy Search is Where the Best Brands Come for the Best Talent.

No phone calls please. For any additional questions, please email info@prodigysearch.net.

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