Learfield

Senior Business Development Manager - University of Georgia

Learfield$80K — $120K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 6+ years of successful outside sales experience, preferably B2B or consultative sales.
  • Proven track record of managing a book of business and exceeding revenue goals.
  • Ability to create marketing strategies based on client needs.
  • Advanced negotiation skills with senior-level executives.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Proficient in CRM systems and performance-driven sales environments.
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends for events.

Responsibilities

  • Meet/exceed revenue goals through new business and strategic renewals.
  • Own the sales cycle from prospecting to post-sale execution.
  • Engage with clients at events or off-site to present opportunities.
  • Manage a portfolio of high-value accounts and renewals.
  • Develop integrated sponsorship proposals aligned with client objectives.
  • Lead renewal planning and identify growth opportunities with existing partners.
  • Build strong relationships with university and corporate partners.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
  • Health Savings Account and Life Insurance plans.
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave.
  • 20 Paid Holidays per year.
  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions.
  • Short/Long Term Disability coverage.
  • Comprehensive leave benefits in accordance with state and local laws.
Full Job Description
We’re seeking a strategic, results-oriented sales professional to join our growing sponsorship team. If you have a passion for sports and a track record of cultivating meaningful partnerships, this is your opportunity to lead high-value accounts and help drive revenue growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

In this role, you will manage a diverse portfolio of sponsors, oversee complex campaigns, and play a key role in both renewal strategy and new business development. You'll lead sales efforts from pitch to close, collaborate with internal and university stakeholders, and help shape our presence in the marketplace. This position is ideal for a seasoned closer who thrives on both autonomy and impact.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals through new business development and strategic renewals.
  • Own the full sales cycle, including prospecting, relationship development, proposal creation, presentations, contract negotiation, closing, and post-sale execution.
  • Regularly meet with prospective and existing clients at their places of business, athletic events, or other off-site locations to cultivate relationships, present sponsorship opportunities, and secure new and expanded partnerships.
  • Manage a defined book of business, including high-value accounts and key partnership renewals.
  • Develop integrated sponsorship proposals across digital, social, broadcast, in-venue, and experiential platforms that align with client objectives and university assets.
  • Lead strategic renewal planning and identify opportunities to grow existing partnerships in collaboration with sales leadership.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, corporate partners, and internal stakeholders, serving as a trusted representative of both Learfield and the university.
  • Partner with internal teams to ensure seamless campaign execution and fulfillment, maintaining alignment with client expectations and contractual commitments.
  • Serve as a mentor and resource to junior sellers while supporting local leadership in advancing overall team performance.
  • Represent the property at client meetings, hospitality events, industry functions, and athletic events, including evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Stay informed on industry trends, sponsorship best practices, brand activations, digital marketing strategies, and emerging platforms to identify new revenue opportunities.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Typically 6+ years of successful outside, consultative, or business-to-business sales experience with demonstrated responsibility for developing new business and managing client relationships.
  • Demonstrated success managing a book of business and exceeding revenue goals
  • Strong ability to build marketing strategies tailored to client needs
  • Advanced negotiating skills and ability to influence senior-level decision makers
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills
  • Comfort navigating CRM systems and working within a performance-driven sales environment
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for game days and events

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience selling integrated sports marketing partnerships including major media (signage, radio, social, digital, etc.)
  • Knowledge of digital marketing platforms, content sponsorship, and campaign analytics
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university

Learfield offers a full spectrum of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance and Other Insurance Plans, Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave, 20 Paid Holidays, 401(k) + Match, and Short/Long Term Disability. Leave benefits are consistent with state and local laws, including the Colorado Health Families and Workplaces Act.

About Learfield

An industry leader for more than four decades, Learfield has a deep presence in the college athletics landscape nationwide. It manages the multimedia and sponsorship rights for nearly 130 collegiate institutions, conferences and arenas, and supports athletic departments at all competitive levels as title sponsor of the prestigious Learfield Directors’ Cup. Learfield also provides its collegiate partners access to professional concessions and ticket sales; branding, licensing and trademark consulting; digital and social platform expertise; campuswide business and sponsorship development; and venue and technology systems through its affiliated companies.

Learfield Careers

Joining Learfield presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a team that prides itself on innovation, leadership, and a dynamic company culture. Learfield is a leader in collegiate sports marketing, offering professionals a unique chance to be at the forefront of sports and entertainment industries.

Explore Job Opportunities

Learfield is actively seeking talented individuals who are eager to foster their skills and grow their careers in a vibrant, supportive environment. The company offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of professional interests and expertise.

Professional Growth and Development

At Learfield, career growth is a cornerstone of the employment experience. With comprehensive diversity training programs and leadership development opportunities, employees are equipped to advance their careers and expand their professional capabilities. Learfield is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member can thrive.

Internship Programs

Learfield’s internship programs provide invaluable industry experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to work on real projects that impact the company and its clients. Internships are designed to develop the foundational skills needed to succeed in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry.

Benefits and Company Culture

Learfield places a high priority on the well-being and satisfaction of its team members, offering competitive benefits and a culture that promotes work-life balance. The company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its workplace initiatives and the supportive network it creates.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Learfield is designed to be transparent and engaging, starting from the initial application to the final interview. Candidates are encouraged to showcase their skills and experiences through their resume and during interviews, where they meet with current team members and learn more about the position and the company’s values.

Join the Team

Learfield is looking for passionate, curious, and innovative individuals to join its team. Explore open positions that match your skills and interests on the Learfield Careers page. Discover how your expertise can contribute to the company’s ongoing success and leadership in the collegiate sports marketing industry.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, career tips, and industry insights through Learfield’s Careers Blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails tailored to your career preferences and be the first to know about new opportunities and company developments.

Networking and Innovation

At Learfield, networking and innovation go hand in hand, creating a stimulating environment that encourages professional growth and creative problem-solving. Team members are encouraged to collaborate and share ideas, driving the company forward in its mission to lead and transform the collegiate sports marketing landscape.

Career Advancement

With Learfield, the path to career advancement is clear and attainable. Through continuous learning, mentorship, and practical experience, team members are well-positioned to navigate their professional journeys and achieve their career goals.

Explore Learfield Jobs

Search for opportunities that align with your career aspirations. Learfield is hiring now—be part of a team that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse range of skills and backgrounds.
Learn more about Learfield
Size
1,001 employees
Industry

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Learfield

More Education, Government & Non-Profit Jobs

Find similar Senior Business Development Manager - University of Georgia jobs: