Senior Business Development Manager - James Madison University
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.Key Responsibilities Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals through new business and strategic renewals 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 Own the full sales cycle: prospecting, relationship management, pitch development, contract negotiation, and post-sale execution Lead strategic renewal planning in collaboration with sales leadership Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate partners, university stakeholders, and cross-functional teams Partner with internal teams on campaign execution, ensuring alignment with client expectations and contract terms Serve as a mentor to junior sellers and assist local leadership in advancing team-wide performance Represent the property at high-visibility meetings, hospitality events, and game day activations (including some nights and weekends) Stay informed on industry trends and best practices, brand activations, digital marketing tools, and emerging sponsorship platforms Perform other related duties as required Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, and internal stakeholders—serving as a trusted and respected representative of both Learfield and the university. Minimum Qualifications 6+ years of experience in conceptual or consultative sales 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. Learfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.