Executive Vice President, Sports Properties

The Executive Vice President (EVP) of Sports Properties will play a critical role in managing and overseeing a portfolio of properties. Reporting directly to the President of Sports Properties and serving as a key member of the Sports Properties leadership team, the EVP will be responsible for building and maintaining executive relationships with key stakeholders, including Athletic Directors, senior leadership at respective accounts, and important corporate clients, while driving overall business & revenue growth and operational excellence. This position will also be the consultative partner to these properties, driving revenue and initiatives such as Name Image and Likeness (NIL), premium assets, digital, data, and content platforms. The EVP will provide executive leadership for the on-campus teams at these properties, leading a team of SVPs and VPs that report directly to the EVP.

The location for this role is remote, with a strong preference for the ideal candidate to be based out of our Dallas or Atlanta corporate offices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide visionary and executive leadership for assigned properties . This includes setting strategic goals, coaching and developing teams, and driving accountability by ensuring alignment with overall company objectives.
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong executive-level relationships with Athletic Directors and other key stakeholders at each account, serving as the primary point of contact for major business discussions, contract negotiations, and problem-solving.
• Contract Management: Oversee contract management for all properties, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions while maximizing revenue and minimizing risk. Lead the renewal of contracts and negotiation of new agreements when necessary - extension of sponsorship packages, new asset development, and enhancement of property-level revenue streams.
• New Business Development: Identify and pursue new business opportunities in key areas such as NIL, corporate sponsorships, and other emerging revenue streams. Develop innovative solutions and approaches to enhance value for partners and the organization.
• Revenue Growth: Act as a consultative revenue partner, working closely with property teams and university partners to develop innovative and impactful revenue strategies. Monitor industry trends and emerging opportunities and develop strategies to meet or exceed revenue targets in key business areas.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders such as the corporate sales, legal, marketing, HR, and finance teams to ensure seamless execution of business operations and growth initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Sports Management, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 15+ years of executive-level experience in sales, business development, or a related field, with a strong background in sports, media rights, or similar industries.
• Proven track record in account management, contract negotiation, and business development within the sports industry.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience leading large, cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of the collegiate sports landscape, including trends related to multimedia rights, sponsorships, and NIL.
• Excellent relationship management skills with a focus on building long-term partnerships.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• This position will require frequent travel to various properties, conferences, and events.

Personal Attributes:

• Results-driven with a strong focus on growth and innovation.
• Ability to navigate complex relationships and influence key decision-makers.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and levels.
• Strategic thinker who can balance short-term needs with long-term objectives.

Pay Transparency:

The approximate base pay range for this position is $240,000 to $300,000 Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Individuals may also be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. Actual compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience as well as geographic location.

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 (including Parental Leave), Paid Holidays, 401(k), and Short/Long Term Disability.

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.