Director, Corporate Partnership Sales

Role Overview

The Director of Corporate Partnerships will shape, grow, and lead the partnership strategy for the San Diego Seals. This leadership position is responsible for creating revenue-driving alliances, expanding market reach, managing negotiations, and building durable relationships with key stakeholders. The role works closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to deliver partnership programs successfully.

Key Responsibilities

• Design inventive 360-degree marketing ideas and partnership proposals for the San Diego Seals.
• Own the full partnership sales cycle, from lead sourcing and pipeline development through opportunity evaluation, valuation, negotiation, legal review, and contract completion.
• Expand the client roster and bring forward creative approaches to generate new leads.
• Keep CRM records current with accurate reporting and prospecting updates.
• Support the identification and development of partnership assets, and help create sales collateral.
• Align and execute sponsorship sales objectives.
• Take responsibility for achieving individual, team, and inventory budget targets each year.
• Attend networking and promotional events to build and sustain relationships with prospective clients and professional organizations.
• Handle additional projects and tasks as assigned.
• Build and implement partnership plans that support overall business goals.
• Secure new partnership opportunities by negotiating agreements and closing deals.
• Strengthen long-term relationships with important partners.
• Work with internal stakeholders to bring new partnerships into the organization smoothly.
• Track partnership results and refine strategies to improve outcomes.

Requirements

• Experience in the sports sector or arena industry is preferred.
• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• At least 3 years of experience in partnerships is preferred.
• A demonstrated track record of meeting goals and budget targets.
• Understanding of sponsorship measurement tools and related processes.
• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite and preference for HubSpot or another CRM platform.
• Availability to attend all San Diego Seals home games at Pechanga Arena, along with other required events.
• Willingness to work outside standard business hours when business needs require it.
• Excellent attention to detail, along with solid conflict resolution, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Dependable team player who acts in the best interest of the department and the company.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive working relationships.
• Good self-management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively against defined goals.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, onsite position based in San Diego, California. The role may require work beyond normal business hours and attendance at games and events as part of the job.