Account Executive, Group Sales
Reports to: VP of Sales
About The Organization
The Kalamazoo Growlers are a summer collegiate baseball team in the Northwoods League. The Growlers are two-time Northwoods League Champions (2022, 2024) and four-time Northwoods League Organization of the Year recipients (2016, 2020, 2022, 2024). The team consistently finishes in the top 5 in attendance in the league each year and has been ranked the #2 ballpark in the country. Known for outrageous promotions like "Coach Drake" (a 6-year-old manager) and 2014's Ballpark Digest Promotion of the Year "Salute to Selfie Night," the Growlers play at Honor Credit Union Stadium, a 3,500-seat ballpark just outside downtown Kalamazoo.
Who We're Looking For
We’re seeking an energetic and passionate Account Executive, Group Sales to be the heart of our Community Sales team. This role is perfect for someone who loves making connections, enjoys being the friendly voice on the phone, and wants to create unforgettable experiences for community groups. If you thrive on building relationships and making someone’s day, this is the role for you.
Responsibilities
- Be the expert on group ticket packages, helping civic groups like churches, schools, little leagues, and non-profits organize unforgettable events at the ballpark with exclusive perks.
- Bring theme nights to life by engaging groups to participate in events like Scout Nights and Bark in the Park.
- Craft tailored packages and experiences for groups, selling not just tickets but a full ballpark experience.
- Spend your day connecting with people, building relationships, and helping them plan the perfect outing.
- Be a key presence on game nights, ensuring clients have a fantastic experience and everything runs smoothly.
- Play a crucial role in hitting sales targets and filling the ballpark with community energy.
- Produce 60-70 phone calls per day, develop new sales leads, and actively prospect and canvass daily. Maintain call logs on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
Requirements
- Positive attitude and an amazing phone presence—able to make anyone smile through the phone.
- Passion for connecting with the community and working with schools, churches, and youth sports.
- Strong organizational skills to juggle multiple conversations and group plans simultaneously.
- Creative problem-solving ability to help group leaders plan hassle-free events.
- Self-starter with a competitive drive who thrives as part of a team.
- True "people person" who can build rapport with anyone and isn’t afraid to strike up a conversation.
- Understanding that working in sports isn’t a typical 9-to-5, with excitement for the energy of game days.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sport Management, Marketing, or a related field.
- Prior experience in the sports industry is preferred.
- Prior telemarketing and/or sales experience is preferred.
- Strong presentation skills (written and verbal).
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrates strong negotiating and closing skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Willingness and ability to work long hours, including holidays and weekends as required.
Why You'll Love It Here
You get to be a memory maker! See groups of kids and families you brought to the park having the time of their lives. You’ll be part of a fun, fast-paced team where your work directly contributes to the laughter and cheers heard from the stands every game night.
Pay
Competitive salary with an aggressive commission structure.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision benefits.
- 401(k) matching program.
- Unlimited PTO Policy* (time off requests must be approved in advance by management).
- Free gym membership.
- Monthly social and group outings with front office staff.