Business Development Manager - University of Illinois

We’re seeking a motivated and relationship-driven sales professional to join our growing sponsorship team. If you thrive in a collaborative environment and are excited to contribute to revenue growth through both renewals and new business, this could be the next step in your career. In this role, you’ll manage existing client relationships and drive growth by actively building a new business pipeline. You’ll be responsible for the execution of partner agreements, from prospecting through renewal, and will collaborate with both internal teams and university stakeholders to deliver impactful campaigns that align with partner goals. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals by developing and selling integrated sponsorship packagesManage a defined book of business, including full sales cycle ownership for renewals and new business dealsBuild, present, and negotiate proposals across digital, social, broadcast, in-venue, and experiential platformsDevelop relationships with local, regional, and national partners to highlight the value of collegiate sponsorshipsBuild and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, corporate sponsors and internal stakeholders—serving as a trusted and respected representative of both LEARFIELD and the university.Collaborate with internal teams to execute partner deliverables in alignment with contract terms and brand standardsMaintain accurate records of sales activity and pipeline progress in CRM systemsSupport the development of year-end recaps and participate in renewal planning discussionsAttend and contribute to game day operations and client hospitality events, including occasional nights and weekendsStay informed on industry trends and best practices, brand activations, digital marketing tools, and emerging sponsorship platformsPerform other related duties as required Minimum Qualifications 4+ years of sales experience with a focus on building and maintaining client relationshipsDemonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet/exceed sales goalsStrong communication and presentation skills with a customer-first approachComfort navigating CRM systems and working within a performance-driven sales environmentAbility to work evenings and weekends as needed for game days and events Preferred Qualifications Experience in sports sponsorship or media sales (radio, signage, social, digital, etc.)Familiarity with marketing solutions that include digital and experiential assets Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university Pay Transparency The approximate national base pay range for this position is $60,000 to $75,000. Please note that this is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Individuals may also be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus and/or sales compensation based on individual and company performance. Placement on the range may vary based on factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and geographic location. The pay rate will comply with all minimum federal, state, and local wage/salary requirements. 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.