Director, Business Development - University of Arkansas

Learfield is seeking a strategic and results-driven sales leader to join our growing sponsorship team. In this role, you will oversee the sales strategy and performance of the property, manage a team of sellers, and drive revenue growth through new business and renewals. You will lead the development of integrated sponsorship solutions, foster alignment with university stakeholders, and play a critical role in shaping the property's presence in the local and national marketplace.

• Lead a team of sellers responsible for achieving individual and team revenue goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, clients, and internal stakeholders, serving as a trusted and respected representative of both Learfield and the university.
• Drive new business and strategic renewals by developing creative, integrated sponsorship opportunities across digital, social, in‑venue, broadcast, and experiential platforms.
• Set annual revenue targets, track progress, and manage performance across a diverse team.
• Develop and deliver high‑quality proposals and presentations to local, regional, and national brands.
• Partner with property leadership to create and manage inventory strategy and pricing.
• Recruit, coach, and develop sales talent to elevate performance and support long‑term team growth.
• Identify emerging trends in sports marketing and bring forward new ideas to maximize impact.
• Represent the property in high‑visibility meetings, hospitality events, and game‑day activations (including nights and weekends as needed).
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation across the team.

• 10+ years of successful sales experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated success driving revenue growth and managing high‑performing sales teams.
• Ability to craft integrated marketing strategies that align with client and university objectives.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, with experience influencing executive‑level decision makers.
• Proven track record of setting and achieving sales targets in a competitive, performance‑driven environment.
• Excellent communication, organization, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed to support athletic events or client activations.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university.
• Experience selling comprehensive sports marketing partnerships, including major media (signage, radio, social, digital, etc.).
• Familiarity with collegiate athletics and working with university stakeholders.
• Knowledge of digital marketing trends and performance analytics.

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Health Savings Account.
• Life Insurance and other insurance plans.
• Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually).
• Parental Leave.
• 20 Paid Holidays.
• 401(k) with match.
• Short‑Term and 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.