University Sponsorships Growth Manager

Learfield; Urbandale (IA); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Learfield is seeking a highly motivated Business Development Manager in Urbandale, IA to drive sponsorship sales and deepen university partnerships. You will own renewals and new business, execute partner deliverables, and collaborate with university stakeholders to create powerful campaigns across digital, broadcast, and experiential platforms.

You will manage a defined book of business, build compelling proposals, and maintain CRM records while attending game days and events as needed.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of sales experience with a focus on building and maintaining client relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet/exceed sales goals.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with a customer-first approach.
• Comfort navigating CRM systems and working within a performance-driven sales environment.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for game days and events.

Responsibilities

• Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals by developing and selling integrated sponsorship packages.
• Manage a defined book of business, including full sales cycle ownership for renewals and new business deals.
• Build, present, and negotiate proposals across digital, social, broadcast, in-venue, and experiential platforms.
• Develop relationships with local, regional, and national partners to highlight the value of collegiate sponsorships.
• Build 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 standards.
• Maintain accurate records of sales activity and pipeline progress in CRM systems.
• Support the development of year-end recaps and participate in renewal planning discussions.
• Attend and contribute to game day operations and client hospitality events, including occasional nights and weekends.
• Stay informed on industry trends and best practices, brand activations, digital marketing tools, and emerging sponsorship platforms.

Skills

Sales

Relationship management

CRM proficiency

Communication

Negotiation

Presentation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CRM platforms

Job description

Learfield is seeking a highly motivated Business Development Manager in Urbandale, IA to drive sponsorship sales and deepen university partnerships. You will own renewals and new business, execute partner deliverables, and collaborate with university stakeholders to create powerful campaigns across digital, broadcast, and experiential platforms.

You will manage a defined book of business, build compelling proposals, and maintain CRM records while attending game days and events as needed.