Revenue Generation: Drive new business growth by identifying and securing multi-service creative and marketing contracts within the Sports sector.
Strategic Prospecting: Build and maintain a robust pipeline of Tier-1 clients, focusing on marketing and digital / social directors within major sports leagues (e.g., NFL, NBA, MLB, MLS), international federations, athletes and sports-centric streaming platforms.
Solution Selling: Articulate the full suite of "Engage" services—including Creative Production (hype reels, broadcast graphics, digital content), Social & Influencer Marketing, PR & Outreach, and Strategy & Insight.
Pitch Leadership: Lead the end-to-end sales process, from initial outreach and chemistry meetings to complex RFP responses and final contract negotiations.
Integrated Collaboration: Work closely with our internal network of specialized service providers to craft bespoke, integrated solutions for global sports brands and organizations.
Market Intelligence: Stay ahead of industry trends in digital sports marketing, fan monetization, and athlete-led content to position Keywords as an innovative, essential partner.
CRM Management: Maintain meticulous records of sales activity and forecasting within Salesforce to ensure transparency across the global BD team.

Experience: 5+ years of proven success in business development or senior account management within the Sports, Esports, or Sports-focused Creative Agency sectors.
Industry Network: A strong existing portfolio of contacts within North American sports leagues, teams, athletes and sports-media marketing departments.
Service Expertise: Deep understanding of the sports creative production lifecycle, fan-base social ecosystems, and the athlete-influencer landscape.
Social Media: Strong understanding of social media and influencer marketing, ROI and metrics is required.
Communication: Exceptional presentation and storytelling skills; ability to "sell the dream" while remaining grounded in technical feasibility.
Commercial Acumen: Strong negotiation skills with a track record of meeting or exceeding multi-million dollar annual sales targets.
Autonomy: A self-starter capable of operating effectively in a remote/hybrid environment across North American time zones.
Availability: Willingness to travel frequently for client meetings, major sporting events, and internal site visits.

The salary range for this position is $100,000+ with bonus opportunity depending on experience.
Keywords Studios is dedicated to following a well-established Equal Opportunities Policy.
We endeavor to create a workplace, which provides for equal opportunities for all employees and potential employees.

Business Development Manager – Sports Marketing

Key skills