Manager, Global Partnerships (Business Development)

Company Overview

The Canadian Football League (CFL) is Canada's premier professional football organization, boasting over 100 years of history with nine teams nationwide. The CFL offers thrilling entertainment and an engaged fan base, culminating annually with the Grey Cup—the nation's largest single-day sporting event.

Committed to innovating both its sport and business sides, the CFL enhances fan engagement through digital transformation, personalized marketing, data analytics, and compelling content. The league also prides itself on promoting core Canadian values such as unity, diversity, inclusion, and community service, fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for all.

Position Summary

The role of Manager, Global Partnerships, focuses on developing and sustaining brand relationships to drive business growth. This person acts as an innovative problem-solver, emphasizing opportunity and collaboration in negotiating partnerships with various stakeholders. Key responsibilities involve identifying and engaging brand and agency contacts to cultivate a continuous pipeline of national partnership prospects.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive proactive prospecting and qualification to expand and maintain a strong partner roster.
• Consistently present CFL Ventures’ initiatives and products to clients.
• Develop and negotiate partnership contracts that leverage CFL Media and Ventures assets.
• Support budget forecasting and financial analysis alongside the Associate Vice President.
• Understand client objectives to craft partnership marketing solutions surpassing expectations.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Content, and Global Partnerships teams to create tailored sales proposals.
• Monitor and assess current and projected revenue streams.
• Build strategic connections with clients and agencies to unlock revenue growth and reinforce market credibility.
• Analyze and communicate industry and client market trends effectively.

Candidate Qualifications & Skills

• Self-driven and highly motivated to succeed.
• A proactive "hunter" approach managing the full sales cycle from lead generation to deal closure and campaign delivery.
• Strong media and sponsorship marketing knowledge focusing on corporate partnership sales and digital/experiential activations.
• Familiarity with intellectual property rights, digital platforms, and multi-channel brand activations including event, retail, and multimedia.
• Understanding of key marketing areas such as TV, radio, print, digital, mobile media, brand strategy, positioning, and marketing analytics.
• Capable of juggling multiple priorities within a dynamic work environment.
• Creative thinker and strategic salesperson with excellent interpersonal abilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, both written and oral.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, commerce, marketing, or related fields, or equivalent experience.
• At least three years of experience in marketing, sponsorship, or business development.
• Prior relationships and expertise within the Canadian sports and media agency sectors are advantageous.

Compensation

The anticipated salary range for this role is between 70000 and 80000 CAD per year, including base salary plus potential bonuses and variable incentives. Actual pay will depend on candidate qualifications, skills, budget considerations, and location.

Additional Details

• Work Model: Hybrid, requiring regular in-office presence based on CFL’s Hybrid Work Policy and attendance at business meetings and events.
• Working Hours: Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as the job demands.
• Travel: Required as necessary for business purposes.

Equal Opportunity

The CFL is an equal opportunity employer committed to enhancing diversity and creating an inclusive workplace. Applications from underrepresented groups including women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ individuals are encouraged.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The CFL may employ artificial intelligence tools to support applicant screening and assessment.