Marketing Manager

About the Role

Christchurch United FC is seeking a Marketing Manager to spearhead the branding and commercial expansion of two notable football clubs: South Island United, a professional team competing in the OFC Pro League, and Christchurch United, a historically successful New Zealand club. This is a foundational role where the chosen candidate will establish the entire marketing function from scratch, enjoying significant autonomy and responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute marketing strategies encompassing digital, social media, community engagement, and partner channels.
• Increase commercial income through managing sponsorship, merchandise sales, and event marketing.
• Create and implement content plans to raise the profile of both clubs locally and internationally.
• Oversee relationships with partners and sponsors, ensuring value delivery, communication, and reporting.
• Assist the OFC Pro League in meeting media and marketing compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with academy, events, and operations teams on joint campaigns.
• Maintain and cultivate connections with media partners, including NZME and broadcasters.
• Develop and update brand guidelines to ensure consistent club representation.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum three years’ marketing experience, preferably within sports, entertainment, or lifestyle sectors.
• Proficient with digital marketing, social content creation, and analytics interpretation.
• Strong commercial sense with experience managing sponsor or commercial partner relations.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written, adaptable across cultures.
• Self-motivated and capable of managing multiple priorities independently.
• Passionate about football and its commercial and community potential.
• Experience with professional sports clubs is advantageous but not required.

About the Clubs and Location

Both clubs operate under one roof at the United Sports Centre in Christchurch, alongside extensive youth programs and community initiatives. South Island United is the only professional club in New Zealand’s South Island competing at an international level, while Christchurch United boasts a rich history with numerous league and cup titles.

Christchurch, housing approximately 400,000 residents, offers an affordable lifestyle compared to larger cities in New Zealand. It provides access to exceptional outdoor activities, a lively international community, quality education, healthcare, and proximity to distinctive landscapes, making it a great place for work and life.

Application Instructions and Requirements

Applications are welcome worldwide. International candidates should inform the club about work authorization and relocation plans early during the process.

Applicants must submit three elements:

• A CV highlighting experience, qualifications, and key achievements.
• A concise cover letter explaining suitability and interest in the role and New Zealand football.
• A marketing plan for South Island United demonstrating strategic approach and creativity.

The marketing plan should be informed by thorough research and cover brand positioning, audience engagement, digital and social media strategy, commercial marketing, matchday experience, and initial priorities within the first 90 days. The recommended length is 6 to 12 pages in any common format, including relevant visuals or case studies.

Additional Information

• This is a unique opportunity to build a marketing function from the ground up within a professional sports environment.
• The role involves working closely with leadership, sponsors, media, and community stakeholders.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and early submission is encouraged.
• Shortlisted candidates will participate in a video interview with club executives.