Partnership Sales Manager

Description:

Saracens Rugby Club is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Partnership Sales Manager to drive commercial growth by acquiring new Club partners and expanding the partnership portfolio. This is a unique opportunity to join a values-led, elite sports organization known for excellence on and off the pitch. Based at the iconic StoneX Stadium, this role involves proactive outreach to prospective brands, crafting compelling partnership propositions, and leading the full sales cycle from initiation to conversion.

Working within a high-performing commercial team, you’ll play a vital role in engaging brands aligned with the Club’s purpose and strategic ambitions. You will contribute to Saracens' broader impact, including its award-winning work through the Saracens Foundation and Multi Academy Trust, helping to enrich lives through sport and community outreach.

Key Responsibilities:

Partnership Sales:

• Execute Saracens' partner acquisition strategy with the Partnerships Director and broader team.

• Lead outreach to target categories and qualified brands, from first contact to successful partnership closure.

• Build, manage, and convert sales pipelines while maintaining strong agency and brand relationships.

• Collaborate with internal teams to create tailored, high-value commercial packages.

• Pitch partnership opportunities confidently and professionally to decision-makers.

• Support development of sales materials and presentations to align with club values and commercial objectives.

Delivery:

• Maintain and report on lead progress, category strategies, and partnership conversion outcomes.

• Work with legal and finance to finalize partnership contracts in accordance with Club policies.

• Ensure all sales activity aligns with strategic priorities and contributes to revenue growth.

Benchmarking & Insights:

• Conduct market research and due diligence on prospective partners.

• Deliver weekly insight reports, track industry trends, and benchmark sponsorship deals across sports.

Stakeholder Management:

• Develop lasting relationships across key internal and external stakeholders.

• Support the creation of experiences that enhance partner engagement and drive renewals.

• Highlight ROI and partnership value to ensure long-term collaboration.

Candidate Profile:

Essential Experience & Skills:

• 3+ years in sponsorship/partnership sales within the sports industry.

• Experience in building B2B partnerships and achieving commercial targets.

• Confident communicator with strong written, verbal, and presentation skills.

• Experience with budget management, CRM systems, and working with senior-level stakeholders.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Degree in a relevant field or ESA Diploma (or equivalent industry certification).

• Previous experience with sports rights holders, agencies, or within brand-side sponsorship.

Personal Characteristics:

• Self-starter with a collaborative spirit and low ego.

• Commercially focused, proactive, and confident in fast-paced environments.

• Ethical, energetic, and strategic, with strong interpersonal skills.

• Culturally inclusive with a commitment to team success and impact-driven work.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary + commission for new business and renewals.

• Flexible working hours (in-office days: Monday & Thursday).

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

• Paid sick leave for physical and mental health.

• Complimentary tickets to Saracens home games for family.

• Career development and proactive salary reviews tied to responsibility growth.