Sponsorship & Sales Graduate Assistant

This position is primarily responsible for the assistance in driving significant revenue growth through the strategic sale of premium sponsorship inventory and hospitality offerings for Mercer Athletics.

This position will help to Identify, prospect, cultivate, pitch, negotiate, and secure corporate sponsorships, advertising opportunities, corporate ticket packages, and other business-to-business revenue opportunities to support the long-term financial success of Mercer Athletics. This role will serve as a key contributor to premium revenue strategy and collaborate across advancement, ticket operations and external partners.

This position will also assist the Associate AD for External Relations and Revenue Generation in:

1) Identifying, prospecting, cultivating, pitching, negotiating, and securing corporate sponsorships, advertising opportunities, corporate ticket packages, and other business-to-business revenue opportunities

2) Providing oversight of the full sales life cycle from lead generation through contract execution, including presentations, venue tours and personalized proposals.

3) Cultivating relationships with high-capacity donors, alumni, corporate partners, and community leaders.

4) Collaborating with internal stakeholders to inform pricing strategies, inventory utilization, and product positioning.

5) Maintaining detailed and accurate records of prospect activity and sales performance.

6) Assisting with premium hospitality and game day engagement efforts to strengthen client relationships.

7) Supporting fundraising events, home athletic events, and other external engagement revenue-generating initiatives.

8) Performing other duties as assigned in support of SEMO Athletics and University Advancement priorities REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

At least one year of experience in sales, business development, sports marketing, athletics external operations, fundraising, or another relationship-based sales or business development field

Knowledge of intercollegiate athletics and the business of sports marketing and sponsorships

Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including proposal development, presentations, correspondence, and reporting

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, initiative, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Ability to work collaboratively with a variety of audiences, including Athletics and University leadership, coaches, staff, donors, alumni, volunteers, business partners, and campus colleagues

Commitment to NCAA rules compliance, University policies, confidentiality, and ethical standards