NIL Business Development Manager - University of Memphis

Tigers Sports Properties is seeking a results-driven NIL Business Development Manager to lead the execution and growth of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) sponsorship opportunities for Memphis Athletics. In this role, you will lead the charge in identifying, pitching, and closing NIL sponsorships that connect student-athletes with brand partners. In this role, you'll be responsible for generating new NIL revenue, developing innovative campaign proposals, and ensuring high-quality delivery of sponsorship activations. You will serve as a primary point of contact for both brand partners and student-athletes, while coordinating across internal teams to meet partner expectations and compliance standards. This position works closely with the broader property team, brand partners, athletics staff, student-athletes, and key Learfield stakeholders to drive results and ensure campaign success. Responsibilities Drive new NIL business by proactively identifying, prospecting, and pitching student-athlete sponsorship opportunities to local and regional brands Develop creative NIL campaign proposals that align with brand goals and student-athlete strengths Own the complete sales cycle: lead generation, pitch development, negotiations, and closing Ensure flawless execution of NIL campaigns by coordinating with internal stakeholders (Partnerships, Athletics, Legal/Compliance, Activation) Manage and grow a personal book of NIL business including new accounts and upsells opportunities Track and report NIL sales activity, pipeline updates, closed revenue, and forecasts Maintain strong, trusted relationships with brand decision-makers and key stakeholders Stay informed on NIL trends, evolving legislation, and competitive market activity to inform strategy and outreach Meet or exceed defined NIL sales targets and key performance indicators Minimum Qualifications: Minimum 4 years of experience in business development, sponsorship sales, or college athletics Proven ability to build a pipeline and close deals with partners and decision-makers Strong relationship-building, communication, and organizational skills Ability to manage multiple projects independently and collaborate cross-functionally Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel); CRM experience preferred Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university Experience in NIL, sports sponsorships, or athlete/influencer partnerships Familiarity with NIL regulations and compliance best practices High level of initiative, ownership mindset, and commitment to process improvement Passion for student-athlete success and brand storytelling in a dynamic environment Learfield offers a full spectrum of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Heath Savings Account, Life Insurance and Other Insurance Plans, Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave, 20 Paid Holidays, 401(k), and Short/Long Term Disability. Leave benefits are consistent with state and local laws, including the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act. Learfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability. Learfield is the leading media and technology company powering college athletics. Through its digital and physical platforms, Learfield owns and leverages a deep data set and relationships in the industry to drive revenue, growth, brand awareness, and fan engagement for brands, sports, and entertainment properties. With ties to over 1,200 collegiate institutions and over 12,000 local and national brand partners, Learfield's presence in college sports and live events delivers influence and maximizes reach to target audiences. With data-based solutions for a 365-day, 24/7 fan experience, Learfield enables schools and brands to connect with fans through licensed merchandise, game ticketing, donor identification for athletic programs, exclusive custom content, innovative marketing initiatives, NIL solutions, and advanced digital platforms. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield Directors' Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions. Our people-first culture is the foundation of our business and is reflective of our approach to building meaningful relationships with our employees, partners, and fans. The company strives each day to deliver the mission statement and embody the core values that make Learfield an exciting place to work. Our Mission Powering the connection of fans to the brands and experiences they love. Our Core Values Build Trust | Be Fans of One Another | Power Tomorrow | Create & Connect Communities | Have Fun