Partnership Manager, Talent
About Topnotch Management
Topnotch Management is a leading talent agency specializing in representing elite athletes in tennis and pickleball. We are dedicated to maximizing our clients' potential through strategic partnerships, brand endorsements, and career development. Our team is passionate about sports, innovation, and building lasting relationships that drive success both on and off the court.
Job Summary
We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Partnership Manager, Talent to lead partnership sales initiatives for our roster of tennis and pickleball athletes. This role is pivotal in identifying, negotiating, and securing sponsorships, endorsements, and collaborative opportunities that align with our athletes' brands and values. The ideal candidate will have a strong network in the sports industry, exceptional sales skills, and a passion for tennis and pickleball.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute strategic partnership sales plans tailored to individual athletes in tennis and pickleball, focusing on brand endorsements, sponsorships, and marketing collaborations.
- Identify and prospect potential partners, including brands, corporations, and media outlets, through research, networking, and outreach.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including athletes, sponsors, and industry influencers.
- Negotiate and close deals that maximize revenue and exposure for our talent while ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.
- Collaborate with internal teams to create compelling pitch materials, proposals, and activation strategies.
- Track partnership performance metrics, provide regular reporting, and optimize strategies based on data insights.
- Stay abreast of industry trends in tennis, pickleball, and sports marketing to identify emerging opportunities.
- Attend industry events, tournaments, and networking functions to represent Topnotch Management and scout new partnerships.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or a related field
- 3+ years of experience in partnership sales, sponsorship management, or business development
- Proven track record of closing high-value deals and generating revenue through partnerships.
- Strong understanding of the tennis and pickleball ecosystems, including player branding, sponsorship trends, and market dynamics.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
- Proficiency in CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce), Microsoft Office Suite, and data analytics platforms.
- Passion for sports and a network of contacts in the athletic, branding, or entertainment sectors is a plus.
- Willingness to travel as needed for events and meetings.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and commission structure based on performance.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, 401K and paid time off.
- Opportunities for professional growth in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Access to exclusive sports events and networking opportunities.
- A collaborative team culture focused on excellence and athlete success.