Commercial Partnership Manager

Job Title: Partnership Sales Manager

Location: London (on-site)

Reports to: Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

Forsyth Barnes are delighted to have partnered with an EFL club who are looking for a Partnership Sales Manager. This is your chance to join an ambitious EFL club in a pivotal Partnership Sales role, reporting directly to the Chief Commercial Officer.

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in driving the club's commercial growth by securing high-value partnerships that enhance both brand and revenue. You'll have the autonomy to develop and execute innovative sales strategies, leveraging the club's passionate fanbase, digital platforms, and matchday assets to deliver impactful sponsorships.

If you're a results-driven sales professional with a passion for football and a talent for building long-term commercial relationships, this is your chance to make a real impact at an exciting time for the club.

Key Responsibilities Commercial & Hospitality Strategy

1. Develop and implement a robust commercial and hospitality strategy to maximise revenue opportunities.
2. Identify and execute new commercial initiatives, ensuring alignment with the club's long-term objectives.
3. Continuously evaluate and improve existing products and services, benchmarking against industry standards.

Partnerships & Sales Growth

1. Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline through category research, networking, and proactive outreach.
2. Lead on identifying, negotiating, and securing new partnerships to drive commercial success.
3. Support the Partnerships team in deal renewals and contract negotiations.
4. Develop compelling proposals and presentations for potential partners, in collaboration with the CCO.
5. Oversee the planning, organisation, and delivery of partner-related events and activations.

Account & Relationship Management

1. Serve as the primary account manager for key partners, ensuring rights delivery and maximising partnership value.
2. Oversee the onboarding of new partners, ensuring a seamless integration into the club's ecosystem.
3. Work cross-functionally with internal teams to deliver added value for partners and hospitality clients.
4. Ensure brand management and intellectual property (IP) protection across all commercial partnerships.

Financial & Performance Management

1. Take full budgetary responsibility for advertising, sales, and hospitality revenue streams.
2. Monitor and track key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring commercial targets are met or exceeded.
3. Provide regular reporting on partnership and hospitality performance, identifying areas for growth.

What We're Looking For

1. 2+ years of experience in partnership sales and commercial leadership.
2. A strong track record of meeting and exceeding sales targets and KPIs.
3. Proven ability to identify, secure, and manage high-value partnerships.
4. Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills.
5. Highly motivated and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
6. Strong commercial awareness and strategic thinking.

For more information reach out to James Gershfield -