Sponsorship & Business Development Manager

Role Summary

The Sponsorship & Business Development Manager is responsible for driving the commercial growth of the Academy. They will be the "Growth Architect" of the academy responsible for building a powerful, recognizable brand identity that attracts both elite talent and commercial partners. The sponsorship and Business Development Manager role at HTT Academy blends strategic sales (securing high-value sponsorships) with operational business development (creating new revenue streams through clinics, scouting events, and partnerships). Through creative storytelling (marketing) and aggressive market penetration (business development) to grow the academy's footprint and revenue, the sponsorship and business manager will elevate the Academy's brand equity and ensure long-term financial scaling. The Business Development function of this role will collaborate with teams across the business to develop and leverage strong brand expressions that serve as business development levers.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sponsorship & Partnership Acquisition

2. Identify, pitch, and secure local and international corporate sponsors (kit sponsors, equipment partners, nutrition/medical partners).

3. Develop high-quality sponsorship decks and tailored proposals that align with corporate CSR or marketing goals.

4. Negotiate contract terms, ensuring maximum value for the academy while maintaining "win-win" partner relationships.

5. Business Development & Revenue Growth

6. Identify new revenue streams, such as paid holiday camps, international scouting tournaments, or facility rentals.

7. Establish "Affiliate Club" networks with international professional teams to create player pathway opportunities.

8. Oversee the commercialization of Academy assets (digital media rights, merchandise, and event branding).

9. Relationship & Account Management

10. Serve as the primary point of contact for all commercial partners, ensuring all contractual deliverables are met (e.g., logo placement, player appearances).

11. Organize networking events and "Sponsor Days" to build a community around the academy.

12. Strategic Marketing and Marketing

13. Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing strategy to position the academy as a "Top Tier" destination for Nigerian youth development.

14. Oversee the academy's visual identity across all platforms (web, social media, kits, and facility branding).
15. Lead content strategy (video/photo) that highlights player success stories and "behind-the-scenes" excellence
16. Work with the marketing team to enhance the academy's public profile, making it a more "sellable" product.

17. Monitor industry trends and competitor commercial strategies to keep the academy ahead of the curve.

18. Market Expansion and Lead Generation

19. Identify and enter new geographic markets for player recruitment (e.g., satellite centers or international trials).

20. Develop B2B partnerships with schools, community centers, and other sports organizations to create a "feeder" ecosystem.

21. Manage digital ad spend (Meta/Google Ads) to drive registrations for trials and paid camps.

22. Commercial Product Development

23. Design, launch and/or support the development of HTT Academy "Commercial Products" such as elite individual training packages, coaching clinics, or international tour experiences.

24. Optimize the "Customer Journey" from first touchpoint (social media) to conversion (registration/payment).

Candidate Profile (Requirements)

• Experience: 5–10 years in Sports Marketing, Business Development, or Sponsorship Sales (preferably in football or high-performance sports).
• Network: A pre-existing network of corporate contacts and brand managers.
• Skills: Exceptional negotiation, public speaking, and financial literacy (budgeting/forecasting).
• Education: Degree in Sports Management, Marketing, Business Administration, or related field.
• Certifications: CBAP or related is a plus