Director, Commercial Growth - MLS NEXT & MLS GO

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Job description

Overview:
MLS is committed to driving forward the future of soccer in North America by delivering best-in-class youth programming. Specifically, the league has two primary youth programs, MLS GO, the League's recreational program built to drive participation and access to the sport, and MLS NEXT, the most elite player development experience for youth players as they reach their highest potential.

The Director, Commercial Growth will play a crucial role in this mission by driving the commercial success of these programs. This role is responsible for the execution and implementation of various commercial projects, managing content and social communication, and overseeing brand and creative delivery. The role will work closely with the internal MLS Brand, Partnerships, Content, Comms, and Events teams to ensure an elevated and impactful brand presentation for MLS NEXT & MLS GO that helps to scale the impact of the MLS youth programs.

The role also includes supporting new strategic growth projects, relationships with enterprise-wide commercial partners (alongside the MLS Partnerships team), management of go-to-market plans, and creation of presentations. With a focus on maintaining and elevating the commercial opportunity of our programs, this role is pivotal in contributing to the overall growth and success of soccer North America.

Responsibilities:
Act as the central contact within the MLS NEXT & MLS GO team for all commercial operations, ensuring successful planning and execution of commercially related projects.

Lead the development of internal and external MLS NEXT & MLS GO presentations, including the comprehensive Platform Overview, Event Pre-Cap and Recap, Executive Summaries, and Marketing Plans (in partnership with key internal partners).

Lead the development and execution of new revenue generating initiatives designed to improve the player development experience and MLS NEXT & GO program quality.Work with MLS Finance and Strategy on the P&L development of new initiatives.

Act as the central contact with Business Development and Partnerships teams to support and enhance sponsorship opportunities:Assist in developing the story, narrative, and packages for the go-to-market plan.

Support the evaluation of potential new partners and explore renewal opportunities with internal Partnerships team.

Collaborate with the Partner Solutions team to develop new revenue opportunities, including asset development and packages for sale.

Serve as the liaison to MLS Partnership Marketing to enhance MLS NEXT partner implementation:Ensure delivery on all partner assets and activations, exceeding expectations for our enterprise-wide partnership with adidas.

Work closely with Partnership Marketing and Events teams on partner programs and events.

Act as the Partner Media Management liaison to guarantee delivery of required partner content.

Oversee MLS NEXT and MLS GO content, social communication, and project management:Serve as the primary liaison for daily interaction between MLS Social and external social agency.

Oversee content campaigns and calendar, weekly calls, and event planning.

Oversee brand and creative delivery process within the MLS NEXT & MLS GO team:Collaborate with the internal MLS Brand and Events teams on the creative direction, signage, and presentation across the MLS player pathway.

Drive the narrative of our brand by managing and delivering storytelling and messaging across the internal team in partnership with MLS Brand.

Coordinate with MLS Content, Comms, Clubs, and Events to ensure seamless implementation of initiatives.

Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree required

8+ years of experience in related commercial and marketing roles

Required Skills

High-level of commitment to a quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity, and compliance.

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team environment, with a focus on fostering positive team dynamics.

Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills, with an ability to navigate complex situations.

Meticulous attention to detail, with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.

Elevated PowerPoint skills and proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Skill in managing and implementing commercial projects and brand delivery.

Proven ability to drive narrative and storytelling across various stakeholder teams.

Competency in partnership management, including the delivery of partner assets and activations.

Understanding of go-to-market strategies and revenue generation, with a focus on developing new opportunities.

Aptitude for developing and driving marketing plans and presentations.

Ability to provide commercial support for initiatives, including ancillary revenue generation, content development, and event planning.

Desired Skills

Knowledge of the sport of soccer and youth soccer landscape

Knowledge of the Spanish Language (business proficiency)

Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Total Rewards

Major League Soccer offers a competitive starting base salary of $115,000 - $150,000, based on individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs. We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent. Our benefits package includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a $500 wellness reimbursement, generous PTO, and a hybrid office/remote work schedule to promote work-life balance. We also prioritize career and professional development, offering on-the-job training, feedback, and ongoing educational opportunities.

At Major League Soccer, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to compete in the marketplace. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are dedicated to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation throughout the job application or interview process, essential job functions, and other benefits and privileges of employment. If you require accommodation, please contact us to request it.

Join our team and be part of the Major League Soccer family, where we elevate the game and inspire greatness!

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