McBride Sport is proud to be partnering with Hampshire Cricket, Southern Brave, and the Utilita Bowl to find a commercially sharp, relationship-driven Head of Partnership Sales to lead a key area of growth. This is a rare opportunity to join one of the UK’s most exciting sporting and entertainment destinations – home to international cricket, The Hundred, domestic competitions, year-round events, and community programmes that leave a legacy across the county.
As Head of Partnership Sales, you’ll lead the strategy and execution of commercial partnerships across the venue and teams – from elite cricket to grassroots programmes. You’ll drive significant revenue growth through innovative, high-value sponsorships that deliver for both the brand and its partners. With a packed calendar of international matches, Southern Brave fixtures, concerts, and corporate events, the stage is set for a driven commercial leader to deliver game-changing deals with leading national and global brands.
Key responsibilities include:
* Own and lead the end-to-end sponsorship sales strategy – from prospecting to closing.
* Deliver six- and seven-figure partnerships that align with brand and partner objectives.
* Develop bespoke partnership propositions across professional and community cricket, live events, and the wider venue.
* Build and maintain strong senior relationships with brands across key sectors.
* Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to ensure seamless partnership activation and delivery.
* Represent the organisation at industry events, networking forums, and client meetings.
* Monitor commercial performance, pipeline, and forecasts to meet revenue targets.
To delivery against this exciting challenge, we are looking for someone who can demonstrate:
* 5+ years in sponsorship sales, business development, or commercial partnerships in sport, media, or live events.
* A strong track record of closing high-value sponsorships with major brands.
* Expert negotiator and persuasive presenter – confident at C-suite level.
* A natural relationship-builder, with a consultative, insight-led approach.
* Highly commercial, strategic thinker with strong organisational skills.
* Willingness to work evenings/weekends for matchdays and major events.
* Experience within cricket or live entertainment environments.
* Understanding of partnership activation and delivery.
* Familiarity with CRM and sales reporting tools.
* A passion for sport and creating impact through brand partnerships.
This role is full-time, based at Utilita Bowl, Southampton. If you are ready to Lead the Next Big Partnership Play, this is a high-profile, high-impact role that sits at the heart of an ambitious, growing organisation.