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Sports Development Manager Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Crossroads YMCA

Sports Coach

Crown Point, IN

$12/hr

... development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the direction of the Sports ... Manage sports games in an organized and efficient manner to support safe play through appropriate ...

Purdue University

Sports Dietitian

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

... management & procurement, food service & menu development. Skills needed: * Excellent communication skills with both individuals and groups. * Ability to motivate constituents, including students ...

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All JobsSports Development Manager JobsSports Development Manager Jobs in Indiana

Sports Development Manager information

See Indiana salary details

$31.4K

$73.7K

$126.6K

How much do sports development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports development manager in Indiana is $73,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sports Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Development Manager, a strong background in sports management, program planning, and a relevant degree such as sports science or sports management is essential. Familiarity with sports development frameworks, funding applications, and event management software is typically required. Excellent leadership, communication, and partnership-building skills help drive community engagement and successful collaboration with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for growing sports participation, maximizing resources, and achieving organizational goals.

What is the difference between Sports Development Manager vs Sports Coach?

AspectSports Development ManagerSports Coach
Primary FocusDeveloping sports programs, strategic planning, community engagementTraining athletes, skill development, on-field coaching
Required CredentialsRelevant degree, certifications in sports management or developmentCoaching certifications, sports-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentOffices, community centers, sports organizationsSports fields, gyms, training facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSports clubs, local councils, national sports bodiesSchools, sports clubs, private teams

The Sports Development Manager focuses on creating and managing sports programs and initiatives, often working behind the scenes to promote sports at community or organizational levels. In contrast, a Sports Coach works directly with athletes to improve their skills and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and are integral to the sports industry, but they serve different functions within the sports ecosystem.

What are some common challenges faced by Sports Development Managers when implementing new community programs?

Sports Development Managers often encounter challenges such as limited budgets, varying levels of community engagement, and logistical issues when launching new programs. Building partnerships with local organizations and adapting to the diverse needs of participants can require creative problem-solving and strong communication skills. Additionally, measuring program impact and securing ongoing funding are frequent hurdles. Collaborating closely with coaches, volunteers, and local authorities is essential to overcome these obstacles and ensure successful program delivery.

What are Sports Development Managers?

Sports Development Managers are professionals who work to increase participation in sports and physical activities within communities, organizations, or educational institutions. They develop, implement, and manage programs aimed at promoting sports, improving access to facilities, and supporting athletes at all levels. Their responsibilities often include working with local authorities, sports clubs, and governing bodies to secure funding, organize events, and create pathways for talent development. These managers play a crucial role in fostering community engagement, healthy lifestyles, and sporting excellence.
What are popular job titles related to Sports Development Manager jobs in Indiana? For Sports Development Manager jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sports Development Manager jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Development Manager jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Sports Development Manager jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Sports Development Manager job openings:
Sports Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Development Manager job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,687 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Business Development Manager - Indiana University

Learfield Sports Properties

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

We're seeking a motivated and relationship-driven sales professional to join our growing sponsorship team. If you thrive in a collaborative environment and are excited to contribute to revenue growth through both renewals and new business, this could be the next step in your career.
In this role, you'll manage existing client relationships and drive growth by actively building a new business pipeline. You'll be responsible for the execution of partner agreements, from prospecting through renewal, and will collaborate with both internal teams and university stakeholders to deliver impactful campaigns that align with partner goals.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Meet and/or exceed assigned revenue goals by developing and selling integrated sponsorship packages
  • Manage a defined book of business, including full sales cycle ownership for renewals and new business deals
  • Build, present, and negotiate proposals across digital, social, broadcast, in-venue, and experiential platforms
  • Develop relationships with local, regional, and national partners to highlight the value of collegiate sponsorships
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, athletic department staff, corporate sponsors and internal stakeholders-serving as a trusted and respected representative of both Learfield and the university.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to execute partner deliverables in alignment with contract terms and brand standards
  • Maintain accurate records of sales activity and pipeline progress in CRM systems
  • Support the development of year-end recaps and participate in renewal planning discussions
  • Attend and contribute to game day operations and client hospitality events, including occasional nights and weekends
  • Stay informed on industry trends and best practices, brand activations, digital marketing tools, and emerging sponsorship platforms
  • Perform other related duties as required

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 4+ years of sales experience with a focus on building and maintaining client relationships
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet/exceed sales goals
  • Strong communication and presentation skills with a customer-first approach
  • Comfort navigating CRM systems and working within a performance-driven sales environment
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for game days and events

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in sports sponsorship or media sales (radio, signage, social, digital, etc.)
  • Familiarity with marketing solutions that include digital and experiential assets
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university

Learfield offers a full spectrum of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance and Other Insurance Plans, Flexible Paid Time Off (minimum 10+ days annually), including Parental Leave, 20 Paid Holidays, 401(k) + Match, and Short/Long Term Disability. Leave benefits are consistent with state and local laws, including the Colorado Health Families and Workplaces Act.
Learfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.

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