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Sports Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Marquee Development

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

GO BEYOND THE IVY Our business is a team sport built on creating and delivering memorable ... Managing Director, Development LOCATION: Chicago, IL FLSA STATUS: Exempt COMPENSATION: $115,000 ...

My1060wd

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

GO BEYOND THE IVY Our business is a team sport built on creating and delivering memorable ... Managing Director, Development LOCATION: Chicago, IL FLSA STATUS: Exempt COMPENSATION: $115,000 ...

Fox

Audience Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

In addition to distributing sports, entertainment and syndicated content, our television stations ... FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement strategies ...

Kdfw Fox 4

Audience Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

In addition to distributing sports, entertainment and syndicated content, our television stations ... FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement strategies ...

CHAMPRO

Software Development Manager

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

... sports products. Position: Join our team as a hands-on Software Development Manager, where you'll ... lead a talented team of developers, drive technical innovation, and deliver impactful software ...

CHAMPRO

Software Development Manager

Bannockburn, IL · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

... sports products. Position: Join our team as a hands-on Software Development Manager, where you'll ... lead a talented team of developers, drive technical innovation, and deliver impactful software ...

i9 Sports

Summer Camp Sports Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Training & development Love sports? Played minimum varsity high school in either soccer or football ... Help run summer camp activities, including organizing groups, managing transitions, keeping kids ...

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Sports Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$79.8K

$137K

How much do sports development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports development manager in Chicago, IL is $79,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,200.00 and $93,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports development manager?

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 is a sports development manager?

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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sports Development Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sports Development Manager job openings:
Sports Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,755 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Development Manager

Marquee Development

Chicago, IL • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

GO BEYOND THE IVY
Our business is a team sport built on creating and delivering memorable experiences around Cubs baseball and other live events.
Chicago Cubs | Marquee 360 | Marquee Development | Marquee Ventures
Each brand stands as unique as the teams that drive them. We welcome you to learn more about us.
JOB TITLE: Development Manager
DEPARTMENT: Development
ORGANZIATION: Marquee Development
REPORTS TO: Managing Director, Development
LOCATION: Chicago, IL
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
COMPENSATION: $115,000 - $140,000 base salary USD and eligible for discretionary bonus plan
BEING PART OF THE TEAM
Our business is a team sport that began on a field with baseballs and bats and has evolved into one of the most recognizable brands in sports and entertainment through Cubs baseball and live events. Our success is driven by our people, who work to create and inspire change in an engaging, collaborative and inclusive environment. As a team, we continue to build a culture on and off the field that delivers unforgettable experiences for one another, our fans and community. In support of that effort, we expect associates to work primarily in our office. Are you ready to be part of it?
OUR STORY
MARQUEE DEVELOPMENT is a full-service real estate firm that specializes in mixed-use sports and entertainment districts. We strategically manage every aspect of a sports-adjacent mixed-use development with a best-in-class ability to curate the experience for a team, fans and community. By bringing bring a sports-operational mindset to traditional real estate development, we focus on the critical integration of team operations and real estate to ensure the experience amplifies the brand of the district, while complementing and protecting the team brand to maximize long-term franchise value.
HOW YOU'LL CONTRIBUTE
We are looking for an experienced and versatile Development Manager to contribute to Marquee Development's growth and help us innovate and expand our business processes. Our ideal candidate has a strong background in architectural design, urban planning, construction, real estate finance, and/or other aspects of development. A demonstrated ability to build critical relationships with our external development partners and consultants is required. They will be expected to coordinate with external development partners and consultants to achieve critical project execution. If you are passionate about driving results, have an entrepreneurial spirit, and love the rewarding challenge of turning concept into built reality, we want to hear from you.
THE DAY-TO-DAY:
  • Coordinate and facilitate external design activities, directing architects, engineers, general contractors, and related subconsultants
  • Manage design and construction schedule and status for an assigned development, coordinating closely with ownership and other project team members to ensure critical project execution
  • Work with sub-contractors and assist in drawing and specification preparation, as well as review pricing and consultant contracts. Review working drawings.
  • Lead the development of detailed project budgets and schedules
  • Monitor and review contractors' work as it relates to budget, schedule, and owner's program
  • Support project executive and project manager in managing bid process and executing contracts
  • Assist owner and/or tenants in space planning, budget preparation, material selection, cost estimating, construction contracts, and cost monitoring
  • Prepare construction updates for the development group. Prepare and monitor cost estimates, budget updates, change order reports
  • Maintain and monitor the progress of punch lists
  • Control project documentation and historical data regarding construction
  • Assist in the development of project deliverables, research, and collateral
  • Work in concert with project managers to organize and monitor project status, schedule, and deliverables
  • Demonstrate commitment to stakeholder needs and on-time project delivery
  • Report project outcomes and/or risks to the appropriate management channels as needed
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with project stakeholders and team members
  • Complete necessary administrative tasks, such as data gathering, email, PowerPoint, and project organization

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:
  • Undergraduate degree in urban planning, architecture, construction, engineering, real estate, and/or business. MBA or MRED a plus
  • Highly organized, with minimum five years of experience in oversight of development projects within architecture, urban planning, construction management, or a related field
  • Demonstrated knowledge of building design and construction processes
  • General understanding of real estate finance fundamentals including, hard and soft cost budgeting, components of revenue/leasing, return on cost, and levered/unlevered internal rate of return
  • Ability to manage multiple projects at once
  • Thorough understanding of project management tools
  • Ability to take direction and execute tasks and projects accordingly
  • Ability to thrive in a high-volume, deadline-driven work environment
  • Reliable, trustworthy, and committed to the team's success
  • Previous success in team management and project delivery
  • Experience coaching and educating project teams to strengthen team members' capabilities and skill sets

TOTAL REWARDS:
  • On-site parking
  • Transit benefits
  • Paid time off: Personal, Sick, Vacation Time, Office Holidays & Winter Break
  • Flexible work arrangement
  • Casual work attire environment
  • Complimentary Meal & beverage plan
  • Access to campus wide Wrigley Field events & pre-sales
  • 401K Plan Employee Contribution & Employer Match
  • Benefit Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
  • Health & Wellness engagement & programming
  • Variety of associate special events, volunteer opportunities and partnership discounts
  • Monthly allotment for internal rewards & recognition platform
  • Complimentary access to EV charging stations

The Chicago Cubs and its related parties embrace diversity and are committed to building a team that represents all communities. We hold ourselves accountable to include new and different voices in our organization. Everyone is welcome here, and we celebrate what makes each of us unique.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT The Chicago Cubs and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to inclusion and employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected characteristics.
Response Expectations:
Due to the overwhelming number of applications we receive, we unfortunately may not be able to respond in person to each applicant. However, we can assure you that you will receive an email confirmation when you apply as well as additional email notifications whether you are selected to move forward for the position or not. Please note, we keep all resumes on file and will contact you should we wish to schedule an interview with you.
The Chicago Cubs and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to inclusion and employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected characteristics.

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