Account Director - Sports
Summary
Account Director for sports properties leads client relationships and large-scale merchandise programs, from VIP initiatives to uniform rollouts, in a fast-paced agency environment.
Most companies claim to have the best people. We say to them, "Keep dreaming." Our people are second to none. They set us apart with their entrepreneurial spirit and ambition. They come to us from the likes of Amazon, Microsoft, Nordstrom, Starbucks and the sports world, bringing energy, bold ideas and a willingness to dive into the unfamiliar. It's our people that make BDA the top global Merchandise Agency to work for.
Role Overview
As an Account Manager — Sports Properties, you will own and grow key client relationships while leading complex merchandise programs across sports properties. This includes full ownership of initiatives ranging from VIP programs to large-scale uniform rollouts.
You will serve as the primary client contact, translating business and marketing objectives into innovative merchandise solutions and delivering them seamlessly from concept through execution. This role requires a strong commercial mindset, disciplined project management, and the ability to operate with urgency and accountability in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute merchandise strategies aligned with client goals, target audiences, budgets, and timelines
- Build and deliver compelling account plans, presentations, and client proposals
- Lead large-scale activations across sports properties, ensuring brand and licensing compliance
- Own client relationships, providing responsive, high-quality service and strategic guidance
- Identify and drive revenue growth opportunities within existing accounts
- Partner with internal teams (design, sourcing, logistics) to deliver best-in-class solutions
- Manage multiple programs simultaneously, ensuring on-time, on-budget, and on-spec delivery
- Proactively monitor client satisfaction, resolve challenges, and strengthen long-term partnerships
- Own financial performance, including revenue targets, margin management, budgets, and forecasting
- Stay ahead of merchandise, cultural, and industry trends to continuously elevate offerings
Skills, Experience & Traits
- 3+ years of experience in sales, account management, or client-facing roles
- Proven ability to grow accounts and develop strong client relationships
- Creative thinker with experience—or strong interest—in promotional merchandise
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Confident communicator with presentation and negotiation capabilities
- Financial acumen, including pricing, margins, and profitability management
- Experience working cross-functionally within complex or international organizations
Key Competencies:
- Energetic self-starter with a strong sense of ownership
- Hungry to grow business and proactively nurture client relationships
- Coachable and continuously learning
- Collaborative team player who thrives in a cross-functional, international environment
- Operates with accountability, urgency, and passion to deliver results
Qualifications & Tools
- Fluent in German and English (required)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)
- Experience with CRM systems; Salesforce preferred
- Promotional merchandise experience strongly preferred, but not required
We are pleased to share the base salary range for this position is €65,000 to €75,000. If you are hired at BDA, your compensation will be determined by factors such as skills, education, and experience, while also taking internal equity and pay fairness into account. In the spirit of transparency, the range listed represents the full base salary range for the role, with starting salaries typically set within this range to allow room for growth over time. Certain revenue-generating positions may be eligible for incentive compensation.
#LI-Onsite
#LI-LG1
Connect With Us! Not ready to apply? Connect with us for general consideration.