Now Hiring - Red River Valley Fair Association - Director of Business Development in West Fargo, ND

Full description of the position

Job Summary The Red River Valley Fair Association is seeking a dynamic, relationship- driven Director of Business Development to lead sponsorship development, corporate partnerships, and Long-Term Land Lease development across our year- round organization. This position reports directly to the CEO and plays a key leadership role in driving revenue growth, building community relationships, and expanding the Fair's regional impact. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy environment and love building win- win partnerships, this is an opportunity to make a real difference while working in one of the most exciting event organizations in the region. About Us Mission: The Red River Valley Fair is dedicated to providing a safe, multi-use complex that is entertaining, educational, and sets the standard for excellence in enriching lives. From the annual Red River Valley Fair to Big Iron, concerts, community festivals, and livestock shows -- our organization connects agriculture, entertainment, and community. Position Overview The Director of Business Development responsible to Grow the Organization by identifying new markets, customers, and revenue streams, develop and execute strategies to expand the business. This will be accomplished by build strategic partnerships, establishing and nurture relationships with partners, vendors, sponsors, affiliates, and key stakeholders, and negotiating agreements that align with the company's long- term goals. By assessing marketing & competitive opportunities, researching trends, competitors, and customer needs, and using insights to guide decision- making and recommend new initiatives. This position will be responsible for developing and managing assigned sponsorship programs, securing funding, and cultivating long-term relationships with corporate and community partners. You will lead sponsorship strategy from prospecting and proposal development through contract execution, activation, and fulfillment. This role blends business development, sales, lead generation, public & government relations, and event operations into one exciting position for a motivated professional who enjoys closing deals and seeing their work come to life at major events. Key Responsibilities Sponsorship & Partnership Development * Identify, prospect, and solicit new sponsors and partners * Develop customized sponsorship proposals and packages * Negotiate partnership agreements and manage renewals * Build and maintain strong relationships with business and community leaders * Present sponsorship opportunities to company executives and decision makers * Represent the Red River Valley Fair in a professional and positive manner * Drive lead generation through networking, cold outreach, referrals, and community engagement * Build a strong sponsorship sales pipeline and consistently close new business Long-Term Land Lease & Business Development * Identify development opportunities on Fair Association-owned land * Prospect and engage area businesses for long-term lease opportunities * Lead negotiations for long-term land lease agreements * Coordinate development concepts with executive leadership * Manage the full development process from concept through execution * Coordinate all zoning, permitting, engineering, and regulatory approvals * Serve as primary liaison between business tenants, city officials, engineers, and contractors * Oversee lease compliance, renewals, and long-term relationship management Account Management & Fulfillment * Manage assigned sponsorship contracts, payments, and insurance documentation * Ensure all sponsor commitments are fulfilled on both sides * Coordinate sponsor signage, branding, and on-site activations * Track and report sponsorship performance and results * Maintain accurate financial records and provide reporting to the Accounting Department * Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned sponsor accounts Public & Government Relations * Serve as liaison between the organization and local, state, and federal government officials as assigned by the CEO * Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and community stakeholders Assist with Grand Champion Experience and VIP hospitality * Represent the organization at public meetings, hearings, forums, and community events * Support executive leadership in public presentations, testimony, and stakeholder briefings * Track bills, appropriations, and policy proposals relevant to operations, funding, and infrastructure * Advocate for policies, funding, and legislation that support the organization's mission and long-term growth * Assist in drafting, reviewing, and advancing legislation aligned with organizational priorities * Other duties assigned by the CEO. Qualifications & Skills * Proven experience in business development, sales, sponsorships, fundraising, or partnerships * Ability to work flexible hours during fair and event seasons * Strategic thinker * Negotiation & sales acumen * Analytical mindset * Excellent written and verbal communication * Strong lead generation and prospecting skills * Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities * Relationship-driven mindset with strong networking ability * Highly organized with strong attention to detail * Ability to manage multiple deals, timelines, and deliverables * Comfortable working in a fast-paced, event-driven environment What We Offer * $65,000 - $100,000+ with commission/bonus plan * The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a premier regional organization * 401(k) with matching * Health, dental, vision, and life insurance * Paid time off * A collaborative, fun, and high-energy work environment Pay: $65,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year Benefits: * 401(k) * 401(k) matching * Cell phone reimbursement * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Life insurance * Paid time off * Vision insurance Work Location: In person