Sports Marketing Manager – UK Football Clubs

About the role

This position sits at the core of New Balance’s football strategy, linking product, brand and partnership teams. Based in London, you will manage the UK club portfolio, ensuring seamless execution of key seasonal moments and strengthening the brand’s cultural and commercial presence in football.

Key responsibilities

• Own day‑to‑day management of the UK club portfolio and act as primary contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate operational execution across product launches, activations and partnership milestones, aligning with Brand, Product, Operations and Commercial teams.
• Maintain critical paths and seasonal calendars to guarantee timely delivery of partnership activities.
• Enhance partnership value by collaborating with global, regional and local teams to drive brand and commercial impact.
• Build and nurture trusted relationships with clubs, athletes, agents and industry partners.
• Lead product servicing and seeding for clubs and athletes, ensuring a premium experience.
• Support player contract negotiations within agreed budgets and partnership frameworks.
• Represent New Balance at matches, shoots, events and key club activations.

Required profile

• Several years of experience in football‑related sports marketing, partnerships or sponsorship.
• Strong existing network within the UK football landscape.
• Proven track record of managing club and/or athlete partnerships.
• Experience working in a matrix organisation and ability to influence cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent communication, relationship‑building and negotiation skills.
• Strategic thinker with a practical, results‑focused approach.
• Self‑starter with high ownership, accountability and urgency.
• Genuine passion for football, sport and culture.
• Willingness to travel domestically (25%+), including occasional evenings and weekends.

Required skills

• Proficiency in English.

What we offer

• Discretionary bonus opportunity.
• Private medical insurance and dental scheme.
• Pension scheme.
• Flexible working hours with hybrid model (3 days on‑site).
• 25 days annual leave.