StubHub is on a mission to redefine the live event experience on a global scale. Whether someone is looking to attend their first event or their hundredth, we’re here to delight them all the way from the moment they start looking for a ticket until they step through the gate. The same goes for our sellers. From fans selling a single ticket to the promoters of a worldwide stadium tour, we want StubHub to be the safest, most convenient way to offer a ticket to the millions of fans who browse our platform around the world.
We’re looking for a strategic and driven Director of Basketball & Hockey Partnerships to lead our Direct Issuance efforts across the NBA, NHL, and other North American basketball and hockey leagues. Your mission: secure direct ticketing partnerships with professional teams, leagues, and affiliated entities — from the major leagues to development and new-market properties.
In this highly relationship-focused role, you’ll own the full partnership lifecycle: sourcing, pitching, negotiating, and executing deals that bring ticket inventory directly to StubHub. You’ll work closely with our legal, product, marketing, and operations teams to structure impactful partnerships and drive value for teams and fans alike.
Location: Hybrid (3 days in office/2 days remote) – New York, NY or Santa Monica, CA
What You'll Do:
- Identify, prioritize, and lead ticketing partnerships with NBA, NHL, and other basketball/hockey leagues and teams across North America.
- Own the full sales cycle: outreach, relationship building, deal structuring, negotiation, and contracting.
- Build deep, trusted relationships with team and league executives, rights holders, and affiliated partners.
- Represent StubHub at games, league events, and meetings — requiring regular domestic travel (up to 50%).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to activate and scale new deals.
- Stay informed on league policies, technology trends, and distribution practices to refine strategy.
- Maintain pipeline reporting, forecast performance, and contribute to DI team growth targets
What You've Done:
- 10+ years in business development, partnerships, or sports sales — with significant experience in pro basketball or hockey.
- Demonstrated success closing high-value partnerships with teams, leagues, or sports tech companies.
- Strong understanding of the North American basketball and hockey ecosystems — including league operations and ticketing dynamics.
- Existing network within the NBA, NHL, G-League, AHL, or related properties is a plus.
- Experience in ticketing or marketplace platforms preferred.
- Excellent communication, relationship management, and negotiation skills.
- Ability and willingness to travel frequently throughout the U.S. and Canada.
What We Offer:
- Accelerated Growth Environment: Immerse yourself in an environment designed for swift skill and knowledge enhancement, where you have the autonomy to lead experiments and tests on a massive scale.
- Top Tier Compensation Package: Enjoy a rewarding compensation package that includes enticing stock incentives, aligning with our commitment to recognizing and valuing your contributions.
- Flexible Time Off: Embrace a healthy work-life balance with unlimited Flex Time Off, providing you the flexibility to manage your schedule and recharge as needed.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package, featuring 401k, and premium Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance options.
The anticipated gross base pay range is below for this role. Actual compensation will vary depending on factors such as a candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, and competencies. Base annual salary is one component of StubHub’s total compensation and competitive benefits package, which includes equity, 401(k), paid time off, paid parental leave, and comprehensive health benefits.
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