Sales Account Manager

Since 1983, Goodguys Rod & Custom Association has celebrated the great American car culture through world-class events, credible and entertaining media content, and unforgettable enthusiast experiences. Today, Goodguys produces 15 nationally recognized events annually , attracting more than 400,000 spectators , 40,000 registered vehicles , and over 50,000 active members , making it the world's largest hot rod and classic car association. Our integrated marketing platforms connect leading automotive and consumer brands with one of the most loyal enthusiast communities in America through live events, digital media, print publications, memberships, and experiential marketing.

POSITION SUMMARY

Goodguys is seeking an experienced, client-focused Sales Account Manager to manage and protect our existing partner portfolio while simultaneously contributing to strategic department growth through targeted new partner additions. The primary objective of this role is high-touch account management, retention, and fulfillment. The Sales Account Manager will serve as the lead relationship manager and operational partner for our recurring sponsors, media advertisers, and live event exhibitors—ensuring exceptional ROI, driving year-over-year renewal rates, and executing flawless on-site activations. Additionally, this position carries secondary new signing expectations, requiring proactive outreach to onboard qualified new brands into the Goodguys event and media ecosystem.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

We are looking for a dedicated relationship strategist who takes deep pride in helping established partners succeed, but who also possesses the drive to bring fresh, aligned brands into our community. You aren't just managing contracts—you are building long-term value for our partners while keeping an eye out for new opportunities to expand our ecosystem. If you blend operational excellence and high-touch service with a healthy sales drive, you will thrive here.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Key Account Management & Retention (Primary Responsibility ~ 80%) Portfolio Leadership: Serve as the primary, high-touch account manager for an assigned portfolio of established corporate sponsors, recurring exhibitors, and media advertisers. Account Expansion & Upsells: Grow account spend organically by identifying opportunities to expand partner footprints into print, digital, social, and experiential live event activations. Flawless Campaign Fulfillment: Lead complete post-sale execution—ensuring all contracted vendor space, signage, digital assets, Choice Products, and Best New Products promotions are impeccably delivered. Client Retention & ROI: Conduct ongoing strategy reviews, mid-season check-ins, and post-event reporting to maintain high client satisfaction and secure predictable year-over-year renewals. Issue Resolution: Act as a proactive problem solver to address client feedback and resolve event or advertising operational challenges swiftly. 2. Strategic New Business Signing (Secondary Expectation ~ 20%) Targeted Acquisition: Identify, prospect, and pitch qualified new brands (automotive aftermarket, lifestyle, regional vendors) to meet annual new signing goals. Full-Cycle Onboarding: Guide prospective clients through initial outreach, discovery, custom proposal presentation, and contract execution. Cross-Channel Selling: Pitch integrated packages combining physical outdoor/indoor exhibitor space, experiential activations, print media, and targeted digital/social campaigns to prospective partners. Special Projects: Drive partner inclusion in specialized company revenue projects, including promotional vehicle builds, restorations, and revenue-producing road tours. 3. Live Event Execution & Operations On-Site Client Support: Attend live event weekends to manage vendor placement, support sponsor activations, and conduct face-to-face partner check-ins on the event floor. Exhibitor Operations: Oversee indoor/outdoor booth layout logistics and resolve client operational issues swiftly on-site. Data Management: Maintain daily utilization of CRM tools (Pipedrive) to accurately track client interactions, pipeline opportunities, asset delivery, and contract renewals. Strategic Input: Monitor industry trends, competitor offerings, and client feedback to contribute to annual print/digital editorial calendars and partnership packaging strategies.

COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree (B.A.) in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field preferred. Equivalent work experience and track record of success will be considered. Minimum 5 years of proven success in key account management, partner retention, or sponsorship sales within live events, media, or the automotive industry. Proven Results: Strong track record of maintaining high account retention rates alongside demonstrated success closing new revenue opportunities. Industry Passion: Automotive/motorsports enthusiasm is strongly preferred (or a genuine desire to immerse yourself in car culture). Proficiency with CRM systems (Pipedrive), Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and Mac/PC platforms. Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting custom proposals and strategy decks. Attributes: Detail-oriented, customer-centric, organized, and calm under pressure during fast-paced event execution. Physical & Travel Requirements: Ability to travel up to 70% of the time (or up to 17 event weekends per year) across the country. Capability to lift up to 50 lbs during event setup and activation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Goodguys Rod & Custom Association