The Minnesota Section of the PGA of America, founded in 1917, is one of 41 Sections that comprise the PGA of America. Our Section includes over 600 PGA Professionals serving golf facilities, resorts, and organizations throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (east of the Missouri River), and parts of western Wisconsin.
The Minnesota PGA is dedicated to promoting the game and business of golf through player development, competitive opportunities, education, and community impact. Through our charitable arm, PGA REACH Minnesota, we support Junior Golf programs, Veteran initiatives (including Fort Snelling GC and PGA HOPE), and local charitable giving that make the game more inclusive and accessible to all.
Our Culture and Mission
At the Minnesota PGA, we are committed to growing the game and enriching lives through golf. Our team culture is collaborative, community-minded, and purpose-driven, focused on creating positive experiences for players, professionals, and partners across our region.
We value integrity, professionalism, and innovation, and we strive to make a difference by connecting people to the game and to each other. Every member of our team plays a role in advancing our mission:
To serve our PGA Professionals and grow the game of golf while making a meaningful impact in our communities.
Title: Business Development Director
Position Description: The Business Development Director will be responsible for driving revenue growth through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and innovative business initiatives. This role will identify and cultivate new revenue streams to support PGA REACH Minnesota, which includes Junior Golf, Veteran programs (Fort Snelling GC, PGA HOPE, and other regional entities), and local beneficiaries and charitable giving.
The ideal candidate is a proactive, relationship-driven professional with experience in corporate partnerships, fundraising, and business development — and a passion for growing the game of golf and strengthening communities through it
Revenue Growth & Business Development
Develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy to increase funding for PGA REACH Minnesota programs.
Identify and secure new sponsorships, partnerships, and revenue opportunities with corporations, foundations, and community stakeholders.
Create and market customized sponsorship and partnership packages aligned with partner objectives.
Explore non-traditional revenue sources such as event partnerships, merchandising, and digital opportunities.
Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective sponsors, donors, and community leaders.
Develop collaborative opportunities with golf courses, PGA Professionals, and allied golf associations.
Engage with local businesses, veteran organizations, and civic leaders to enhance community and program impact.
Event & Program Support
Support fundraising and sponsorship efforts for Junior Golf, Veteran initiatives, and charitable giving events across the Section.
Help plan and execute signature fundraising events, tournaments, and campaigns to generate revenue and awareness.
Work with communications and marketing teams to highlight program success stories and sponsorship activations.
Financial & Strategic Planning
Collaborate with leadership to set and achieve annual revenue goals and partnership objectives.
Track, analyze, and report on sponsorship performance, revenue generation, and ROI.
Research and identify emerging trends and opportunities to ensure sustained Section growth.
Including, but not limited to, the following:
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or related field.
3–5 years of experience in business development, sponsorship sales, or corporate partnerships (sports, nonprofit, or golf industry experience preferred).
Demonstrated success in building partnerships and generating revenue.
Strong understanding of the golf industry, community engagement, and philanthropic development.
Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
Creative thinker with the ability to develop innovative funding strategies.
Passion for the mission of PGA REACH Minnesota and the broader golf community.
The Section will provide compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. This includes but not limited to:
Performance-Based Incentives: Additional compensation tied to sales and partnership achievements.
All applications MUST be submitted through the PGA of America's Career Services Department as described below.
Resume deadline is January 15th, 2025 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time
Combine your cover letter, resume, references, and any supporting documents into one (1) PDF document with the following file naming convention: Last Name, First Name, Facility, Search Position
Please address all correspondence to - Mr. Jeff "JD" Drimel, PGA | CEO | Minnesota Section of the PGA of America
Andrea Kloppman-Heit, PGA is the lead consultant for this search, please contact her with any questions.
Email: akloppmanheit@pgahq.com
The employer does not wish to be contacted at this time
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