Professional Fighters League

Head of Global Partnerships
New York, NY

Reports to Chief Executive Officer

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Background:

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is the fastest-growing and most innovative sports league in the world. With a unique sports-season format, proprietary SmartCage technology, and an elite global roster of MMA talent, PFL has reimagined combat sports for a new generation of fans. The league is broadcast in over 150 countries on premium media partners like ESPN, DAZN, and MBC, and recently expanded with the acquisition of Bellator, positioning PFL as the co-leader in global MMA.

The PFL's platform spans live events, international league development (including PFL Europe and PFL MENA), premium Pay-Per-View super fights, and cutting-edge digital content. With investments in proprietary technology and a data-driven content ecosystem, PFL is building a next-gen combat sports experience for fans, fighters, and commercial partners.

Position Summary:

PFL is seeking an accomplished and globally minded Head of Global Partnerships to lead the strategy, sales, and execution of worldwide sponsorship and brand partnerships. This executive will be responsible for driving revenue through innovative collaborations with global brands across sport, lifestyle, gaming, media, and technology sectors. The ideal candidate will be a visionary dealmaker with experience in international markets, content-driven activations, and sponsorship models across digital, broadcast, and live event platforms.

This leader will build a world-class partnership program that aligns brands with PFL’s premium sports product and global audience while unlocking new commercial opportunities across the league’s core and emerging business units. A deep understanding of sport sponsorship, cultural fluency, and the ability to execute across borders and categories are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive global partnerships strategy that maximizes sponsorship revenue across all PFL assets—live events, PPV Super Fights, regional leagues, digital content, and SmartCage data/IP.
• Identify, pitch, and close multi-million-dollar global and regional sponsorships with Fortune 500 brands, endemic and non-endemic advertisers, and tech and media innovators.
• Lead and scale a global partnerships team with local market expertise and high-performance culture, spanning North America, EMEA, Latin America, and APAC.
• Integrate brand partners into PFL content, broadcast, in-arena, and digital platforms through compelling, culturally relevant storytelling and customized activations.
• Collaborate across departments including marketing, media rights, product, fighter operations, and international expansion to ensure alignment and maximize partnership impact.
• Negotiate and manage complex agreements, ensuring contract terms meet business objectives and deliver measurable value for all stakeholders.
• Deliver strategic insights and reporting on partnership performance, ROI, and industry trends, while maintaining fiscal discipline and ownership of sponsorship P&L.
• Represent PFL on the global stage at premier industry events, building C-suite relationships and brand equity for the league across regions and verticals.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 12–15 years of experience in high-performing global partnership sales, sponsorships, or business development roles in sports, entertainment, or media.
• A proven track record of closing high-value international sponsorship deals and managing brand relationships across multiple territories.
• Experience working with media rights holders, agencies, digital platforms, and sports leagues with strong broadcast and content distribution.
• Strong international business acumen with the ability to navigate cross-cultural negotiations and adapt to diverse market dynamics.
• Experience building and leading global sales or commercial teams, with a focus on performance, accountability, and innovation.
• Exceptional storytelling, pitch, and negotiation skills with the ability to influence and inspire at the executive level.
• A passion for combat sports, fan engagement, and the evolution of global sports media.
• International work experience is a significant advantage.

PFL’s Commitment:

PFL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where bold ideas thrive, and innovation drives global growth. We welcome and celebrate individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities, and we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Salary Range

$650-750K plus bonus (commensurate with experience)