Business Development Executive - Sports & Entertainment

The Business Development Executive (BDE) – Sports & Entertainment is responsible for developing and growing profitable car and truck rental revenue within the sports and entertainment industry across the western half of the United States. This includes professional and collegiate sports teams, entertainment production companies, touring artists, film studios, and media organizations. The BDE will focus on acquiring new business, growing existing accounts, and developing strategic partnerships with key industry stakeholders.

This role is based in Los Angeles, CA, with frequent travel required to engage clients across the Western U.S., including major markets such as San Francisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Seattle, and Denver.

What You’ll Do:

• Develop a thorough understanding of Avis, Budget, and Budget Truck rental products and services tailored to sports and entertainment clients.
• Implement effective sales and marketing strategies to drive revenue growth and market share within the sports, film, television, and live entertainment sectors.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with sports teams, film production companies, talent agencies, event promoters, and industry partners throughout the region.
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure seamless service delivery for high-profile clients with specialized vehicle needs.
• Develop and present tailored proposals to clients, showcasing customized transportation solutions for tours, team travel, and production logistics.
• Identify and solve business challenges for clients, providing solutions that add value and enhance their mobility options.
• Negotiate rates and contract terms to secure long-term agreements with key accounts.
• Maintain account files, documentation, and sales pipeline using Salesforce CRM.
• Attend industry trade shows, sports and entertainment networking events, and sponsor activations to increase brand visibility and client engagement.
• Communicate regularly with internal teams to relay market trends, client feedback, and best practices for sales strategies in the entertainment sector.

Competencies for Success:

• Ability to develop creative and innovative sales strategies tailored to the dynamic sports and entertainment industries.
• Strong research, prospecting, and lead generation skills to uncover new business opportunities across multiple markets.
• Professional presence and ability to engage with high-profile clients, agents, and executives.
• Strong business acumen with excellent planning, organization, and negotiation skills.
• Team-oriented and collaborative mindset, working across departments to deliver exceptional customer experiences.
• High energy, credibility, and enthusiasm with a passion for sports and entertainment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with CRM tools (Salesforce preferred).

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of outside sales/account management experience in a related field (sports marketing, entertainment logistics, corporate travel, or hospitality preferred).
• Experience working with sports teams, film production, live events, or corporate travel is a plus.

Travel Requirements:

• Willingness to travel frequently throughout the U.S. for business as required.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Perks You’ll Get:

• Clear and defined career paths with opportunities for advancement.
• Access to Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability insurance.
• Additional voluntary benefits, including Group Legal, Identity Theft Protection, and Accident Insurance.
• Up to $260 tax-free benefit for public transportation or parking expenses.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with company-matched contributions.
• Full training to develop industry expertise and sales skills.
• Employee discounts, including reduced pricing on Avis/Budget car rentals.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for counseling, financial planning, and legal consultation.

Who We Are:

At Avis Budget Group, we’re more than just rentals. With over 70 years of experience and 11,000 locations across 180 countries, we shape the future of mobility with innovative, customer-focused solutions. Our brands—including Avis, Budget, Budget Truck, and Zipcar—connect people to more convenience, more options, and more time on the road.

We’re dedicated to supporting the fast-paced needs of the sports and entertainment industries, ensuring seamless mobility solutions for teams, productions, and high-profile clients across the Western United States.

Sound like your speed? Join our team today.

The Fine Print:

Avis Budget Group is an equal opportunity employer – M/F/Veterans/Disabled.