Chris Howard
Experienced business development and sales professional eager to get back into the Sports Industry
Lincoln Park, Illinois USAAbout
After graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in Sports Management, I worked in sales and game operations for the Chicago Sky, WNBA team. I then worked for NCSA Recruiting Network as a Collegiate Scout. Though my career took me in a different direction, my heart has always been in sports, and I knew I would be back where I belon
Experience
Account Manager
Jul 2022 - Nov 2024
Responsible for building and maintaining a book of business of several key accounts totaling $1 million. Managed overlapping programs with varying budgets while expanding and retaining key client accounts. Navigated complex sales cycles, collaborating with executive buyers from contracting to execution. Fostered long-term client relationships by
Director of Business Development
Dec 2019 - Dec 2021
Closed 60 deals, generating $402,000 in gross profit through strategic sales efforts. Sold COVID-related products during the pandemic, earning over $300,000 in gross profit. Managed complex sales cycles, working with end users and decision makers to close deals. Delivered results through adaptability and strategic sales in dynamic market conditions
Group Benefits Consultant
Dec 2017 - Dec 2019
Onboarded 164 groups, which represented $4 million in annual premiums. Explained benefits and features of plan options to help employers make informed decisions. Displayed ability to master new information quickly by passing the Insurance Licensing Exam and learning to use Spectrum CRM
Account Manager
Jan 2016 - Dec 2017
Managed 400 client accounts, generating revenue that exceeded $1 million. Converted $3.5 million account value to outside partners. Named 2016 National Rookie of the Year for achieving goals and exceeding sales quotas. Acted as a leading member of the Acquirent Employee Mentor Program
National Collegiate Scout
Oct 2014 - Nov 2015
▪ Evaluated academic and athletic qualifications of student athletes to match with 30,000 college coaches
▪ Enrolled 326 out of 1,313 potential student athletes into the database, resulting in $405,000 in revenue
▪ Scheduled 5 family recruiting evaluations for prospects daily with a Senior National Scout
Inside Sales Representative
Jan 2014 - Dec 2014
Sold ticket packages for the Chicago Sky Women’s Professional Basketball team. Created and worked with different individual, group and business accounts. Continuously familiarized myself with different news and updates within the league to keep my mind fresh and keep my sales process on point. Worked to build relationships with clients to ensure th
Community Relations and Game Operations Intern
Jan 2013 - Dec 2013
During the home games, worked in the tunnel making sure the game operations ran smoothly and effectively. Contacted veteran Honor Guard groups to invite them to attend a Sky home game and participate in the delivery of the National Anthem. Made trips to high traffic areas with the Sky mascot to market and network. Planned and strategized several di