We’re Pentland Brands; a dynamic, global family business, and proud owners and licensees of many iconic active and footwear brands. With a community of over 1,300 team members worldwide, we embrace diversity and inclusion, and champion growth and development. Our success is built on teamwork, courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

WHAT’S THE MISSION FOR THIS ROLE?

The sports Marketing Manager will be responsible for recruiting, managing, and activating a global roster of athletes across gravel. Mountain biking (all disciplines), and BMX. This role requires a blend of strategic vision, relationship management, and hands-on execution to ensure athletes embody the brand’s values and authentically connect with audiences. The manager will also strategically plan and execute high-impact 3rd party supported events and brand led activations that bring the brand to life, creating memorable experiences that resonate with audiences and elevate brand presence.

The ideal candidate is deeply embedded in the cycling community, understands athlete needs, and has a proven track record in developing impactful, athlete-driven campaigns that drive brand engagement and growth.

Please note that 80% of this role is athlete management.

WHAT DOES THIS ROLE DO?

As our Sports Marketing Manager you’ll work with some of the world’s best riders’, name dropping a few Kriss Kyle, Gee Atherton, Rachel Atherton, Joe Barnes, Reed Boggs, Jonny Salido  you will be responsible for:

• Global brand Plan
  • Support the Head of Marketing & Senior Marketing Manager with the delivery of the global brand plan, by leading athlete projects and event initiatives to achieve collective results across brand and business KPIs.
  • You will help develop the athlete strategy into key markets working closely with our marketing teams and partners as a key point of contact to ensure they understand the global athlete marketing plans and leverage.

• Athlete Recruitment & Relationship Management
  • Curate, recruit, and manage a diverse portfolio of athletes that align with the brand’s strategy and goals.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with athletes, and as the gatekeeper, collaboratively support both their career growth and brand goals.
  • Ensure athletes understand and represent the brand values both on and off the field, acting as strong advocates.
  • Oversee contract negotiations and renewals. Ensure fair agreements that support both brand and athlete’s goals and adherence to agreed terms.

• Marketing Activation & Campaign Development
  • Develop and execute marketing campaigns that leverage athlete stories to connect with audiences.
  • Collaborate with the creative team to produce authentic, engaging content across various channels.

• Strategic Planning and Campaign Execution
  • Develop the athlete marketing strategy and implement 360 athlete marketing plans that elevate brand awareness across disciplines.
  • Collaborate with athletes to create compelling, authentic content for digital, social, and in-person channels.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to integrate athlete stories and endorsements into broader brand campaigns for optimal reach and impact.

• Event Activation & Athlete Support
  • Strategically plan and execute high-impact 3rd party supported events and brand led activations that bring the brand to life, crating memorable experiences that resonate with audience and elevate brand presence.
  • Plan and execute athlete involvement in events, including product launches, community rides, 3rd party event appearances.
  • Provide logistical support, from travel to gear and apparel needs, ensuring athletes are well-prepared for appearances.
  • Serve as the on-the-ground brand ambassador at key events to manage athlete interactions and logistics.
  • Collaborate with PR and social on content opportunities.

• Content Creation & Collaboration
  • Work with athletes and the creative team to produce high-quality, authentic content (photos, videos, and social media posts) that resonates with audiences and builds brand authenticity.
  • Guide and support athletes in branded content creation, ensuing consistency with brand voice and messaging.
  • Develop and manage a content calendar featuring athlete stories, highlights, and brand activations.
  • Partner with social media team to maximise content reach and engagement.

• Performance Tracking & Reporting
  • Set KPIs for athlete programs, with individual goals and targets for each athlete, tracking their impact on brand metrics and sales growth.
  • Monitor and report on athlete engagement, campaign ROI, and brand impact.
  • Provide regular feedback and insights to athletes on their performance and brand alignment.

• Market & Competitor Analysis
  • Stay informed on industry trends, competitor athlete strategies, and emerging talent in gravel, mountain biking (all disciplines), and BMX.

WHAT DO I BRING TO THE ROLE?

You just might be our next superstar if you have the following skills and experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in athlete management or sports marketing, preferably within the cycling or outdoor sports industry.
• A passion for identifying and working with world class sporing talent and inspiring more people to get out and feel the euphoria that comes with riding on two wheels.
• Proven relationship management skills and experience working with high-profile athletes and influencers.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute events, as well as produce engaging, athlete-driven campaigns.
• Analytical mindset with experience in tracking KPIs, data analysis and campaign reporting.

We want you to live our company principles, bringing a strong consumer focus, while always looking for ways to improve and grow in your role. Take ownership of your work and be proactive in solving problems whilst communicating openly and treating everyone with respect and kindness. And, of course, let your creativity shine by bringing your unique style and individuality to the Pentland Brands Team.

Sports Marketing Manager | Livingston/Edinburgh/Glasgow location TBC | Permanent, full time)

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

• Competitive salary + discretionary bonus
• 25 Days Holiday: Increases with length of service and the option to purchase additional days to suit your needs.
• Discounts: Brand discounts (including friends and family and JD Sports), Sample Sales, and other retail discounts and perks.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: Generous enhanced parental leave policies
• Health Perks: Choose from a variety of health-related perks including medical cash plan, critical illness cover, life assurance, gym and fitness discounts, dental insurance, eye care, and health screening to maintain your wellbeing.
• Travel Perks: Take advantage of our season ticket loan, cycle to work schemes, electric car schemes, and discounts on home charging units to support eco-friendly commuting.
• Flexible Working: We offer hybrid working and flexible working hours, allowing you to start your day earlier or later to help with commute costs or personal commitments.
• Chance to join our Charity, D&I and Sustainability employee networks.

As an equal opportunity employer, we’re committed to fostering diversity and creating an inclusive culture across our business, stores, and office environment.

We warmly welcome your application.