Employer Spotlight: James “JB” Bryant, Colorado Rapids

James “JB” Bryant, Manager of Inside Sales for the Colorado Rapids, is coming to campus on December 3rd to discuss the Colorado Rapids Sales Combine.  The talk will take place on campus from 11:00am to 4:00pm and is invitation only.  You can apply for invitation at the following link: http://kroenkesportsjobs.teamworkonline.com/teamwork/r.cfm?i=121768

 

 

What was your motivation to choose the field you work in?

  • I always had a passion for sports and business and ticket sales for me was something that allowed me to learn from the ground up what it takes to be a successful professional organization. I knew sales and the right training could lead me to more opportunities than other aspects of the industry.

What steps in your career have you taken to lead you to your current position with the Colorado Rapids?

  • I started as a Sales Associate with Sporting KC (MLS in Kansas City) and then spent the majority of my selling career with the New York Yankees in an Account Executive, Retention Specialist and finally a Premium Sales Consultant. During my time at the Yankees I was responsible for recruiting and training our part time sales staff before moving into a full time management role with the Rapids/KSE.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

  • Growing careers. The best days are Inside Sales representatives getting promoted to the Account Executive positions. Majority of reps don’t come to our Academy with experience so seeing them grow professionally and personally gets me up in the mornings!

What qualities are you looking for in applicants wanting to work for the Colorado Rapids sales team?

  • We define our culture and philosophy through 4 key attributes. Effort, Discipline, Mental Toughness and Entrepreneurship. We are constantly looking for individuals that are hungry for success and want to pursue a career in sales.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants in the same field as yours?

  • The success and reputation of the best sales organizations doesn’t necessarily have any correlation to how well the team is on the field, court or ice. Focus on the individuals within the organization and not the logo of the franchise. People not logos are what helps you grow your career. Find great people to go work with and for and let the rest take care of itself.

 

 

Born and raised in Southern California, Neil is currently a Senior at Indiana University studying Sport Marketing and Management with minors in Business, Marketing, and Finance.  During his free time, Neil enjoys spending time in the outdoors, traveling, and attending sporting events.

By Neil Patel
Neil Patel Student Ambassador: Blog Co-Editor