Development Programs & Internships

Development programs and internships within the business operations of the Cleveland Guardians is essential in cultivating the next generation of our leaders. These programs provide aspiring business professionals with practical experience and insights into the world of sports. By working alongside experienced professionals, interns and development program participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the operational dynamics that keep a baseball team thriving. These opportunities not only equip individuals with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in sports business but also foster a network of industry contacts and mentors. Through hands-on projects and real-world challenges, participants are prepared to contribute to the success and growth of a baseball team’s business operations.


Sales Development Program

Program Details: Step into the dynamic world of sports sales with our part-time, year-round program tailored for entry-level professionals. Dive into a comprehensive learning experience designed to build a strong foundation in sports sales. Drive revenue by selling a diverse product line inclusive of season ticket plans, group sales, and premium hospitality programs.

Our program isn't just about learning; it's about becoming a future leader in sports sales. We strategically structure our curriculum to nurture the next generation of sales trailblazers in the industry. Armed with in-depth product knowledge and finely tuned sales skills, you'll not only thrive in your current role but also lay the groundwork for future success.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to your growth. Throughout the program, you'll receive continuous guidance through coaching, mentorship, and a wide variety of development opportunities. You’ll continuously refine your selling abilities and sharpen your business acumen, setting you on a trajectory towards success in the sports industry and beyond.

Program Highlights:

  • Small program size facilitating hands-on learning and personalized coaching
  • Opportunity to cultivate revenue generation achievements and the ability to add high volume sales numbers to your resume
  • Real-world experience initiating and executing sales calls from strategically targeted sales leads, video and in-person sales meetings, and prospecting group clients
  • Support in in-game activities, including assisting in the execution of group events such as on-field parades, picnics, and pre-game programming
  • Monthly meetings with leadership, including President, Business Operations and Senior Vice President, Ticket Sales & Service

Program Timeline: Participants in our program enjoy a flexible schedule of 20-25 hours per week, ideally aligned with our daytime operation hours. With a rolling application process, participants are brought on board as spots become available. Once enrolled, participants remain in the program until they secure a role within our organization or choose to embark on their sales journey externally, armed with the invaluable skills acquired during their tenure with us.

Business Development Program

Program Details: Immersive 11-month development program, diving into a diverse sales curriculum that unlocks the inner workings of revenue generation within the esteemed Cleveland Guardians organization. This opportunity provides firsthand exposure to the intricacies of corporate partnership, premium hospitality, and ticket sales, allowing participants to gain invaluable insights into each facet of the business. From researching potential partnerships to orchestrating unforgettable fan experiences, our program offers a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic landscape of sports sales.

Tailored to cultivate the next generation of sales and service leaders in the sports industry, our program equips participants to become well-rounded experts, mastering not only the art of sales but also honing their skills across various business dimensions such as service recovery, contract negotiation, market research and more.

Guided by seasoned mentors and immersive experiences, our program ensures that participants are armed with the indispensable tools and skills needed to thrive as successful sales executives in the competitive realm of professional sports.

Program Highlights:

  • Limited program size designed to enable immersive learning with tailored guidance
  • Chance to develop revenue-generating skills and bolster your resume with impressive sales figures in multi-disciplinary product lines
  • Hands-on experience in prospecting and closing sales through strategic outreach methods directly to consumer and business to business
  • Assistance in organizing and executing events within the game environment with Corporate Partners and relevant groups
  • Monthly meetings with leadership, including President, Business Operations and Senior Vice President, Ticket Sales & Service

Program Timeline: Participants in our program benefit from a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week, providing ample time for immersive learning and skill development. Recruitment for this program typically begins in late summer and continues until spring. The program spans from June to April of the following season, encompassing a comprehensive eleven-month duration. As the program nears its conclusion, participants become eligible to interview for open positions, such as Corporate Partnership, Season Ticket, or Group Ticket Account Executives, Corporate Partnership Activation, Season & Group Ticket Service Representatives, or other relevant opportunities within our organization. Alternatively, they may opt to receive professional guidance and support in exploring external opportunities, leveraging the skills and experiences gained during their tenure in our program.

Internships

Program Details: We offer a multitude of enriching opportunities through our diverse range of formalized internships, each tailored to different areas of our organization. Our interns play a pivotal role contributing to impactful projects that leave a lasting imprint on our organization.

Our internships offer immersive, hands-on learning opportunities across key areas of the sports business landscape. Participants work closely with seasoned professionals, gaining invaluable insights and exposure to real-world scenarios that shape their understanding and expertise.

Our interns are empowered to make meaningful contributions and shape the future of our organization. In these roles, individuals join a passionate team that helps broaden your skill set and propels you towards a rewarding career.

Current internship offerings are as follows:

  • Baseball Information
  • Ballpark Services (Facility/Security/Events)
  • Copywriting
  • Design
  • Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Program Highlights:

  • Benefit from one-on-one coaching and guidance directly from tenured staff members who have years of experience and success in the sports industry and network with industry leaders providing you with valuable connections.
  • Work on high-impact projects that directly contribute to the operations and success of a major sports organization that is a cornerstone of the Northeast Ohio community.
  • Gain impressive, hands-on experience that will make your resume stand out and experience a wide range of responsibilities and challenges within the Front Office.
  • Develop a holistic skill set while you are challenged to think critically, solve complex problems, and work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Program Timeline: Interns in our program enjoy a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week, allowing for immersive learning and comprehensive skill development. Recruitment for our internship program typically commences in late summer, with positions filled by December.

The internships begin in January and extend until the culmination of the baseball season. This structured timeline ensures participants have the opportunity to fully engage with our organization, gain hands-on experience, and make meaningful contributions throughout the duration of their internship. You’ll develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares you for a successful career, whether you choose to stay in sports or explore other fields.