Development Director Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Kentucky
Development director roles in Kentucky span nonprofits, universities, and healthcare systems, with employers like the University of Kentucky, Norton Healthcare, and Louisville-based foundations actively hiring. Most positions are concentrated in Louisville and Lexington, where fundraising and institutional advancement teams regularly recruit internationally experienced candidates for senior leadership.
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Get Access To All JobsJOB SUMMARY
The Senior Director, International Sales & Business Development is responsible for developing and executing international sales and business development strategies that expand the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby brand across targeted global markets. This role drives international revenue growth through strategic partnerships, market expansion, and relationship management with global clients, agencies, and high-net-worth individuals.
Working closely with the SVP, Sales & Strategy and executive leadership at Churchill Downs Racetrack and Churchill Downs Incorporated, this position identifies new business opportunities, develops market-specific growth strategies, and represents Churchill Downs internationally to strengthen brand awareness and deliver long-term international ticket sales growth as well as commercial / partnership revenue expansion.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
International Business Development & Market Expansion
- Lead international business development initiatives to drive revenue growth in ticketing and partnerships, and expand the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby brand.
- Identify and evaluate new international market opportunities through market research and competitive analysis.
- Develop and execute market expansion plans, including market entry strategies, product positioning, and growth objectives.
- Identify opportunities to increase international market presence and long-term business growth.
International Sales & Revenue Growth
- Develop and execute international sales strategies that achieve revenue and pipeline objectives.
- Build and manage relationships with international clients, agencies, and high-net-worth individuals.
- Drive lead generation, sales campaigns, and business development initiatives across target markets.
- Provide accurate sales forecasting, pipeline reporting, and performance analysis.
Strategic Partnerships & Market Representation
- Cultivate strategic partnerships with international agencies, distributors, and key stakeholders.
- Represent Churchill Downs at international trade shows, conferences, and industry events.
- Foster cross-cultural relationships that strengthen the Churchill Downs brand and support market expansion.
Business Operations & Market Execution
- Execute international sales and business development initiatives that expand the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs brand while driving international ticket sales and commercial revenue growth.
- Adapt sales strategies and business approaches to meet the cultural, regulatory, and logistical needs of each market.
- Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, corporate policies, and risk management practices.
- Monitor performance and recommend opportunities to improve operational effectiveness and market growth.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REGULATORY
Ability to obtain and maintain a Kentucky racing license and successfully complete all applicable background check requirements.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Business, International Business, Sports Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.
- 8–10 years of progressive experience in international sales, business development, strategic partnerships, or a related commercial leadership role.
- Demonstrated success developing new markets, driving revenue growth, and managing complex international sales pipelines.
- Experience negotiating and managing strategic partnerships with global clients, agencies, or distributors.
- Experience working with premium clientele, luxury hospitality, sports, entertainment, or destination marketing organizations preferred.
- Strong understanding of international business practices, market expansion strategies, and cross-cultural relationship management.
- Experience utilizing CRM platforms, sales analytics, and forecasting tools to drive business performance.
- Ability to travel internationally and work evenings, weekends, and major events as business needs require.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strategic business development and relationship management
- International sales and market expansion expertise
- Executive presence with exceptional communication and negotiation skills
- Strong analytical, financial, and business acumen
- Cross-cultural communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to influence, collaborate, and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM platforms, and sales reporting tools
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
- Extended periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Regular use of a keyboard and mouse for typing and navigating software.
- Viewing a computer screen for prolonged periods.
- Ability to manipulate paperwork, including filing, sorting, and organizing.
- Moving within the office environment to attend meetings, use office equipment, or interact with colleagues.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies or paperwork (up to 20 pounds).
- Speaking and listening to colleagues and clients in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing.
- Working in a climate-controlled office environment with moderate noise levels.
- Performing repetitive tasks such as data entry or document preparation.
- Working under artificial lighting conditions typical of an office environment, which may include fluorescent or LED lighting.
- Role is onsite five days a week at the Louisville, KY Churchill Downs Racetrack.
- Evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required during racing meets, Derby season, and international travel.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
JOB SUMMARY
The Senior Director, International Sales & Business Development is responsible for developing and executing international sales and business development strategies that expand the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby brand across targeted global markets. This role drives international revenue growth through strategic partnerships, market expansion, and relationship management with global clients, agencies, and high-net-worth individuals.
Working closely with the SVP, Sales & Strategy and executive leadership at Churchill Downs Racetrack and Churchill Downs Incorporated, this position identifies new business opportunities, develops market-specific growth strategies, and represents Churchill Downs internationally to strengthen brand awareness and deliver long-term international ticket sales growth as well as commercial / partnership revenue expansion.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
International Business Development & Market Expansion
- Lead international business development initiatives to drive revenue growth in ticketing and partnerships, and expand the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby brand.
- Identify and evaluate new international market opportunities through market research and competitive analysis.
- Develop and execute market expansion plans, including market entry strategies, product positioning, and growth objectives.
- Identify opportunities to increase international market presence and long-term business growth.
International Sales & Revenue Growth
- Develop and execute international sales strategies that achieve revenue and pipeline objectives.
- Build and manage relationships with international clients, agencies, and high-net-worth individuals.
- Drive lead generation, sales campaigns, and business development initiatives across target markets.
- Provide accurate sales forecasting, pipeline reporting, and performance analysis.
Strategic Partnerships & Market Representation
- Cultivate strategic partnerships with international agencies, distributors, and key stakeholders.
- Represent Churchill Downs at international trade shows, conferences, and industry events.
- Foster cross-cultural relationships that strengthen the Churchill Downs brand and support market expansion.
Business Operations & Market Execution
- Execute international sales and business development initiatives that expand the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs brand while driving international ticket sales and commercial revenue growth.
- Adapt sales strategies and business approaches to meet the cultural, regulatory, and logistical needs of each market.
- Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, corporate policies, and risk management practices.
- Monitor performance and recommend opportunities to improve operational effectiveness and market growth.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REGULATORY
Ability to obtain and maintain a Kentucky racing license and successfully complete all applicable background check requirements.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Business, International Business, Sports Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.
- 8–10 years of progressive experience in international sales, business development, strategic partnerships, or a related commercial leadership role.
- Demonstrated success developing new markets, driving revenue growth, and managing complex international sales pipelines.
- Experience negotiating and managing strategic partnerships with global clients, agencies, or distributors.
- Experience working with premium clientele, luxury hospitality, sports, entertainment, or destination marketing organizations preferred.
- Strong understanding of international business practices, market expansion strategies, and cross-cultural relationship management.
- Experience utilizing CRM platforms, sales analytics, and forecasting tools to drive business performance.
- Ability to travel internationally and work evenings, weekends, and major events as business needs require.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strategic business development and relationship management
- International sales and market expansion expertise
- Executive presence with exceptional communication and negotiation skills
- Strong analytical, financial, and business acumen
- Cross-cultural communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to influence, collaborate, and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM platforms, and sales reporting tools
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
- Extended periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Regular use of a keyboard and mouse for typing and navigating software.
- Viewing a computer screen for prolonged periods.
- Ability to manipulate paperwork, including filing, sorting, and organizing.
- Moving within the office environment to attend meetings, use office equipment, or interact with colleagues.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies or paperwork (up to 20 pounds).
- Speaking and listening to colleagues and clients in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing.
- Working in a climate-controlled office environment with moderate noise levels.
- Performing repetitive tasks such as data entry or document preparation.
- Working under artificial lighting conditions typical of an office environment, which may include fluorescent or LED lighting.
- Role is onsite five days a week at the Louisville, KY Churchill Downs Racetrack.
- Evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required during racing meets, Derby season, and international travel.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Development Director Job Roles in Kentucky
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Search Development Director Jobs in KentuckyDevelopment Director Jobs in Kentucky: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies and organizations sponsor visas for development directors in Kentucky?
Kentucky's largest visa-sponsoring employers for development directors tend to be universities, hospital systems, and established nonprofits. The University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Norton Healthcare, and regional foundations in Louisville and Lexington have histories of sponsoring H-1B visa and other employment-based visas for senior advancement and fundraising professionals. Larger institutions with dedicated HR and legal teams are generally better positioned to manage the sponsorship process.
Which visa types are most common for development director roles in Kentucky?
The H-1B is the most common visa category for development director positions in Kentucky, as the role typically requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, communications, business, or public administration. O-1 visas are an option for candidates with an extraordinary record of fundraising achievement. Candidates already holding TN visa, L-1 visa, or E-3 visa status may also be eligible if transferring from a qualifying employer.
Which cities in Kentucky have the most development director sponsorship opportunities?
Louisville and Lexington account for the majority of development director openings in Kentucky. Louisville's concentration of healthcare systems, arts organizations, and regional nonprofits makes it the primary market, while Lexington's presence of the University of Kentucky and associated research institutions generates consistent demand. Smaller cities like Bowling Green and Covington occasionally post senior development roles but with considerably less frequency.
How to find development director visa sponsorship jobs in Kentucky?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international candidates seeking visa sponsorship and filters development director roles in Kentucky by sponsorship history, making it easier to identify employers who have previously filed for employment-based visas. Rather than sorting through thousands of general postings, you can focus on organizations in Louisville and Lexington that have a demonstrated track record of sponsoring senior nonprofit and institutional advancement professionals.
Are there state-specific or role-specific factors that affect visa sponsorship for development directors in Kentucky?
Development director positions in Kentucky are generally classified as specialty occupations under H-1B rules, but employers must demonstrate the role requires a specific degree field, not just any bachelor's degree. Kentucky's nonprofit sector leans heavily on relationship-based fundraising experience, so employers may scrutinize whether an international candidate's background aligns with local donor communities. The University of Kentucky and University of Louisville also function as H-1B cap-exempt institutions, which can simplify the sponsorship timeline for roles based there.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored development director jobs in Kentucky?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.