Rich Franklin
About Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin serves as the Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Oak View Group, Acrisure Arena, and Coachella Valley Firebirds, a position he has held since 2023. He has a strong background in sports marketing, sponsorship sales, and event management, supported by his education from the University of Michigan and Northwestern University.
Work at Oak View Group
Rich Franklin serves as the Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Oak View Group, Acrisure Arena, and the Coachella Valley Firebirds. He has held this position since 2023, operating from Palm Desert, California. In this role, he is responsible for developing and managing corporate partnerships that enhance the organization's engagement with sponsors and the community.
Education and Expertise
Rich Franklin has a diverse educational background. He studied Communications and Advertising at the University of Washington, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from 1984 to 1988. He also completed an Online Professional Development Course in Sports Marketing at Northwestern University and another in Successful Negotiation at the University of Michigan's Stephen M. Ross School of Business, both in 2020. These studies have equipped him with skills relevant to corporate partnerships and sponsorship sales.
Background in Business and Sponsorship
Rich Franklin has a strong background in small business startup and ownership, showcasing his entrepreneurial skills. His experience extends to event and sponsor activation management, where he has demonstrated expertise in executing successful sponsorship engagements. Previously, he worked at the Portland Winterhawks Hockey Club as Vice President of Ticket Sales & Operations and Corporate Partnerships from 2011 to 2021.
Community Involvement
Rich Franklin has contributed to community service through his role as a former board member of Easterseals Oregon. His involvement in nonprofit governance reflects his commitment to community engagement and support for various initiatives aimed at helping individuals with disabilities.
Podcast Co-Host
Rich Franklin co-hosts The Inches Sponsorship Sales Podcast, which focuses on sports sponsorship sales strategies and insights. This platform allows him to share his knowledge and experience in the field, contributing to the professional development of others in the industry.