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Stephen Tihal
Partnership Marketing at National Hockey League
Professional Background
Stephen Tihal is a seasoned professional in partnership marketing, particularly within the sports industry, with a robust career primarily at one of the most prestigious organizations in North America — the National Hockey League (NHL). In his current role as Manager of Partnership Marketing at the NHL, Stephen applies his expertise in building and nurturing strategic partnerships that enhance the fan experience and drive revenue. He plays a pivotal role in formulating marketing strategies that leverage partnerships, ensuring mutual benefit for both the league and its partners.
Prior to his current managerial position, Stephen excelled as an Account Executive in Partnership Marketing at the NHL, where he effectively contributed to the growth and success of various partnership initiatives and programs. His experience within the organization has afforded him a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of sports marketing, branding, and engagement.
Before joining the NHL, Stephen honed his skills at the Mississauga Steelheads Hockey Club, a prominent Junior A ice hockey team in Canada. He started as a Sponsorship and Ticket Sales Intern, where he gained hands-on experience in sales and marketing strategies. His impressive performance led to a position as Sponsorship & Sales Coordinator, where he continued to build relationships with corporate sponsors and ensured the successful execution of partnership agreements.
Additionally, Stephen has experience in talent acquisition as an Executive Recruiter at CQ Search Group, where he developed valuable interpersonal and negotiation skills. Moreover, his role as Gameday Promotions Coordinator at the Sudbury Wolves Hockey Club allowed him to blend his passion for sports with promotional activities, contributing to the overall fan experience on game days.
Education and Achievements
Stephen Tihal earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Laurentian University/Université Laurentienne, where he developed a strong foundation in business principles that he would later apply to his professional endeavors in the sports marketing field. His educational background equipped him with critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of market dynamics, all of which are essential for success in partnership marketing.
Throughout his career, Stephen has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to professional development and excellence. His ability to forge strong connections with corporate partners has not only benefited the organizations he has worked for but also enhanced the league's overall marketing strategies. By leveraging his extensive experience in the sports industry, Stephen Tihal has established himself as a dynamic and influential figure in partnership marketing.
Achievements
Stephen’s career is marked by significant achievements and milestones. At the NHL, he has played an instrumental role in launching innovative marketing initiatives that have increased brand visibility and partner engagement. His adept handling of high-profile sponsorship deals and event partnerships has led to successful collaborations that resonate with fans and enhance the NHL brand. Furthermore, his contributions to optimizing partnership performance metrics have resulted in enhanced strategic approaches and higher revenue outcomes.
In his earlier roles with the Mississauga Steelheads, Stephen displayed an exceptional ability to attract and maintain relationships with key sponsors, directly contributing to the team’s financial stability and growth. His strategic planning in ticket sales and sponsorship programs garnered positive feedback and reinforced the Steelheads’ reputation as a reputable junior hockey club.
In addition to his professional roles, Stephen maintains a proactive approach towards networking and staying involved in the sports marketing community. He frequently engages in workshops, seminars, and industry conferences which allow him to stay ahead of trends and best practices in partnership marketing.
Personal Attributes
Stephen Tihal is known for his strong interpersonal skills, analytical mindset, and creative problem-solving abilities. He is passionate about hockey and is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for fans, through the strategic development of partnerships. His enthusiasm and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to any organization he is part of.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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