Throughout the off-season, the Ontario Hockey League will be spotlighting a member from each of our teams’ front office staffs as we look to highlight those working “Behind the Scenes” of the day-to-day operations.
Working with the Spirit for over 20 years, the newest edition features Saginaw Spirit Vice President of Sales, Kae Pankow.
KP: I’m Kae Pankow, Vice President of Sales for the Saginaw Spirit. I have been with the team all 23 years in which my first role was in group sales. I slowly made the transition into corporate sales which lead to me taking the role of Vice President of Sales 14 years ago.
What are your responsibilities as the Saginaw Spirit’s Vice President of Sales?
KP: As Vice President of Sales, I oversee all sales aspects for the team including corporate accounts and ticketing, such as, season tickets, Adopt-A-School packages and group outings. We pride ourselves on the support from our corporate clients backing our specialty nights in which we help non-profits raise money for a multitude of different causes such as; Shocks and Saves, Hockey for the Homeless, Pink Out, Mental Health and many more. Corporate sales are the top component of our team’s revenue with our renewal rate each year being between 93-95%.
What led you to your current role?
KP: I believe that my relationships that I have built along with the experience in all aspects of sales with the team. I am originally from Saginaw and mix that with my 23 years with the team, the relationships I have built helped lead to my current position. The Great Lakes Bay region has an extraordinary base of people and businesses that are very loyal to the Saginaw Spirit and I’m grateful for all of the relationships I’ve built over the years.
You’ve been with the Spirit since it’s inception in 2002, what has been the most fulfilling part about seeing the organization grow?
KP: Witnessing the original vision of our franchise come to fruition by encompassing the entire Great Lakes Bay Region. Knowing that, along with my colleagues, we are making a difference and providing an entertaining experience while changing lives through funds raised on our specialty nights. Seeing the breast cancer survivors being honored to knowing our Shocks and Saves and Mental Health nights have saved lives makes the long hours of the season well worth it. This year we have seen tremendous growth in season tickets and sponsorships, which is partly due to hosting the 2024 Memorial Cup and how good our team is on the ice. Craig Goslin has also been my mentor since day one and his practices have made me a better sales person.
The Spirit is hosting the 2024 Memorial Cup, what are you most looking forward to showing CHL fans?
KP: Showcasing the beauty and amenities the Great Lakes Bay Region has to offer. The support of the entire region is what allowed us to bid on the Memorial Cup and to highlight our area is extremely exciting. The Memorial Cup will prove that our area is a great place to live, work and play.
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