Convention Sales Manager

Job Description

Salary: $60-63K Annually

Position Title: Convention Sales Manager

Summary: Are you a strategic thinker with the drive to turn data into results - and the energy to bring sales opportunities to life? Do you take pride in promoting the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region (Lane County, OR) and aligning business opportunities with community values? Were looking for a systems-oriented Sales Manager who can balance research-driven sales with dynamic, people-focused outreach from working a trade show booth to building relationships through cold calls and direct sales.

Purpose of Position: The Sales Manager will grow group business for conventions, meetings and events requiring room nights by leveraging data insights and targeted sales strategies. This role effectively uses systems processes, research tools and lead databases to match need dates with events that fit our destinations values, while also thriving in client-facing environments creating connections, closing deals and representing our region with enthusiasm and professionalism.

Roles and Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development:

Monitor market trends, competitor activity, data and local needs to support sales efforts and share insights with marketing and services colleagues.

Develop sales priorities in support of organizational goals.

Manage sales leads and client inquiries for meetings requiring 10-200 peak room nights.

Build and maintain relationships with hotel/venue/industry partners and meeting planners.

Manage all stages of the sales process to prospect, qualify and book new convention business opportunities.

Evaluate and report results to measure success and inform future strategies.

Utilize lead-generating platforms and services (i.e., MINT, Cvent) to proactively prospect for conventions and meetings that fit into our hotel/venue need dates, align with community values, and provide value to planners and their attendees.

Attend industry trade shows, conventions, meetings and related events to represent the destination and secure new business.

Collaborate with the Convention Services Manager to plan and execute client site visits and familiarization tours.

Deliver presentations to service clubs, professional associations and other large groups.

Sales Program Management:

Assist the convention department program lead with strategy and budget recommendations.

Manage program expenses within approved budgets.

Prepare and present written and oral proposals and reports.

Track sales statistics, analyze performance and make data-driven recommendations.

Maintain company, contacts and communication records in Customer Relationship Management software (CRM).

Achieve annual performance objectives, including room night and revenue targets.

Other duties as assigned

Position Preferred Qualifications:

We will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education and experience that enables the applicant to perform the job successfully.

Experience in sales (business to business or business to consumer) or guest services in hospitality or a related field.

Strong research and analytical skills.

Proven ability to develop and maintain client relationships.

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and willingness to learn custom software programs. Prior experience with CRM software is a plus.

Strong interpersonal and presentation skills to professionally represent the destination at meetings, events and client interactions.

Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and the ability to engage with diverse audiences and communities when representing the destination.

Ability to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Ability to transport and set up trade show materials (typically under 35 lbs).

Valid Oregon drivers license and a clean driving record.

Travel Lane County is happy to discuss accommodations that may be needed during the interview process.

Compensation/Hours:

Full-time, salaried exempt position with occasional evening, weekend and overnight travel.

Benefits include medical and dental insurance, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave.

Employer contribution to SEP/IRA after two years of employment.

This position reports to the Executive Vice President.

If you are interested in applying please make sure you submit a cover letter and your resume.

Full-time