Business Development Sales Manager

Irena Sassone

Burlington, NC ***** +1-336-***-**** *********@*****.***

Authorized to work in the U.S. Willing to relocate Professional Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Director of Sales with 15+ years of experience in hospitality, B2B/B2C sales, business development, and team leadership. Proven track record of increasing revenue, building strong client relationships, and leading high-performing sales teams for global brands including Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. Skilled in strategic planning, contract negotiation, and CRM-driven sales management with a passion for driving growth through innovative strategies and trusted client partnerships.

Professional Experience

Director of Sales – Fairfield by Marriott, Whitsett, NC Feb 2025 – Present

• Led high-performing sales team achieving annual revenue targets.

• Developed and executed strategic sales plans expanding market share.

• Built strong client and C-level relationships, securing long-term partnerships.

• Negotiated contracts and managed large account portfolios.

• Implemented CRM analytics and sales forecasting models to optimize decisions. Sales Manager – Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Mebane, NC Dec 2021 – Feb 2025

• Increased revenue through LNR accounts, group sales, and sports contracts.

• Reestablished business with former clients, ensuring sustainable growth.

• Coordinated sales calls and built long-term client relationships.

• Secured group and event contracts with planners and corporate partners. Front Desk Agent – Hampton by Hilton, USA

Jul 2021 – Dec 2021

• Handled check-ins, reservations, and guest inquiries with professionalism.

• Upsold hotel services while ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction. Administrative Support Associate – Holiday Inn Express, NC Mar 2019 – Apr 2021

• Provided front desk and administrative support to hotel operations.

• Trained staff in guest services and hospitality standards. Sales Manager – Private Small Business, Croatia

2003 – 2008

• Increased regional sales by 15% through tailored client engagement.

• Hired, trained, and motivated sales teams to consistently exceed goals. Education

Associate Degree in Sales and Marketing

High School Diploma

Core Skills

Sales & Business Development (B2B & B2C) Revenue Growth & Market Expansion Hospitality & Hotel Management Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) – 10+ yrs Strategic Planning & Forecasting QuickBooks, Payroll, Accounting, Bookkeeping – 8+ yrs Contract Negotiation & Key Account Management Marketing & Social Media Tools CRM Systems (Salesforce, Opera, OnQ, Fosse) Administrative Support & Office Management Customer Service & Guest Relations Human Resources & Recruiting Team Leadership & Training Conflict Management & Negotiation

Contact this candidate