Senior Group Sales Manager

SENIOR SALES MANAGER at Destination Geneva National

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Sales Manager to join our team, cultivating and maintaining relationships with corporate clients, associations, and SMERF groups, with the goal of driving room bookings and banquet business. This is a dynamic role, which may require assisting with other types of sales leads as dictated by the Director of Sales & Marketing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Develop and implement strategic sales plans to target corporate, association, and SMERF groups, with a focus on maximizing revenue during non-peak periods.
Identify and prospect potential clients, including corporations, associations, and organizations, to generate new business opportunities.
Build and nurture long-term relationships with existing clients, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and repeat bookings.
Collaborate with the marketing team to develop campaigns targeted towards group bookings, promotional materials, website updates, and third-party representation.
Conduct site tours and presentations to showcase the resort's facilities and services to potential clients.
Represent the property at various trade shows and events to sell the property to meeting planners. Host FAM trips on-property to introduce the property firsthand to meeting planners.
Negotiate contracts and agreements with clients, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for both parties.
Coordinate with other departments, including banquet services, catering, and reservations, to ensure seamless execution of group events.
Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and industry developments to identify opportunities for business growth.
Prepare weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports and updates on sales performance, pipeline status, and revenue projections for management review.
Represent the resort at industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to enhance brand visibility and generate leads.
Partner with the local Chamber of Commerce on lead generation and promotion of the properties.
Coordinate with Revenue Manager to maximize revenues throughout the resort.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in sales, preferably in the hospitality industry with a focus on group business.
Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets and driving revenue growth.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively build rapport and negotiate with clients. Strong relationships with Chicago-area meeting planners a plus.
Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Knowledge of CRM software and sales tracking tools preferred, specifically Agilysys and Excel.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
Passion for hospitality and a genuine desire to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Computer Keyboard
Professionally Interact Verbally & Online
Occasional Light lifting & event set-up