Sales Manager

Aloft Hotel Silicon Valley

Seeking an experienced Sales Manager with a proven track record in group and catering sales for the 172-room, newly-renovated Aloft Hotel Silicon Valley (formerly W Silicon Valley) in Newark, California.  This person must be outgoing, self-motivated, detail oriented, organized and efficient with the ability to multi-task.  The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of the Silicon Valley lodging market and boutique hotel environment.

Job Description:

• Regularly conduct outside sales calls to solicit new group and catering clients and mine additional business from existing clients
• Develop and manage new account relationships and nurture existing accounts
• Reply promptly to group and catering leads and opportunities
• Assist in the management of third-party websites and social media programs
• Work with Starwood’s Global Sales office and Field Marketing representatives
• Coordinate with the Food and Beverage Department in the planning and execution of group food and beverage functions and catering events
• Follows up on the progress of groups books, such as room night pick up, rooming lists, cut off dates, all activity and correspondence with clients               
• Regularly update sales-related reports and systems
• Prepare correspondence to group and catering clients and prospects
• Maintain organized sales files
• Coordinate with other departments within the hotel to provide quality guest service and  a positive guest experience
• Regularly visit and shop the competition to stay abreast of their rate strategies, clientele and any changes in facilities, services and market position
• Compile lists of prospective clients for use as sales leads based on information from newspapers, business directories and other sources.
• Complete coordination of the Sales group functions; accurate and timely preparation of detailed Sales Contracts and Group Resumes as necessary to ensure a common quality understanding of what the client is to receive in terms of products and services.  Review function contracts prior to distribution to client and hotel staff.
• Follows company policies and procedures and is able to effectively communicate them to subordinates.

Requirements:

Candidate must possess the following:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• Two to four years previous hotel sales experience including experience in group sales
• Proven ability to meet and exceed sales booking goals
• Evaluate a potential piece of business for profitability and overall benefit to the Hotel.
• Proven track record to uncover new business through prospecting and develop strong relationships with current clients
• Strong knowledge of travel and hotel industry, current market trends and economic factors
• Represent hotel in community affairs and industry related events
• Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication skills
• Strong skill in the development and delivery of sales presentations
• General knowledge of revenue management strategies
• Computer knowledge in Windows environment and previous experience with automated property management system
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as necessary

Note: Employment is subject to a comprehensive background check.