National Sales Manager

SUMMARY

As a key member of the Positively Cleveland’s Sales Team, the National Sales Manager will be a creative, energetic and knowledgeable professional who is accountable for Positively Cleveland’s mission to promote and sell the destination to increase convention and visitor business while maximizing the economic impact on the area. Current specific markets for this position are State Association, Social to include Hobby/Arts and Culture and all Meetings 150 Peak room nights or less. These specific markets are subject to change.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Meet established goals for monthly, quarterly and annual quotas in leads and bookings
• Solicit new and maintain existing accounts on Convention Sales activities
• Build relationships with and service existing accounts in an effort to rebook business
• Coordinate intra-city hotel and convention center negotiations
• Maintain high visibility for Positively Cleveland through professional and trade association memberships
• Make personal presentations to boards of directors, meeting planners, key decision makers, local contacts, convention delegates and or site selection committees as needed in order to secure leads and or book business  
• Represent Positively Cleveland at social events, conventions, openings and galas, as required
• Generate convention center and hotel bookings from assigned market segments
• Implement ongoing strategic prospecting plan that includes identifying, recruiting and encouraging local community contacts and representatives of regional, national and international organizations to hold future meetings, conventions and trade shows in Cleveland.  Secure, prioritize and work on targeted prospect lists, establish and exceed weekly prospecting goals
• Create and maintain professional relationships with clients
• Issue comprehensive sales leads to Positively Cleveland members and conduct corresponding detailed follow up and communication with participating, bidding members.  Act as a primary liaison with the customer and bidding properties throughout the process
• Coordinate all aspects of bid, including proposals, maximizing resources, incorporating market specific facts and incorporating creativity to give Cleveland the competitive edge
• Maintain a thorough working knowledge of the member facilities, attractions and services available in the area to customers and act as liaison between those entities and the customer
• Coordinate and conduct site inspections, showcasing facilities and attractions
• Secure qualified customers and assist with the development of and participation in FAMS
• Attend tradeshows, sales missions, networking meetings and local meetings to solicit convention business
• Maintain familiarity with competing areas and issues that impact Positively Cleveland ability to market Cleveland effectively
• Represent Positively Cleveland with assigned industry groups to generate interest in Cleveland as a destination or promote attendance at events already scheduled
• Coordinate with the Convention Services Department to effectively service groups scheduled to meet in the area
• Pre-convention meetings with customers and appropriate representatives of local organizations involved in servicing the group
• Distribute brochures and equipment as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Willingness and ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on client and office demands
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel out of area to perform sales blitzes, attend tradeshows, conventions and various meetings
• Willingness to travel by air when required
• Energetic and outgoing
• Understands "team" concept
• Carries a professional image

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

A minimum of three to five years experience in hotel and/or convention bureau sales is preferred. Exceptional customer service skills with a track record of exceeding expectations; proven relationship building skills; sales account management experience; success with multi-tasking; exceptional organizational skills; ability to take initiative and work independently; proven accountability; goal oriented; ability to anticipate needs and exceed expectations; degree from an accredited institution in hospitality management or marketing is preferred.  Demonstrated written and oral presentation skills.  Working knowledge of computer systems and related software applications, specifically Microsoft Office. Knowledge of Simpleview CRM a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Viewing computer monitors
• Sitting
• Standing for community functions, presentations, trade shows, etc.
• Traveling to other locations to represent Positively Cleveland and represent Cleveland as a destination
• Be able to lift up to 25 lbs.
 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Office environment; moderate noise.