Sales Manager (Meetings & Conventions/Tourism)

ABOUT THE [SALES MANAGER] 

WHO WE ARE

Our vibrant team strives to unite partners to drive regional tourism and economic impact by connecting the world to our diverse communities, rich history, and spirit of innovation. Integrity, empowerment, transparency, community, passion, and empathy guide our workplace culture. With a firm commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, we strive to create an environment where voices are valued and respected. If this resonates with you, consider the role below:

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive Compensation
• Life, Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• 11 Paid Company Holidays Per Year, plus 1 Floating Holiday
• PTO Referral Bonus
• 17 PTO Days Per Year, Based on Full Months Projected to Work in The Calendar Year
• 401(K) With 4% Match
• Paid Parking, with 24/7 Access

JOB HIGHLIGHTS

POSITION PURPOSE:  The Sales Manager will actively promote metropolitan Detroit as a premier destination for conventions, meetings, and events. The individual will serve as an industry leader within the hospitality community on behalf of Visit Detroit. This position is accountable for the achievement of all critical success measures as defined by the Visit Detroit company mission and specific sales goals, including room nights, leads and site visit. A primary focus will be on securing business based on a specific market, region and peak room night allocation. 

Market: Corporate

Region: Midwest, West Coast

Peak Room Night: 10-499

LOCATION & SCHEDULE: 

• Full-time, Remote

WHAT WE REQUIRE:

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, related field or equivalent experience
• 4 years of group sales experience at the property level for a full-size hotel or in an above-property/market sales role for a hotel brand. Equivalent experience in a convention bureau or destination sales organization may also be considered.
• Knowledge and/or experience working in suburban metro area
• Must maintain a qualifying credit history to be eligible for a company-issued American Express card, which is required for business-related travel and client entertainment expenses.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license in state of residence.

PREFERRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in hotel, restaurant hospitality or marketing management
• 5+ years of group sales experience at the property level for a full-size hotel or in an above-property/market sales role for a hotel brand. Equivalent experience in a convention bureau or destination sales organization may also be considered.
• Knowledge and/or experience working in a Suburban metro area and Downtown City Centers

 HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE:

• Develop and implement sales strategies to attract conventions, meetings, and events to metropolitan Detroit. 
• Consistently meet or exceed established personal sales goals and demonstrate leadership in contributing to overall departmental team goals.
• Focus on creating tailored, compelling offerings that showcase metropolitan Detroit’s unique attributes as a premier event destination. 
• Participate in industry trade shows and promotional events to network and promote metropolitan Detroit as a destination. This role includes necessary business travel to represent the city and engage with potential clients.
• Plan and coordinate site visits for qualified planners to showcase key attractions, including our convention facilities, hotels, and other city highlights.
• Engage with potential clients through direct outreach, relationship building, and strategic presentations to secure bookings.
• Integrate Visit Detroit’s core brand principles into all sales presentations to effectively educate potential clients on the city's advantages as a premier business meeting destination, strengthening its market appeal and competitive position.
• Develop effective relationships with local contacts, our Suburban member/partner members, and stakeholders to maximize relationships, resulting in a successful sales effort while maintaining a high level of internal and external customer satisfaction.
• Utilize IDSS system to manage assigned accounts and client interactions, track leads, and ensure follow-up.
• Maintain a positive public image and build strong relationships with clients to ensure their satisfaction.
• Plan and document all sales trips, compile detailed reports, and track new business opportunities to drive growth.
• Participate in weekly sales meetings and business development sessions to stay updated on industry trends and maintain effective communication with local hospitality industry stakeholders.
• Effectively meet goals while working from a home office and adhering to the Visit Detroit Telecommuting Policy and Hybrid Work Policy.
• Complete payroll and expense reports efficiently and accurately in accordance with Visit Detroit’s policies and procedures. 
• Committed to partnering with Visit Detroit in embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into company culture and operations, and actively contributing to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and stakeholders. 

OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS:

• Maintain a working knowledge of all member facilities, attractions, and services available to customers planning meetings in the Metropolitan Detroit area.
• Coordinate with Customer/Partner Services to effectively serve groups booked by Visit Detroit.
• Complete and submit, on a timely basis, appropriate reports assigned by the Associate Vice President, Sales.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND COMPETENCIES:

• High level of knowledge, understanding, and proficiency of the sales process, specifically in the meetings and conventions industry
• Prior experience with a CRM or data management system is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• Skilled in organizing, prioritizing, and analyzing multiple assignments simultaneously.

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to clearly express thoughts, ideas, and concepts verbally and in writing in English.
• Strong ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple assignments.
• Creative and adaptable in fast-paced environments.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Consistently demonstrates professionalism in attitude, appearance, and behavior.
• Effective in both remote and in-person settings; proficient with video conferencing tools.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Available to work evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This position requires frequent weeknight and weekend assignments, often off-site, including occasional overnight stays. 
• Office work involves extended periods of sitting or working at a desk, utilizing repetitive typing motions on a computer or laptop, and reading text on a video display monitor.
• Ability to perform extensive standing and/or walking for work-related assignments and events.
• Ability to lift push, and or carry up to 40lbs. occasionally. 

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: 

• This role may require local and domestic travel for business needs and industry-related conferences. 

Visit Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer: 

We respect and seek individuals of a diverse background and do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Please ensure to regularly check your email spam folder for any communication from Visit Detroit to avoid missing important updates regarding your application status.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements and does not imply a contract. I understand that my employment is at-will and that either you or I can terminate my employment at any time, for any reason. No oral or written contractual commitments have been made concerning my employment.