Job description:
this role is a director of leisure sales, focusing on business development. The primary responsibility involves developing and executing strategic sales plans to maximize revenue from leisure travelers.
the successful candidate will analyze market trends and competitor activity to identify new leisure sales opportunities. They will develop comprehensive sales strategies targeting leisure markets, including individual travelers, families, and group leisure bookings.
the director will also set sales goals, quotas, and performance metrics for the leisure sales team. They will build and maintain strong relationships with key leisure clients, including travel agents, tour operators, online travel agencies (otas), and corporate travel planners.
additionally, the director will conduct site visits and presentations to showcase the property's leisure offerings and amenities. They will negotiate contracts and agreements with clients to ensure mutually beneficial terms.
key responsibilities:
1. sales strategy development:
o analyze market trends and competitor activity to identify new leisure sales opportunities.
o develop and implement comprehensive sales strategies targeting leisure markets, which include individual travelers, families, and group leisure bookings.
o set sales goals, quotas, and performance metrics for the leisure sales team.
2. client relationship management:
o build and maintain strong relationships with key leisure clients, including travel agents, tour operators, online travel agencies (otas), and corporate travel planners.
o conduct site visits and presentations to showcase the property's leisure offerings and amenities.
o negotiate contracts and agreements with clients to ensure mutually beneficial terms.
3. team leadership:
o lead, motivate, and coach operations and sales assistants to achieve sales targets and performance goals.
o provide ongoing training and support to the broader team on sales techniques, product knowledge, and industry trends.
4. business development:
o identify and pursue new business partnerships with relevant organizations to generate additional leisure bookings.
o participate in industry trade shows and conferences to network and build relationships with potential clients.
5. reporting and analysis:
o monitor sales performance, track key metrics, and provide regular reports to senior management.
o analyze market data to identify opportunities for improvement and adjust sales strategies accordingly.
o be proficient in reporting and data analysis using tools such as agency 360, revintell, opera, and delphi.
required skills and qualifications:
* proven experience in leisure sales, preferably within the hospitality industry.
* strong leadership and team management skills.
* excellent communication and presentation skills.
* in-depth knowledge of the leisure travel market, including trends, distribution channels, and customer segments.
* proficiency in crm systems and sales forecasting tools.
* ability to build relationships and network effectively.
additional responsibilities:
* solicit new accounts and develop existing ones to exceed revenue goals through telephone solicitation, outside sales calls, site inspections, and written communication.
* prepare correspondence for customers, maintain internal booking reports, and ensure proper file maintenance.
* actively participate in scheduled sales meetings, training sessions, and other sales strategy-related meetings as required.
* conduct pre- and post-opening site inspections, and coordinate and host familiarization trips and activities.
* professionally represent the hotel at community and industry events.
* manage, qualify, and solicit all leisure accounts within the assigned territory and further develop a leisure database.
* create a 'need period' database for traditionally low occupancy dates and develop promotions and sales campaigns in partnership with the director of sales & marketing.
* conduct sales calls on key accounts and target new business opportunities. Organize sales blitzes in the assigned territory with the regional sales office and sister properties.
* represent the resort at appropriate travel industry trade shows and conferences, identify, and participate in networking channels to maximize exposure and opportunity.
* prepare and submit timely monthly reports to the director of sales & marketing, including the communication of market trends and competitive intelligence.
* attend sales meetings and leadership training sessions as required.
* carry out any other duties as required.