Senior Sales Manager

GET TO KNOW THE HOTEL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND:

The Hotel at the University of Maryland (The Hotel) is a AAA 4-Diamond independent property located directly across the street from the main campus of the University of Maryland. The Hotel is a market leader in service and guest experience and the team is focused on delivering highly personalized service. The Hotel has 297 rooms with 24 suites and over 45,000 sq. ft. of event space handling events from 10 to 1,500. The Hotel’s focus on culture creates an environment for team members to thrive and provides opportunities to grow responsibility and advance their careers which is part of our Southern Difference!

 WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

The Hotel at The University of Maryland is seeking a dynamic, engaging, experienced association sales professional that has demonstrated the ability to pursue, build and fortify relationships in the association community. The ideal leader is an aggressive prospector with market-leading closing skills and the ability to lead by example working within a strong and outgoing team environment.

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU:

• Live an active engagement in the sales process from prospecting to closing
• Negotiate guest room rates and/or hotel services within approved booking guidelines
• Accurately produce and review all sales contracts, rate agreements
• Work closely with other hotel departments to facilitate services agreed upon by the sales office and prospective clients
• Actively prospect & qualify new business including outside direct sales and out of market travel from time to time
• Arrange and conduct special events, site inspections and off-site presentations for potential clients
• Participate in appropriate organizations, networking events and attend trade shows per market segment
• Produce monthly sales related reports & sales forecasts for assigned areas of responsibility
• Track activities in Hotel's sales and catering system including all notes, actions and details related to sales activities
• Acknowledge all guests and respond promptly to their needs, however busy and whatever time of day
• Achieve monthly sales goals
• Ensure unresolved incidents are reported to Manager/Supervisor
• Familiarity with all hotel services/features and local attractions/activities to respond to guest inquiries accurately
• Contribute to the team's success by accomplishing tasks and assisting with projects as needed
• Maintain knowledge and compliance with departmental policies, service procedures, and standards
• Strong ability to work independently
• Availability during peak operating times, i.e.: Weekends, Holidays and Special Events
• Work as a team member to ensure our guests have the best possible experience
• Attend department meetings and training sessions as necessary
• Support Southern Management's Mission, Vision, and Values
• Comply with all Southern Management's policies and procedures
• Perform various other duties as assigned by Manager
• Lead by example, be a positive example for team in action and attitude
• Delegate work as appropriate, clearly stating objectives and time-line requirements to appropriate departmental team members as appropriate
• Work collaboratively with others to analyze and improve work processes
• Positive interaction with all levels of management and vendors

JOB KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Professional appearance
• Knowledge of hotel and food & beverage operations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Delphi experience is a plus
• Organized and detail oriented
• Excellent time management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Sound leadership and managerial skills
• Ability to work effectively in stressful, high-pressure situations while maintaining composure and guest satisfaction
• Technical knowledgeable and competency in necessary systems and software:
  - [Outlook, Word, Excel, Delphi, etc.]

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 4+ years demonstrated hotel sales experience, preferably working within association markets
• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associates or bachelor's degree in business or relevant field preferred