Private Event Sales Account Executive

Job Summary

• Prospect new business via previous contacts, networking, trade publications, resource guides, database companies and cold calls. Target local hospitality industry, i.e. event planners, corporate planners, and direct corporate level decision makers to sell private events


• Conduct market research on potential new leads and develop tie-in opportunities within Ilitch Holdings business units to enhance value of sales packages


• Show available spaces to prospective clients and actively sell venues


• Develop client relationships and enhance existing relationships to maintain renewal business


• Work with in-house creative services department to create/develop and generate professional proposals and sales presentations by compiling necessary information such as research, data, photos, etc.    


• Provide weekly reports on sales activity/expenses and results to track own performance as well as event performance


• Manage and cultivate business relationships by attending OEI events and other functions


• Work with venue event managers to develop new, creative ways to package social events for increased sales


• Establish partnership opportunities with the premium sales staff to maximize event and revenue opportunities.


• Work cooperatively with sponsorship service representatives to provide event opportunities to existing clientele


• Assist in the development of internal special event series initiatives


• All other duties as assigned by the Director of Private Event Sales

• Performs other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality or related field


• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in corporate sales or marketing environment with evidence of solid business acumen and an understanding of how to manage sale opportunities.  


• High level of integrity with a professional, business oriented demeanor. 


• Creativity and ingenuity in developing successful sales strategies and have a working knowledge of the industry or community events along with a pulse of industry opportunities.


• Proven ability to initiate high-level contacts of prospective customer with strong persuasion and negotiation skills to close a sale.


• Evidence of ability to establish and maintain effective business relationships.  


• Demonstrated effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate with various levels of business units and venues or prospective customers.  


• Detail oriented with exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple, concurrent projects in a high paced environment.


• Demonstrated ability to analyze, formulate solutions and alternatives; and resolve issues in a timely manner


• Ability to work well in a team environment and effectively across business units and venues


• Proven level of exceptional guest service.


• Self-motivated with excellent time management skills and business/sales acumen


• Demonstrated computer proficiency including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and CRM skills.

• Experience working in a convention center, sports and entertainment venue or hotel in a hospitality sales function


• Prior experience with customer relationship management databases 

• Irregular and extended hours including nights, weekends, and holidays


• Frequent visual/auditory attention