At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales and marketing strategies to boost revenue and market share for a leading hotel.
- Company: Join the newly renovated Mercure & Ibis London Earls Court, a vibrant hotel in Southwest London.
- Benefits: Enjoy employee discounts, free meals, health insurance, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with exciting opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in the hospitality industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in hotel sales, strong communication skills, and a passion for business development.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Mercure & Ibis London Earls Court hotel is a newly renovated property in Southwest London. The property is a large conferencing & group hotel comprising a total of 508 keys, across two distinct brands within Accor, Mercure & Ibis. The London Suite is the main ballroom for all types of events, extremely versatile and plays a pivotal role in the property’s overall performance. The London Suite is divisible into nine separate meeting rooms, which when combined can be one of the largest pillar‑free spaces in London for events up to 1,200 guests.
The Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing will play a key role in driving proactive sales activity, revenue growth and market share across the Corporate, MICE, Groups and Leisure segments. Reporting to the Director of Sales & Marketing, this role will be responsible for identifying and converting new business opportunities, developing existing accounts, and actively generating demand for bedrooms, conference and event facilities, food & beverage outlets and other ancillary revenue streams.
A strong focus of the role will be on proactive sales, including client prospecting, sales calls, appointments, site visits, networking events, competitor research and local market activity. The Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing will be expected to build a strong sales pipeline, target key accounts and agencies, and ensure the hotel is front of mind for corporate, conference, events and group business in West London.
As a key member of the hotel’s commercial leadership team, the Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing will support the delivery of the hotel’s commercial strategy, strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, and help position the hotel as a leading destination for corporate, conference and events business. This is a hands‑on, field‑based commercial role suited to a confident and driven sales professional who enjoys being in front of clients, opening doors, creating opportunities and converting enquiries into profitable business. The successful candidate will be highly proactive, target‑focused and comfortable managing the full sales cycle from prospecting to conversion.
Key Responsibilities- Support the Director of Sales & Marketing in the development and implementation of the hotel's annual sales and marketing strategy.
- Act as a Department Head, providing leadership, coaching and support to the Sales & Events team.
- Develop and execute proactive sales plans across Corporate, Meetings & Events, MICE, Group Accommodation, Consortia and Leisure segments.
- Proactively identify and capitalise on new business opportunities to increase market share and revenue performance.
- Drive total hotel revenue through strategic selling of bedrooms, meeting rooms, conference facilities, catering services, food & beverage outlets and ancillary revenue streams.
- Collaborate closely with Revenue Management and operational departments to ensure commercial objectives are aligned with hotel performance goals.
- Deputise for the Director of Sales & Marketing when required.
- Drive occupancy, utilisation and profitability of the hotel's conference, meeting and event facilities.
- Proactively target corporate event planners, conference organisers, associations, government sectors, sporting organisations, exhibition organisers and international event agencies.
- Develop strategic relationships with Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs), Destination Management Companies (DMCs), Travel Management Companies (TMCs), event agencies and key intermediaries.
- Lead negotiations and proposals for large‑scale conferences, residential events, exhibitions, training programmes and multi‑day meetings.
- Work closely with the Meetings & Events team to maximise enquiry conversion, delegate rates, catering spend and repeat business.
- Identify opportunities to grow residential conference business through integrated accommodation and event packages.
- Position the hotel as a leading conference and events destination within West London and the wider London market.
- Generate and prospect new business opportunities from local, national and international markets.
- Build, manage and grow a portfolio of key corporate accounts, ensuring sustainable long‑term revenue growth.
- Conduct regular business reviews with clients to identify opportunities for increased market share and account development.
- Manage and grow existing consortia and negotiated corporate accounts.
- Negotiate and manage corporate RFPs and rate agreements through Cvent and Accor‑approved platforms.
- Develop and implement Account Development Plans for key clients and target accounts.
- Analyse account production and implement recovery plans for underperforming accounts.
- Maintain strong relationships with chambers of commerce, tourism boards, convention bureaux, local business organisations and strategic partners.
- Manage the full sales cycle from lead generation and prospecting through to negotiation, contracting, implementation and retention.
- Conduct face‑to‑face client meetings, presentations, site inspections and familiarisation visits.
- Represent the hotel at trade shows, networking events, industry exhibitions, sales missions and client entertainment activities both domestically and internationally.
- Organise and host client events, showcase evenings and promotional activities.
- Support hotel marketing initiatives and collaborate on campaigns that generate awareness and demand.
- Work closely with the Accor Sales Network to maximise opportunities from global and national account partnerships.
- Deliver agreed revenue, market share and activity targets across assigned market segments.
- Monitor market conditions, competitor activity, industry trends and local developments to identify opportunities and risks.
- Maintain a strong understanding of hotel budgets, forecasts, pricing strategies and commercial objectives.
- Prepare and present weekly and monthly sales reports, account production reviews, pipeline updates and business forecasts.
- Track sales performance against key performance indicators including appointments, prospecting activity, conversion rates, new business generation and account growth.
- Utilise market intelligence and sales systems to diversify the hotel's business mix and drive incremental revenue.
- Maintain accurate account information, sales activities and client records within ANAIS, Delphi, Cvent and other approved systems.
- Ensure all contracts, account plans, contact records and documentation are up to date and compliant.
- Produce reports detailing client interactions, sales appointments, presentations, familiarisation trips and business development activities.
- Manage sales collateral, promotional materials, client gifts and presentation resources.
- Ensure effective communication and collaboration with Reservations, Front Office and operational teams regarding new business opportunities and account performance.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation and commercial excellence.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, coaching and development of team members.
- Encourage cross‑departmental communication to ensure seamless delivery of client expectations.
- Actively participate in weekly, monthly and quarterly commercial and sales meetings.
- Promote a positive and professional working environment aligned with Accor values and hotel objectives.
- Act as a professional ambassador for the hotel, Accor and the brand at all times.
- Contribute to exceptional guest and client satisfaction through proactive engagement and personalised service.
- Support the resolution of guest and client concerns in a timely and professional manner.
- Maintain comprehensive knowledge of hotel facilities, services, local attractions and destination offerings.
- Ensure all client interactions reflect the highest standards of professionalism and hospitality.
- Comply with all company policies, brand standards and statutory requirements.
- Report any health, safety, security or operational concerns immediately to the appropriate manager.
- Demonstrate flexibility in supporting business needs, including participation in evening events, weekend activities and occasional travel where required.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as requested by the Director of Sales & Marketing or General Manager.
- Hotel Sales experience (Ideally from large volume led hotel with large M & E operations)
- Segments: MICE, Corporate & some Leisure
- Lanyon/CVENT, Delphi, ANAIS, Opera TMC & MICE distribution platforms
- Reporting & Prior team management
- Dynamic, Self-motivated, Enthusiastic
- Dependable and Adaptable
- Commercial Mind-set
- Self-Starter, resilient & appetite for business development
- Strategic and Process driven
- Organised with excellent communication
- Employee benefit card offering discounted rates at Accor worldwide
- Free and delicious meal breaks on duty
- Complimentary stays in UK and North Ireland
- Friends & Family discounts
- 50% food discounts in our restaurants
- Pension Scheme
- Health Insurance
- Eye Test Vouchers
- Staff Uniforms Provided
- Learning programs through our Academies
- Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world!
- Ability to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility activities, like Planet 21
Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing employer: AccorHotel
The Mercure & Ibis London Earls Court hotel is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a focus on employee growth, the hotel provides numerous learning opportunities through its Academies, alongside attractive benefits such as discounted stays, complimentary meals, and a supportive environment for personal development. Located in the heart of Southwest London, this newly renovated property not only boasts state-of-the-art facilities but also positions itself as a leading destination for corporate events, making it an exciting place for sales professionals to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like AccorHotel. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to AccorHotel
Don't be shy about reaching out to AccorHotel directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about AccorHotel and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at AccorHotel
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
