At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the sales team to drive revenue growth in the hotel sector.
- Company: Join a prestigious hotel group focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and professional development in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career advancement and networking at industry events.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on sales strategy and enhance guest experiences across luxury hotels.
- Qualifications: Proven sales leadership experience in the upmarket hotel sector is essential.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Description
Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will develop and lead execution of the company’s sales strategy to deliver profitable revenue growth across all key market sectors with a particular focus on MICE, corporate travel and group business. Effective account management of key clients, agents and partners, will be essential in recognising and developing revenue opportunities as will an ability to drive residential leisure, food & beverage & health & wellness revenue. Strong people management and communication skills will be required to support the development of a high performance & proactive sales culture across the company that in turn will provide for a superlative guest experience. Experience of working in the hotel sector will be essential.
Core Responsibilities
- Lead, inspire, manage and mentor the Sales and Revenue teams for the group, ensuring a proactive sales culture with clear goals and targets.
- Support the Directors and property General Managers in delivering commercial success.
- Set and control the annual Sales Budget.
- Develop and oversee implementation of strategic Sales & Revenue business plans for all areas of the business.
Ensure that they are designed to deliver the company’s short-, medium- and long-term commercial objectives achieve budgeted revenue targets with the required commercial returns.
- Provide input & insight into the annual Revenue & Market Mix Budgets to ensure that they are designed to deliver achievable year on year growth.
- Drive strategic sales initiatives, business development and partnership management to grow revenue across market segments, enhance the guest experience and enhance profitability of the group.
Identify new business opportunities through market intelligence and partnerships across key segments.
- Ensure effective training focused on negotiation and conversion strategies designed to maximise contracted business and develop client, agent and booker loyalty.
- Develop proactive relationships with key partnerships and clients, including but not limited to Key corporate accounts, MICE Agents, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), MIA & AIEA.
- Oversee the effective management of the company’s database.
- In conjunciton with the marketing team ensure that the company website, third party sites and collateral are designed to maximise revenue generation including taking advantage of technology advances.
- Determine appropriate Pricing, Yield and Rate strategies for all market segments to support the individual hotel‘s specific needs, exploit their strengths, maximise revenues and deliver required profit margins thus driving commercial success for the business.
- Analyse market trends, competitor activity and commercial insights to ensure a competitive and innovative approach. Drive direct bookings and effective distribution strategies.
- Investigate & evaluate opportunities to expand and grow the existing business.
- Identify & evaluate sales events, roadshows & exhibitions both in the UK & overseas that will deliver tangible returns by engaging key bookers & agents.
- Represent the company by attending and supporting site visits, presentations, networking and industry events, to aid generation of new business & support customer retention.
- Closely monitor market trends, competitors and market research, utilising findings to inform strategy, improve the company’s performance and react to market trends.
- Provide effective reporting of all Sales activity to ensure clear measurement of outcome and return on Investment.
- Oversee the recruitment of key Sales related personnel across the group.
- Identify training and development needs within the Sales team, providing requisite support, mentoring, direction, motivation and measuring of performance.
- Place of Work
Based at Ashdown Park Hotel, RH18 5JR, with regular visits to the two other group hotels, The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne & Tylney Hall, Hampshire.
UK travel for sales appointments & events will also be required as will attendance at relevant overseas events.
- Key Skills & Experience
- Senior sales leadership role within the upmarket Hotel sector within properties with significant Meetings & Events spaces, Food & Beverage and Spa & Wellness facilities
- A strong communicator, highly organised with a clear understanding of the hospitality industry including the luxury market
- Appreciation of working for an independently owned company
- Experience of working in a group position with an awareness of the competing demands involved
- Clear understanding of the customer journey and need to deliver a consistently positive experience
- Able to develop a deliverable and measurable Sales plan for all sectors of the business
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Director of Sales employer: Elite Hotels
Elite Hotels is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in the stunning surroundings of Ashdown Forest while leading a dedicated team in maintaining our expansive estate. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative work culture, we encourage our staff to engage in various hotel activities and special events, ensuring a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Our commitment to high standards and guest satisfaction makes us a desirable workplace for those seeking meaningful employment in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Sales
✨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 Elite Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Elite Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Elite Hotels 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 Director of Sales
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 Elite Hotels 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 Elite Hotels
✨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!
