Business Development Manager

This venue is the premier destination on the south coast for international cricket, music, and leisure. They are dedicated to delivering top-tier sporting and entertainment experiences through their expanding events portfolio. They proudly host matches for various cricket teams, including international fixtures, and amazing live music events with a capacity of 30,000. Additionally, they host annual fireworks and drone shows. This is an exciting time to join as they prepare to be a host venue for the Women's Cricket World Cup in 2026 and their first-ever Men's Ashes Test in 2027.

My client is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to lead their sales efforts in hospitality and match-day advertising. As a people person, the ideal candidate will confidently interact with a variety of clients, both over the phone and in person. Comfortable in networking environments, you will represent the organisation at local conferences and events to showcase hospitality and advertising opportunities. On match days, you will proactively assist the events team to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Standard hours are Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm, with occasional requirements to work on match days or events. They do offer flexibility around start and finish times.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively present and sell hospitality and advertising opportunities to new and existing clients.
• Build the client base with targeted, informed business development initiatives.
• Lead face-to-face meetings with prospective clients and conduct showcase tours of the venue.
• Attend commercial and networking events to represent the organisation, increasing awareness and attracting new business.
• Provide exceptional account management to the client base in a timely, professional manner.
• Manage the day-to-day relationship with the hospitality sales partner, including inventory management, product updates, and client enquiries.
• Lead communication and foster collaboration between key departments, including marketing, ticketing, and catering operations.
• Provide clear, accurate updates on sales performance and trends.
• On event days, meet and greet guests and enhance their experience wherever possible.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Proven track record of success within a sales or similar environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proactive attitude and application to tasks.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Ability to overcome challenges independently.
• Highly resilient.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience in the sports industry, either with rights holders or agencies.
• Experience selling hospitality or similar high-end products.
• Knowledge of CRM and sales intelligence tools.
• Familiarity with Secutix and Seat Unique ticketing platforms.
• Interest in and knowledge of sports, particularly cricket.
• Educated to at least degree level or equivalent experience.

What you'll get in return:

• Employee discounts at various venues, including a restaurant, spa, and wellbeing centre.
• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Complimentary tickets to all local cricket fixtures and discounted access to international matches (excluding ICC events).
• Free on-site parking.
• Daily lunch is provided at the workplace on working days.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.