Assistant Director of Sales - Franchise

Graduate Hotels is seeking a passionate and driven Assistant Director of Sales to join the team at Graduate by Hilton Cambridge. If you are a hospitality enthusiast who thrives in a collaborative environment, leads with integrity and accountability, and embraces continuous growth, we want to hear from you!

The 148-bedroom Graduate by Hilton Cambridge hotel is part of the Graduate Hotels collection, inspired by the prestigious University of Cambridge and its surrounding town. Located on the River Cam in the heart of Cambridge's historic center, the hotel features architecture that nods to the university's heritage.

Role Overview

As an Assistant Director of Sales, you will provide strategic leadership in proactive sales planning, execution, and team development to optimize revenue across corporate, group, leisure, and other key segments. You will work closely with the Director of Sales and Events, General Manager, and Revenue team to align sales strategies, retain business, and drive revenue growth. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for someone eager to lead proactive sales efforts while continuing to learn and grow under experienced mentorship.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sales strategies in collaboration with senior management to ensure alignment with business objectives and drive sales across all segments.
• Manage sales performance analysis to maximize revenue growth.
• Lead and manage the proactive sales team, ensuring team development and performance targets are met.
• Foster a proactive sales culture through collaboration, incentives, and recognition.
• Maintain key account relationships and expand new business opportunities.
• Coach and mentor the sales team through regular meetings, training, and reviews.
• Identify and target new business opportunities, including expanding corporate accounts.
• Manage stakeholder relationships internally and externally.
• Create and implement sales plans aligned with commercial strategies.
• Negotiate contracts and manage RFP processes using tools like Delphi, Lanyon, and Cvent.
• Support team efforts to convert opportunities and increase inbound business.
• Review demand and pricing strategies to optimize occupancy and revenue.
• Monitor budgets and promote upselling of products and services.
• Develop sales initiatives to increase occupancy, rates, and ancillary sales.
• Lead recruitment, training, and ongoing development of the sales team.

Work Experience & Skills

• Minimum 2 years of hotel sales management experience.
• Proficiency in OnQ PMS and Delphi preferred.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Effective stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in recruiting, training, and developing sales teams.
• Proven ability to deliver strategies and meet targets.
• Knowledge of hospitality forecasting, pricing, and inventory control.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and CRM skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.

Benefits

• Competitive salary plus discretionary bonus.
• Discounted stays and dining worldwide.
• Complimentary stay at Graduate Hotels.
• Ongoing professional development.
• Referral rewards, retail discounts, and cashback offers.
• Wellbeing support and team incentives.
• Participation in community and sustainability initiatives.
• On-site parking.
• Join a passionate, friendly team.

About Graduate Hotels

Graduate Hotels is a collection of uniquely designed hotels in vibrant university towns worldwide, including Graduate by Hilton Cambridge. We create spaces that celebrate community and local culture. As a team member, you shape guest experiences, wear multiple hats, and become a local storyteller and team player.

Equal Opportunities & Right to Work

We are committed to fair recruitment practices and do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, or maternity. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.

Disclaimer

This position is with an independent franchisee, who controls employment practices, benefits, and data processing. Employment benefits are provided by the franchisee, not Hilton.