At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales for events at the iconic Ewood Park and build strong client relationships.
- Company: Join Sodexo Live!, a global leader in hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, uncapped commission, free parking, and onsite meals.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities in a fast-paced, target-driven setting.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a dynamic environment and drive change in event sales.
- Qualifications: Proven sales experience, strong communication skills, and team leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Are you a results-driven sales leader with a passion for events, hospitality, and winning new business? We're looking for a Conference and Events Sales Manager to drive commercial success at the iconic Ewood Park. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and deliver a high-impact sales strategy, grow market share, and position the venue as a leading destination for conferences, meetings and events. You'll be both a hands-on seller and inspiring leader, building strong client relationships while developing a high-performing sales culture on site.
What You'll Do:
- Drive Revenue & Growth
- Lead the venue's conference & events sales strategy
- Proactively generate new business and grow existing accounts
- Build a strong pipeline of opportunities to exceed revenue targets
- Maximise conversion rates and spend per head
- Build Client Relationships
- Manage and develop key corporate and agency accounts
- Deliver exceptional customer experiences from enquiry to booking
- Build long-term partnerships and drive repeat business
- Lead Sales Performance
- Use tools like Salesforce to track pipeline and forecast performance
- Analyse market trends, competitor activity, and customer insights
- Implement proactive sales initiatives (networking events, sales blitzes, fam trips)
- Inspire & Lead a Team
- Lead, coach and develop the on-site sales team
- Create a high-performance culture focused on results and engagement
- Set clear objectives and support continuous improvement
- Elevate the Brand
- Collaborate with marketing teams to maximise venue exposure
- Ensure strong local presence in the Lancashire market and beyond
- Support campaigns, social media, and promotional activity
What We're Looking For:
- Proven success in proactive sales, ideally within hospitality or venues
- Strong track record of achieving and exceeding revenue targets
- Experience managing key accounts and developing new business
- Confident in using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) and sales tools
- Experience leading or mentoring a team
Key Skills:
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills
- Strong negotiation and influencing ability
- Excellent organisation and time management
- Commercial mindset with a focus on ROI and performance
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, target-driven environment
Why Join Sodexo Live!
At Sodexo Live!, you'll be part of a global leader in hospitality, working in a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and impact matter. Work at an iconic football stadium. Be part of a growing, ambitious sales team. Real opportunity to make your mark and drive change. Ongoing development and career progression opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conference and Events Sales Manager - Blackburn
✨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 Sodexo. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo 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 Conference and Events Sales Manager - Blackburn
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 Sodexo 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 Sodexo
✨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!
