- Continuously evaluate the strengths and challenges of the sales and catering teams.
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and training to enhance the capabilities of the sales team.
- Develop marketing and PR initiatives that support our sales strategies and activities for the Hotel and Food and Beverage Outlets.
- Instill a sense of urgency within the team to proactively anticipate and meet customer needs.
- Manage specific accounts as assigned by the VP Director of Sales & Marketing.
- Oversee assigned market segments, leveraging your expertise and network to benefit the hotel.
- Stay informed about our competitive landscape and make recommendations for sales, pricing, service, and product enhancements to maintain our competitiveness.
- Ensure the achievement of sales targets for rooms and catering revenue budgets.
- Regularly review market mix shifts with revenue and operations teams, providing deployment and pricing recommendations.
- Stay up to date with industry trends.
- Coordinate with IHG Corporate Sellers to communicate the specific needs of key accounts.
- Identify key markets, and develop deployment and travel schedules accordingly.
- Lead all Public Relations efforts, including managing the PR firm and aligning with brand initiatives.
- Travel may be required.
- Collaborate with the VP of Sales & Marketing to develop revenue and production goals.
- Actively participate in weekly yield meetings.
- Work closely with the Revenue Manager to develop rate and yield strategies.
- Collaborate with the Catering Manager on monthly, quarterly, and annual catering budgets and forecasting.
- Manage departmental budgets, forecasting monthly expenses, and explaining variances on the P&L.
- Regularly analyze industry intelligence reports (STR, Demand360, Agency 360, etc.).
- Utilize relevant data to develop and recommend appropriate actions.
- Assist in creating individual quarterly action plans for your team.
- Ensure accurate and comprehensive notes/traces of accounts are maintained using Opera and Delphi databases.
- Develop an Annual Business Plan.
- Bachelor's degree in Hotel Administration or Business is preferred.
- A minimum of 5 years of hotel sales experience, with direct experience in BT and Association segments is a plus.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in computer software including Delphi sales software, Microsoft Office Suite, and Salesforce.
- Ability to inspire, lead, and develop a team by setting an example.
- Exceptional organizational skills with acute attention to detail.
- Outstanding communication skills, both internally and externally.
- The capability to translate vision into actionable strategies that benefit the hotel.
- Diplomacy in handling challenging situations and individuals while maintaining professionalism.
- Adaptability to rapidly changing market dynamics and needs.
director of sales - Kingston, Canada - Holiday Inn Kingston-Waterfront
Description
THE OPPORTUNITY:
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
REPORTS TO GENERAL MANAGER
We are seeking out the "best of the best" to join our team at the Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront, Kingston's landmark property. The Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront has a rich history of hospitality, dating back to 1967. The recent renovations in 2020 were exciting, not just for the guests but for our associates as well, revitalizing facilities, modernizing amenities, and enhancing the overall guest experience, making it even more appealing for corporate travelers and conference attendees. Being situated in downtown Kingston and within walking distance to various attractions offers a huge advantage, offering convenience and accessibility to guests exploring the city.
We offer our employees a fun and professional work environment with training and career advancement opportunities, as well as meaningful benefits for their wellbeing.
As a Director of Sales & Marketing, you will receive the following benefits:
• Competitive Compensation Package
• Extended Health Benefit Plan
• Free On-Site Staff Parking
• 50% on Food at Wharf and Feather Restaurant and Patio
• Participate in IHG Employee Travel Program
• Educational Assistance Program – Take courses that will assist with your career development.
THE COMPANY:
With over 90 hotels in our portfolio, representing 18 internationally recognized hotel brands, InnVest is the largest independent owner of hotels in Canada. In addition, our management team oversees the day-to-day activities of almost 70 hotels also making InnVest the largest independent operator of hotels in Canada. InnVest's portfolio is geographically diverse with hotels from Vancouver, BC to Corner Brook, NL but also experientially diverse from roadside inns to luxury urban properties.
At InnVest, our mission is simple – to deliver outstanding guest experiences and superior returns on quality hospitality investment. A career at InnVest will provide you with unrivaled opportunities and invaluable exposure to Canada's largest independently-owned and operated hotel portfolio.
To learn more about InnVest Hotels, visit
THE ROLE:
The Director of Sales & Marketing position is generally responsible for directing the sales and marketing efforts of the hotel in order to maximize revenue. The incumbent will be responsible to lead a dynamic sales team, coordinate all marketing initiatives and sell hotel rooms with a significant revenue contribution.
As a Director of Sales and Marketing , you will play a vital role in developing and executing sales and marketing strategies to drive revenue, enhance brand recognition and deliver an exceptional guest experience.
Responsibilities Sales Strategy Development : Develop and implement effective sales strategies to achieve revenue targets and maximize profitability; identify new business opportunities and cultivate strong relationships with corporate clients, travel agencies, event planners, local partners and other relevant stakeholders.
Marketing Campaigns : Collaborate with the sales team to create and execute innovative marketing campaigns that enhance brand awareness and drive direct bookings; develop targeted promotions, advertising initiatives and digital marketing strategies to reach the hotel's target audience.
Team Leadership : Manage and lead a high-performing sales team; set goals, provide guidance and inspire team members to deliver exceptional results; foster a positive work environment and encourage professional development within the team.
Revenue Management : Collaborate with Revenue Management to analyze market trends, competitor activities and pricing strategies; utilize data and insights to optimize room rates, revenue streams and occupancy levels.
Public Relations : Establish and maintain strong relationships with local media, influencers and industry professionals.
Partnerships and Collaborations : Identify and foster partnerships with appropriate brands, local businesses and organizations to create unique guest experiences and increase brand visibility; negotiate and manage contracts and agreements to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships Budgeting and Reporting: Develop and manage the sales and marketing budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively; monitor and analyze key performance metrics and prepare regular reports.
Guest Experience : Collaborate with Guest Services and Operations teams to ensure a seamless guest experience aligned with the hotel's standards; continuously seek opportunities to enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty through personalized services and tailored experiences.
Requirements Education and Experience : Diploma in Hotel Management Studies. Previous 3-year professional experience in the hospitality industry, including at least two years as Sales Director or at a higher level. Industry Knowledge with a deep understanding of the hotel market, trends and customer preferences; familiarity with revenue management principles and digital marketing strategies; knowledge of local market dynamics and competition.
Strategic Thinker : Ability to develop and execute comprehensive sales and marketing strategies; highly self-motivated, strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess market conditions and identify opportunities; results-oriented mindset with a focus on driving revenue and achieving business objectives.
Leadership and Communication : Proven leadership abilities with experience in managing and motivating a diverse team; excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with clients, partners and team members; strong negotiation and presentation skills.
Brand Ambassador : Passionate about hospitality and committed to upholding the hotel's brand image and reputation; ability to embody the hotel's values and deliver an exceptional guest experience at all times Adaptability and Resilience: Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment; able to navigate and prioritize multiple projects and deadlines; resilient in the face of challenges and able to quickly adapt strategies as needed.
Our philosophy is simple : We are seeking out the "best of the best" from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Administrative Responsibilities
SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE WE'RE SEEKING:
Demonstrated strong selling skills and alignment with the Company Culture.
InnVest Hotels is an inclusive employer. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. We appreciate all applications, however, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.