Meetings & Conventions Sales Manager - Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce : Job Details

Position Overview:

The Meetings & Convention Sales Manager is responsible for generating leads, following up on inquiries, and securing bookings to position Branson as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and events. This role requires a proactive and detail-oriented professional with exceptional communication skills, a positive attitude, and a flair for luxury service. The ideal candidate is an analytical thinker and creative problem solver who can identify opportunities, cultivate relationships, and deliver an elevated customer experience.

With a focus on lead generation and booking business, this position demands expertise in leveraging databases, analyzing market trends, and engaging with clients to tailor solutions. Experience in luxury hotel settings and a deep understanding of high-end service standards are preferred, as this role requires a polished and enthusiastic approach to communication and service delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

· Aggressively pursue new business opportunities by identifying and soliciting leads from databases, RFP platforms, and industry contacts.

· Conduct thorough research to uncover potential clients and market opportunities, ensuring alignment with Branson's offerings.

· Actively follow up on leads, ensuring timely communication and a personalized approach to convert inquiries into confirmed business.

· Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospects and regularly update CRM systems with accurate and detailed information.

· Collaborate with the Analytics Coordinator to track and report economic impact metrics, ensuring data-driven decision-making and alignment with organizational goals.

· Manage the year-to-date budget for meetings and conventions, ensuring timely submission of payments and invoices while maintaining accurate financial records. Provide strategic input and actionable feedback to the Director of Sales during the development of next year's budget.

· Cultivate relationships with planners, decision-makers, and stakeholders to build trust and loyalty, delivering tailored solutions that align with client needs.

· Represent Branson at key industry events, trade shows, and conferences to build relationships with potential clients and position the destination as a premier meetings and conventions location.

· Take a leadership role in planning and executing in-market conferences, FAM tours, and site tours, ensuring these events are meticulously organized, align with Branson's brand standards, and deliver an exceptional experience that highlights the destination's offerings.

· Provide expert guidance on Branson's meeting spaces, venues, and services, offering recommendations to clients based on their unique objectives and preferences.

· Work closely with clients to refine event details and ensure all logistics align with their vision, providing a seamless experience from initial inquiry to event execution.

· Coordinate with internal teams and local partners to deliver exceptional events that exceed client expectations, while ensuring adherence to Branson's brand standards.

· Maintain awareness of competing cities and industry trends to refine sales tactics and stay competitive in the meetings and conventions market.

· Coordinate and distribute visitor satisfaction surveys to meeting and convention clients, gathering valuable feedback to assess performance, identify areas for improvement, and enhance future experiences.

· Contribute to the development of marketing materials and sales presentations including but not limited to sales videos, publications, advertisements, scripts, PowerPoints, and more to support business development efforts and enhance Branson's market presence.

· Provide regular updates on sales activities, opportunities, and outcomes to the Director of Sales & Operations, ensuring transparency and alignment with broader organizational objectives.

Special Characteristics and Abilities:

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple assignments effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on developing public speaking confidence.
• Ability to work collaboratively while taking initiative on individual tasks.
• Professional, adaptable, and able to handle stress and urgency with poise.
• Demonstrates a customer-focused approach and a commitment to excellence in all interactions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing or related tourism field. Industry experience may be considered as acceptable option

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in Hospitality, Tourism Sales, Operations, Sales Management in hotel industry, destination management organization, tourism-related entity or appropriate field.

• Strong command of Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or similar spreadsheet software

• Knowledge of leisure travel and hospitality, and other related tourism industries required.

• Must show pattern of significant growth and consistency in prior work experience.

• Must have valid driver's license. Must be free to travel as needed to carry out organizational goals.