What are the responsibilities and job description for the Destination Sales Manager position at Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau?
The Destination Sales Manager is a high-impact sales role responsible for driving new business and expanding client relationships to grow tourism in Greater Akron and Summit County. This position focuses on generating leads, securing new business, and maximizing economic impact by positioning the region as a premier destination for meetings, events, and group travel.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
- Proactively identify, target, and pursue new business opportunities within key markets to drive hotel bookings and event activity.
- Develop and execute strategic sales plans to generate leads, convert prospects, and exceed revenue goals.
- Conduct high-volume, proactive sales outreach (in-person and virtual), including cold calls, client meetings, and presentations.
- Build, manage, and grow a strong pipeline of qualified leads through consistent prospecting and follow-up.
- Close business by effectively positioning Greater Akron and Summit County as a competitive and compelling event destination.
- Maintain and expand relationships with existing clients to drive repeat business and long-term partnerships.
- Represent all Summit County hotels and venues as a trusted destination expert for meeting planners and event organizers.
- Lead impactful site visits and tours that showcase the region’s assets and convert prospects into booked business.
- Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customers’ needs to refine sales strategies and uncover new opportunities.
- Represent ASCVB at industry trade shows, conferences, and networking events to generate leads and elevate brand visibility.
- Collaborate with the Director of Sales to align strategies, maximize performance, and capitalize on market opportunities.
- Actively support and leverage ASCVB’s digital and social media platforms to enhance prospective engagement and brand awareness.
- Consistently meet or exceed individual sales goals, activity metrics, and performance expectations.
Core Competencies Required
- Sales Drive & Results Orientation – Highly motivated to achieve and exceed goals with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- Prospecting & Closing Skills – Proven ability to generate leads, build pipelines, and close business.
- Relationship Management – Skilled at building trust and long-term partnerships with clients and stakeholders.
- Communication & Presentation Skills – Confident, persuasive communicator in both one-on-one and group settings.
- Strategic Thinking – Ability to identify opportunities, analyze trends, and execute effective sales strategies.
- Resilience & Persistence – Thrives in a fast-paced environment and remains focused despite challenges.
- Time & Pipeline Management – Effectively prioritizes activities to maximize productivity and results.
- Technical Proficiency – Experience with CRM systems, Microsoft Office, Excel and Simpleview preferred.
Additional Information
- Position Type: Full-time, in-office
- Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (evenings and weekends as needed)