Assistant Director of Sales

The Assistant Director of Sales supports the Director of Sales in leading the daily operations of the Sales Department and executing strategies that increase convention bookings, occupancy, and revenue for the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (MCCNO). This position provides direct leadership to assigned Sales Managers, monitors sales performance, coaches staff, oversees key accounts, and ensures consistent execution of departmental goals and customer service standards. The Assistant Director serves as an operational leader for the department, helping maintain sales momentum, strengthen client relationships, and coordinate cross-functional efforts while acting on behalf of the Director as needed.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Sales Operations and Team Leadership

• Support the Director in executing the department's annual sales strategy and achieving established booking and revenue goals.
• Monitor individual and team sales activity, pipeline development, booking pace, and account performance.
• Review sales reports and booking activity to identify opportunities and recommend corrective actions.
• Ensure consistent use of CRM systems, reporting tools, and departmental procedures.
• Assist with onboarding, training, and professional development of Sales staff.
• Serve as Acting Director during the Director's absence.

Client & Account Management

• Manage a portfolio of assigned national and regional convention accounts.
• Conduct site visits, facility tours, and client presentations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with meeting planners, event organizers, industry partners, and repeat clients.
• Support contract negotiations and assist in resolving complex client issues.
• Participate in pre-convention, post-convention, and client planning meetings.
• Represent MCCNO during familiarization tours, industry events, and customer appreciation functions.

Sales Performance & Business Development

• Monitor booking trends, pace reports, lost business reports, and market opportunities.
• Partner with Sales Managers to develop strategies for competitive accounts.
• Assist in identifying new markets and business opportunities that align with organizational objectives.
• Support implementation of sales campaigns and targeted prospecting initiatives.
• Track departmental KPIs and prepare performance reports for leadership.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work collaboratively with Event Services, Operations, Marketing, Finance, and other internal departments to support successful event execution.
• Coordinate with New Orleans & Company regarding assigned accounts, booking activity, and sales initiatives.
• Ensure seamless communication during the sales-to-event transition process.
• Support process improvements that enhance the customer experience.

Strategic Support

• Assist the Director in developing annual sales goals, departmental initiatives, and operational priorities.
• Contribute to budget planning, forecasting, and departmental reporting.
• Recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Participate in strategic planning discussions and special projects.

Administration & Compliance

• Review contracts, proposals, and correspondence for accuracy and compliance.
• Ensure departmental documentation, records, and reporting remain current.
• Support policy implementation and ensure adherence to organizational procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends, venue capabilities, and sales best practices.

ACCOUNTABILITIES FOR SUPERVISION

• Participate in decisions related to the selection, promotion, transfer, pay and discipline of assigned personnel.
• Orient employees to MCCNO policies and procedures and clearly communicate job duties and responsibilities so individuals may proceed with certainty in the performance of their positions.
• Personally conduct or oversee training for new employees to ensure established procedures are clearly understood and followed.
• Monitor the work performance of assigned personnel on a continual basis, conduct effective performance appraisals, and take corrective action whenever necessary.
• Create a working climate in which assigned personnel are motivated to develop their skills and abilities and demonstrate by personal example the desired standards of conduct and work performance.
• Administer MCCNO policies in a fair and equitable manner with regard to discipline, tardiness, absenteeism or insubordination and fully document all incidents and actions taken.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
• Ability to travel occasionally for industry conferences, trade shows, and client meetings.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups of people
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing high-performing sales teams.
• Strong relationship management and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of convention center operations and the hospitality industry.
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to analyze booking trends and sales performance data.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.