Event Sales Manager

Event Sales Manager

About Us:

Savannah Riverboat Cruises is committed to serving guests above expectations. The goal is to ensure all cruises are memorable experiences on the Savannah waterfront with southern charm and hospitality.

The Event Sales Manager will establish Savannah Riverboat Cruises as the venue of choice and execute sales strategy directed by the Director of Sales to grow market share and revenue while meeting or exceeding targets.

POSITION SUMMARY

Sales Focus:

Develops a comprehensive knowledge of the client and market needs, supported by regularly visiting clients and setting up face-to-face appointments.

• Follows guidance of sales leadership and incorporates effective sales techniques, such as regularly hosting site tours aboard ships.
• Generates leads using high closing rate techniques such as client appointments and networking through current customers.
• Converts prospects to clients using proven sales strategies with the goal of winning the sale.
• Regularly attends networking events and other in-person industry events.
• Identifies customer needs and uses in-depth product knowledge to prepare proposals.
• Presents proposals in-person during site inspections and face-to-face meetings.
• Handles objections and solves customer problems through active listening and consultation with sales leadership.
• Establishes relationships with associations and business organizations (e.g., Convention & Visitors Bureau) to gain referrals.

Administrative:

• Plans weekly schedules focused on closing revenue and executing out-of-office sales activities (client visits, networking events, ship tours, boarding client events).
• Balances schedule including boarding clients and, when necessary, cruising with high-value clients.

Customer Service:

• Responds promptly to client inquiries, aiming to provide quotes within 24 hours.
• Ensures accurate communication of product details to operations.
• Follows up within 24 hours after the cruise to thank clients, request surveys, and obtain referrals.
• Works with Director of Sales to resolve issues, handling high-priority issues in person when needed.

ADDITIONAL TASKS

• Attends meetings as required.
• Performs other duties assigned by the Director of Sales.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Hospitality experience preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM software.
• Strong analytical skills to identify sales opportunities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong proposal writing ability.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships.
• Ability to persuade and influence others.
• Proven leadership skills.
• Ability to travel.
• Industry experience (motorcoach, tour & travel, corporate & convention) is a plus.
• Tradeshow experience (NTA, ABA, TravelSouth) is a plus.
• Strong listening, problem-solving, and consensus-building skills.

TECHNICAL & ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS

• Uses CRM software to manage activities and track productivity.
• Uses reservation software to book orders and create proposals.
• Maintains organization, manages time effectively, and prioritizes work.
• Manages accounts receivable and collects payments within guidelines.