Sales Manager

OVERVIEW

The Sales Manager is responsible for generating new group and meeting business that drives overnight stays and year-round visitation in Duluth. This position focuses on developing new relationships, responding to leads, and securing bookings that create economic impact for the community.

Reporting to the Director of Sales, the Sales Manager plays a key role in prospecting, lead management, proposal development, and client engagement. The position also collaborates with the Executive Director on marketing coordination to ensure sales efforts align with Visit Duluth’s brand and strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales

• Identify, research, and pursue new meeting, convention, group, and sports business opportunities—particularly during shoulder and off-peak seasons.
• Develop and maintain relationships with planners, associations, and event organizers to generate new leads and repeat business.
• Conduct proactive outreach through sales calls, trade shows, FAM tours, networking events, and industry meetings.
• Manage the sales pipeline using iDSS to ensure accurate tracking of leads, proposals, and definite bookings.
• Qualify leads and coordinate proposals in collaboration with the Director of Sales and local partners.

Client Relations & Event Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for smaller and mid-sized group business (<200 attendees), providing exceptional service throughout the sales cycle.
• Conduct site visits and destination presentations to highlight Duluth’s meeting and event offerings.
• Partner with local hotels, venues, and attractions to develop custom proposals and ensure smooth client experiences.
• Coordinate pre-convention and site preparation needs, providing consistent communication and follow-up.
• Define and maintain a clear service list for clients to ensure expectations and deliverables are met.
• Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with the DECC, lodging partners, attractions, and event venues to ensure seamless service delivery.

Collaboration & Marketing Alignment

• Collaborate with the Executive Director to align sales activities with Visit Duluth’s marketing strategy and seasonal campaigns.
• Contribute sales-related content, insights, and success stories for digital platforms and industry communications.
• Partner with the Director of Account Services to identify market trends, track competition, and inform strategic decision-making.

Administration & Reporting

• Maintain complete and accurate sales data in iDSS and provide timely activity and conversion reports.
• Assist in preparing departmental updates, budgets, and performance summaries as requested.
• Support continuous improvement of internal systems, templates, and sales processes.
• Participate in internal meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, hospitality, or related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in sales, business development, or account management—preferably in meetings, conventions, or tourism.
• Proven ability to develop new business and nurture relationships.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of CRM systems (iDSS or comparable) or willingness to learn.
• Knowledge of the meetings and tourism industry, including trends, competition, and event logistics.
• Ability to travel for trade shows, client meetings, and partner events.

Additional Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods, and occasionally bend, kneel, or reach.
• Must be able to operate standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier, etc.) and communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in writing.
• Position may require occasional evening, weekend, or holiday hours, and occasional travel within and outside Duluth.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Wage starting at $23.00/hour DOQ.