Overview

Job Summary

The Area Sales Manager is responsible for generating group business from assigned markets for AJS Hotels. The development of business will be derived from account penetration, new account acquisition, re-solicitation of past accounts and fielding of direct leads.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Make personal visits, when necessary to target areas and call on Companies and organizations located in a specific market or area.
• Book meetings, conferences and conventions from assigned markets.
• Dedicate majority of time to direct sales.
• Rework and maintain old account files and solicit new accounts.
• Respond to all correspondence from assigned areas and trace dates for reworking and follow up.
• Set-up site inspections and follow through.
• Attend trade shows pertinent to assigned areas and attend meetings, seminars and functions through membership in association.
• Perform general office duties and assist other personnel, as required.
• Maintain a constant contact with Corporate and Association meeting planners, maintain membership and contacts in hotel industry associations.
• Maintain a working relationship with departments interacting with convention groups.
• Develop new accounts by being inquisitive of accounts we have for "spin off".
• Stay abreast of industry trends and make recommendations of changes which would affect operations.
• Maintain accurate forecast and recap information.
• Set-up and conduct site inspections for area hotels.

Other Duties

• All Associates are required to fully comply with company and departmental rules, regulations and policies for the safe, secure, effective and environmentally friendly operation of the hotel facilities. Examples include, but are not limited to lost and found procedures, emergency procedures, recycling efforts, etc.
• Attend and participate in all company and/or departmental meetings, training sessions and other information meetings.
• Regular attendance in conformance with company standards is essential to the successful performance of this position.
• Comply with company grooming standards for both uniformed and non-uniformed associates.
• Comply with company service and behavioral standards towards our guests, vendors and fellow colleagues, including, but not limited to ensuring proper phone etiquette, courteous and respectful behavior and maintaining a friendly and positive attitude.
• Perform all other duties as directed by management that are consistent with the policies and procedures of the company.

Qualifications

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Physical Effort:

Significant portions of day require prolonged standing, moving and sedentary work. Ability to visually review documents and computer screen throughout day.

Physical Environment:

Ability to walk or stand for extended periods of time during course of shift.

Manual Skills

Significant portions of daily assignments involve application of manual skills requiring motor coordination in combination with finger dexterity, e.g., typing, handwriting, or machine operations.

Work Schedule:

Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, Associates may be required to work varying schedules to reflect the business needs of the company.

Safety:

Responsible for operating within company safety guidelines, including the safe and responsible operation of company equipment. Reports and addresses safety concerns as they arise. Ensures safe handling of chemicals in accordance with company and department standards and utilizes proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when appropriate.

Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent vocational training certificate required. Some college or college degree preferred. Degree in hospitality management preferred.

Experience:

Prefer experience in hotel large market sales. Prior experience within a convention hotel preferred.

Computer Skill & Other Technical Skills:

Ability to utilize computer software and hardware required.

Ability to easily maneuver on computer keyboard required.

Ability to learn, utilize and communicate effectively via company issued communication devices.

Communication:

Advanced ability to comprehend and speak English to understand and respond to information and address advanced guest requests required both verbally and in writing. Knowledge of additional language(s) preferred.

Licenses or Certifications:

n/a

Other:

Must be customer-service oriented and have excellent hospitality skills.

Must be able to calculate basic mathematic functions.