Director of Group Sales/Business Development

Join Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort and be a key player in a thriving, upscale destination renowned for its breathtaking beachside location, extensive amenities, and 90,000 square feet of versatile conference space. As our Director of Group Sales, you’ll lead a dynamic team in securing large-scale events, crafting memorable experiences for our guests, and driving business growth for a premier resort on the Florida coast. This is more than a sales role; it’s an opportunity to showcase your strategic expertise in a setting that combines the best of luxury, hospitality, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle. Become part of Sandestin’s legacy of excellence and elevate your career in an inspiring and rewarding environment.

Position Overview:

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, the premier resort destination on the Florida Panhandle, is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Group Sales/Business Development to lead our group sales team. This role is crucial in promoting our expansive 90,000 square feet of flexible conference space, along with our exceptional resort amenities, to elevate group business and events. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in group sales within a luxury or upscale resort setting and will possess the ability to forge long-term partnerships with clients while exceeding sales targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and Execute Sales Strategy: Lead the group sales team in creating and implementing strategies to attract large-scale events, conferences, and corporate groups. Ensure consistent revenue growth and achievement of sales goals.
• Promote Conference and Event Spaces: Highlight our versatile 90,000 sq ft of meeting and event spaces, including ballrooms, boardrooms, and unique outdoor venues, to showcase Sandestin as the ideal destination for memorable and successful events.
• Client Relationship Management: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, meeting planners, and event organizers. Provide exceptional customer service to ensure a seamless planning and execution experience.
• Team Leadership and Development: Mentor and guide the group sales team, setting high-performance standards and encouraging continuous growth. Facilitate training and development to improve team effectiveness.
• Market Analysis and Trend Monitoring: Stay informed about trends in the meetings and events industry, as well as competitor offerings, to ensure Sandestin remains a top choice in the market.
• Collaboration with Resort Departments: Work closely with operations, catering, marketing, and other departments to align group sales initiatives with resort objectives and maintain service excellence.
• Financial Accountability: Prepare budgets, forecasts, and sales reports. Monitor and adjust sales strategies based on performance metrics and changing market conditions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business Administration, Marketing, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in HOSPITALITY group sales within the luxury resort, hospitality, or events industry.
• Proven track record of successful sales and revenue growth, with a focus on group sales.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and motivating sales teams.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with sales management software and CRM systems.
• A passion for customer service, hospitality, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.