Regional Director of Sales And Marketing

Job Title: Director of Sales and Marketing – Event Location Sales

Location: Sarasota Polo Club, Lakewood Ranch, FL

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: General Manager

Overview:

The Sarasota Polo Club, a premier 170-acre equestrian and event destination in Lakewood Ranch, FL, seeks a dynamic Director of Sales and Marketing to lead the promotion and booking of its world-class facilities for events. With seven Bermuda grass polo fields, a regulation-sized arena, a midfield pavilion, and a legacy of hosting 50,000 spectators annually, the club is a sought-after venue for private matches, corporate events, weddings, concerts, and charity fundraisers. The Director will spearhead sales strategies to maximize event bookings, enhance brand visibility, and drive revenue, while aligning with the club’s community-focused ethos and vibrant social scene.

Key Responsibilities:

• Event Sales Leadership:

• Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to book events, including private polo matches, corporate outings, weddings, festivals, and fundraisers, targeting local businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and regional organizations.

• Act as the primary contact for client inquiries, conducting site tours, crafting tailored proposals, and negotiating contracts to secure bookings for the club’s pavilion, grounds, and facilities.

• Build and maintain relationships with event planners, vendors, and corporate clients to ensure repeat business and referrals.

• Marketing Strategy:

• Design and implement marketing campaigns to promote the club as a premier event venue, leveraging digital platforms, social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram), and local media to highlight its unique offerings, such as Sunday polo matches and the Thursday Sunset Polo Happy Hour matches.

• Collaborate with the club’s leadership to create promotional materials, including brochures, videos, and website content, showcasing the venue’s versatility for events ranging from casual barbecues to elegant galas.

• Analyze market trends and competitor offerings in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch to position the club as a top choice for event hosts.

• Revenue Growth:

• Meet or exceed annual revenue targets for event bookings, sponsorships, and related services, such as catering or private match experiences.

• Develop pricing strategies and packages that balance profitability with accessibility, ensuring options like group tents, VIP seating, or presenting sponsorships appeal to diverse clients.

• Track sales metrics, prepare forecasts, and present quarterly reports to leadership, identifying opportunities to optimize event revenue.

• Event Coordination Support:

• Work closely with the Director of Operations and event staff to ensure seamless execution of booked events, aligning client needs with club resources (e.g., field setup, staffing, or vendor coordination).

• Gather post-event feedback to improve client satisfaction and refine offerings, ensuring the club maintains its reputation for excellence.

• Community Engagement:

• Represent the club at local networking events, trade shows, and Sarasota Chamber of Commerce gatherings to build partnerships and attract corporate clients.

• Promote the club’s role in the community by securing charity events and sponsorships, reinforcing its status as a social hub in Lakewood Ranch.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, hospitality, or a related field (preferred).

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in sales and marketing, with at least 3 years in event sales or venue management, ideally in hospitality, sports, or luxury markets.

• Proven track record of meeting revenue targets and securing high-profile bookings, with experience negotiating contracts and managing client relationships.

• Strong marketing skills, including proficiency in digital advertising, social media strategy, and content creation; familiarity with analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) is a plus.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and networking abilities, with a knack for building rapport with diverse stakeholders, from corporate executives to wedding planners.

• Knowledge of Sarasota’s business and tourism landscape, with an understanding of the polo or equestrian industry as an advantage.

• Ability to work weekends and evenings, especially during the polo season (December to April), and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency in CRM software (e.g., Salesforce), Microsoft Office, and event management tools.

Personal Attributes:

• Charismatic and professional, with a passion for delivering memorable client experiences.

• Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset and creative flair for marketing unique venues.

• Team player who thrives in a collaborative setting and respects the club’s community-oriented culture.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary plus performance-based bonuses tied to event revenue goals.

• Paid time off and opportunities for professional development.

• Access to club events and networking opportunities in Sarasota’s vibrant community.

Why Join Us?

The Sarasota Polo Club is more than a venue—it’s a legacy of excitement, elegance, and community connection. As Director of Sales and Marketing, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping unforgettable experiences, from thrilling polo matches to bespoke corporate retreats, while growing your career in one of Florida’s most dynamic markets. Join us to make every event a victory on and off the field.

To Apply:

Submit your resume, cover letter, and a brief portfolio of past event sales or marketing successes to info@sarasotapolo.com. Please include “Director of Sales and Marketing Application” in the subject line. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.