Sales Manager

Summary

The Sales Manager will be responsible for the sales, leasing, marketing, and new business development of the summer housing program at University Center.

Highlights of the role include sales generation and new business outreach, assisting with marketing planning and strategy, market research and financial reporting, oversight of customer service and client management and initiatives, managing the sales associate(s) day-to-day, and in various areas of operation as needed.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Individual & Group Summer Housing Sales & Leasing / Business Development & Outreach Marketing:

• Develop and solicit business from industries with summer housing needs, as well as, research, develop, and solicit new business opportunities to meet or exceed established sales team goals.
• Utilize established sales and marketing strategies to increase property traffic and prospects (i.e., cold calling, site visits, referral solicitation, partner sponsorships, market research, etc.).
• Attend annual tradeshows, monthly events and specific industry-related events. Identify and plan networking and outreach opportunities for the sales team, including local member events, sponsorship programs, trade shows, client appreciation functions, etc.
• Manage lead responses, prospecting, tours, and regular reporting of client activity; regularly perform follow-up; etc. while maintaining all accurate and up to date prospect data in the software management system.
• Greet clients, monitor delivery of their expectations in collaboration with the Housing Team, and solicit new and repeat bookings and up-sales when appropriate.
• Assist with all sales communications, client social and email marketing, website contract templates, standard letters and other client communications.
• Have a thorough knowledge of and accurately prepare all lease and contract-related paperwork while managing the leasing of summer housing units and selling of products and services of the property to prospective individuals and groups clients, including accurately maintaining up to date modifications of contracts and amendments as needed.
• Exercise excellent judgement and work independently on decisions impacting contract negotiations and sales.
• Understand the facility and products including guest rooms/suites and all other available amenities, services, and pricing.
• Acquire annual certifications, attend sales trainings, and continue professional development growth.

Operations:

• Review and oversee preliminary invoices to ensure proper client billing. Manage the collection of deposit, rent, and/or other fee income associated with summer contracts, while maintaining accurate financial records.
• Explain and enforce University Center policies and procedures to clients and guests.
• Work in coordination with the Housing Team to support all facets of the summer housing operation including summer housing occupancy, assignments, housekeeping, turnover, and more.
• Problem-solve housing assignment, roommate, or other conflicts brought forth by summer housing clients.
• Ensure a well-planned, well-communicated, and smooth arrival and departure for all summer housing groups.
• Facilitate efficient and prompt communication of all assignments, group / client needs, and any changes to the proper departments.
• Assist with successful completion of market research for annual competition surveys and benchmarking.
• Assist with annual pricing strategies, budget planning, reporting of sales and occupancy data, including inquiries and lost sales, etc.

Staff Management:

• Assist in development and facilitation of summer Guest Service Intern onboarding and training.
• Inform and direct summer Guest Service Interns related to group housing client arrangements, onsite support needs and marketing outreach initiatives.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management, Sales and Marketing or related field.
• 2 years minimum of sales management and/or related hospitality and/or real estate experience.
• Illinois Real Estate Leasing Agent license, or willingness to obtain within 120 days.
• Previous experience in closing sales, negotiating contracts, generating leads, or leasing.
• Previous experience in integrated marketing including event planning, copywriting, creative design/advertising, social media promotion strategy and outreach marketing.
• Hospitality experience in the Chicagoland area is a plus.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including occasional weekends and evenings as needed during peak sales, move-in, and move-out periods.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to multi-task and make decisions quickly in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel and ability to learn new software systems successfully.
• Flexible and capable of prioritizing tasks when working in a busy and changing environment.
• Ability to demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, good judgement and decision-making skills, and handle confidential matters in a professional manner.

Physical Requirements

• The person in this position needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery (i.e., phone, copy machine, etc.)
• The person in this position frequency communicates with students and parents. Must be able to exchange accurate information.

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