Senior Sales Manager - World Equestrian Center Ocala
2 months ago
Ocala
Job Description About World Equestrian Center – Ocala World Equestrian Center (WEC) – Ocala is a premier, luxury multi-venue destination offering world-class equestrian competition, upscale lodging and dining, and exceptional meeting and event spaces. In 2026, we expanded our portfolio with the opening of The Equestrian Manor at World Equestrian Center – Ocala, a signature meeting and event experience designed for high-touch corporate retreats, incentive programs, executive offsites, VIP gatherings, and more. Position Summary The Senior Sales Manager is responsible for driving new business acquisition and revenue growth for Group Rooms and Event bookings across multiple market segments. This role will be a key contributor to the successful launch of The Equestrian Manor at WEC – Ocala, leveraging its unique luxury positioning to attract high-value groups. The Manager will lead proactive, outbound prospecting, develop account strategies, cultivate relationships with decision-makers (e.g., corporate planners, association executives, incentive houses, third-party intermediaries, and strategic partners), and coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure exceptional end-to-end client experience. Remote opportunities available for the right candidate in the following areas: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina. Key Responsibilities • Prospecting & New Business Development, • Build and manage a robust pipeline targeting groups with a focus on high-value meetings, conventions, executive retreats, and reward travel., • Execute proactive outreach (sales calls, email campaigns, industry networking, LinkedIn/social selling, etc.) to generate qualified leads for The Equestrian Manor, broader WEC – Ocala venues, and The Equestrian and Riding Academy Hotels., • Identify, qualify, and convert opportunities with group decision makers, incentive travel firms, third-party planners, and DMCs., • Sales Strategy & Execution, • Develop territory plans and account-based strategies aligned with revenue goals, seasonality, and calendar of events., • Prepare proposals, conduct site inspections, deliver presentations, and negotiate commercial terms in partnership with Revenue Management and Senior Sales Leadership., • Collaborate with Marketing to tailor messaging and collateral emphasizing The Equestrian Manor, broader WEC – Ocala venues, and The Equestrian and Riding Academy Hotel’s luxury, privacy, and bespoke experiences., • Partnerships & Market Development, • Build relationships with CVB/DMO partners, industry associations (e.g. MPI), and key intermediaries to source and influence new demand., • Represent WEC – Ocala at tradeshows, sales missions, and client events; coordinate co-op programs and familiarization (FAM) trips., • Cross-Functional Collaboration, • Partner with Operations, Events, Culinary, Lodging, and Event Services to ensure seamless planning, delivery, and post-event satisfaction., • Provide clear handoffs to Event Services and Operations with detailed group profiles and expectations., • Revenue Management & Reporting, • Maintain accurate records in CRM: pipeline stages, activities, forecasts, contracts, and post-event feedback., • Track performance against KPIs (production, conversion rates, revenue, pace) and provide regular business reviews., • Brand Experience & Client Service, • Champion WEC – Ocala’s luxury standards, ensuring proposals, communications, and on-site experiences reflect the brand., • Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality, Marketing, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered., • 3–5+ years of sales experience in hospitality, luxury resorts, meetings/incentives, or corporate group sales; launch or opening experience is a plus., • Proven success in prospecting and closing complex group business across multiple market & vertical segments., • Strong negotiation, presentation, and relationship management skills; comfort with executive audiences and travel procurement., • Proficiency with CRM systems (Salesforce/Delphi), Microsoft 365, and virtual meeting tools., • Knowledge of various market channels (meeting planners, incentive houses, third parties, DMCs, CVBs/DMOs) and industry tradeshows. Physical Requirements • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, frequent walking during site inspections and property tours., • Ability to lift, carry, or move materials (e.g., marketing collateral, displays) up to 25 lbs occasionally., • Frequent use of computer, phone, and AV equipment; ability to conduct presentations in various settings., • Travel is required for property presence for all sites/meetings internal and external., • client meetings, tradeshows, sales missions, and industry events (estimated: 40 - 50%, subject to business need and seasonality)., • Fast-paced, client-focused environment with high service standards. The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management, a company committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences in a positive and supportive work environment. We value work-life balance and professional development. We are a Drug Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants must successfully complete a background check prior to employment.