Conference & Events Sales Executive
About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Sales Executive to join our dynamic Conference and Events team. The Sales Executive will be responsible for driving sales of the museum’s event and conference spaces, generating new leads, managing client relationships, and ensuring the successful booking of events.
This is a key role that requires a proactive and client-focused approach to secure revenue growth and maximise venue bookings, through proactive sales strategy and analysis along with the up-selling of products and services.
About Us
As one of the leading museums and visitor attractions in the South West, with 125,000 visitors annually, you will join a dynamic and engaged team of over 120 staff and volunteers.
Haynes Motor Museum was established in 1985 by John Haynes OBE and is home to the UK’s largest exhibition of cars and motorbikes dating from the present day back to 1898.
The Museum is a registered charity and has three core objectives:
• The Preservation and Conservation of our Collection
• Education which is delivered through multiple channels.
In support of the charity, the Museum also operates a Trading Company which comprises: Haynes Heritage Engineering, Conference and Events, Café 750 & The Museum Shop and Online Retail.
About you
We are looking to recruit an experienced Sales Executive who is ready to help grow and develop the Museum conference and events business. Working within a busy Conference and Events team you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the Museum’s venue spaces are reaching their full potential and revenue.
Reporting directly to the Conference and Events Commercial Manager you will be the driving force in building relationships and generating sales.
Responsibilities of the Role
• Lead generation and business development – proactively identify and develop new business opportunities
• Client relationship management – Build and maintain strong relationships with clients
• Provide exceptional customer service throughout the sale process
• Take comprehensive client briefs to make quotes and for operational handover
• Sales and revenue generation – meet sales targets, contributing to the overall financial success of the Museum.
• Provide regular and ad hoc sales reports and updates to the Conference & Events Commercial Manager
• Work closely with the events operations team to ensure smooth handover of bookings ensuring all bookings are accurately recorded and developed
• Collaborate with the Marketing team together with the Conference and Events Commercial Manager to develop strategies and materials aimed at increasing venue visibility and attracting new clients
• Attend Trade shows, networking events and exhibitions to promote the Museum’s venue spaces
• Collect post-event client feedback and take appropriate action for continual improvement
• Answering telephone and email enquiries promptly and efficiently
• Work closely with the Commercial Manager to improve and develop business growth system
• Conduct guided tours of the museum’s venue spaces, showcasing the facilities and explaining the unique offerings available.
Who are we looking for?
• Excellent communicator with the ability to inspire and engage others
• We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service throughout the Museum, in both our charity and trading departments. The successful candidate must encompass this commitment.
• Strong networker with good relationship-building skills both externally with new clients and within the Museum
• Passion for sales with a drive to meet and exceed targets
• Ability to work independently using your own initiative and prioritise effectively
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
Essential Experience & Skills
Must have a professional and positive demeanour with the ability to form strong client relationships
Must have strong, competent working knowledge of Microsoft Office, especially Word, Excel and Outlook
Must have a keen eye for accuracy and attention to detail
Must have demonstrable excellent oral and written communication skills
Must have a professional and friendly telephone manner
Must work well as part of a team, but equally be able to work on own initiative
Must be proactive with a can-do attitude
Highly organised, a strong multi-tasker and capable of prioritising and meeting deadlines
Previous sales experience or transferrable skills are essential
Desirable Experience & Skills
Previous experience with a CRM database is desirable
Previous experience in solely sales roles desirable
Knowledge of negotiation strategies to handle objections and close deals successfully
Benefits
• 29 days holiday (increasing in line with service)
• An extra day off for your birthday
• Free on-site parking
• Staff discounts in the on-site café and gift shop
• Free entry into the Museum for you and your family
• Ongoing training and development
Hours & Structure
Salary is circa £27,000 per annum dependent on experience. Team bonus scheme with potential OTE, based on defined KPIs in sales, customer retention, and excellence in customer service standards.
Location
The Museum is based in Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7LH, just minutes off the A303, the main trunk road to the South West.
Contract
This is a permanent contract and could either be a full time or part time position.
Next Steps
Please submit your application and any enquiries to Natalie Mackay at natalie.mackay@haynesmuseum.org :
Please enclose a CV along with a covering letter (no longer than 2 pages) explaining how your personal skills, qualities and experience provide evidence of your suitability – and your passion – for this role.
Closing date for applications 25 November 2024.
Applications and interviews are being shortlisted on a rolling basis, so get in touch ASAP to avoid disappointment.
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships