GET TO KNOW SOUTHERN: Southern Management is the largest privately owned property management company in the Mid-Atlantic region. We own and manage apartment communities, hotels, mixed-use, and commercial properties, but our business is people. We empower our team members to do the right things in the right ways for the right reasons. Be part of something worthwhile. Be part of the Southern Difference. Join our team!
GET TO KNOW THE HOTEL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND: The Hotel at the University of Maryland (The Hotel) is a AAA 4-Diamond independent property located directly across the street from the main campus of the University of Maryland. The Hotel is a market leader in service and guest experience, and the team is focused on delivering highly personalized service. The Hotel has 297 rooms with 24 suites and over 45,000 sq. ft. of event space handling events from 10 to 1,500. The hotel's focus on culture creates an environment for team members to thrive and provides opportunities to grow responsible and advance their careers, which is part of our Southern Difference!
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: The Hotel at the University of Maryland seeks a dynamic, engaging, experienced association sales professional who has demonstrated the ability to pursue, build, and fortify relationships in the association community. The ideal leader is an aggressive prospector with market-leading closing skills and the ability to lead by example while working within a strong and outgoing team environment.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU: Live an active engagement in the sales process, from prospecting to closing
Negotiate guest room rates and/or hotel services within approved booking guidelines
Accurately produce and review all sales contracts, rate agreements
Work closely with other hotel departments to facilitate services agreed upon by the sales office and prospective clients
Actively prospect & qualify new business, including outside direct sales and out-of-market travel from time to time
Arrange and conduct special events, site inspections, and off-site presentations for potential clients
Participate in appropriate organizations, networking events, and attend trade shows per market segment
Produce monthly sales-related reports & sales forecasts for assigned areas of responsibility
Track activities in the Hotel's sales and catering system, including all notes, actions, and details related to sales activities
Acknowledge all guests and respond promptly to their needs, however busy and whatever time of day
Achieve monthly sales goals
Ensure unresolved incidents are reported to the Manager/Supervisor
Familiarity with all hotel services/features and local attractions/activities to respond to guest inquiries accurately
Contribute to the team's success by accomplishing tasks and assisting with projects as needed
Maintain knowledge and compliance with departmental policies, service procedures, and standards
Strong ability to work independently
Availability during peak operating times, i.e.: Weekends, Holidays, and Special Events
Work as a team member to ensure our guests have the best possible experience
Attend department meetings and training sessions as necessary
Support Southern Management's Mission, Vision, and Values
Comply with all Southern Management's policies and procedures
Perform various other duties as assigned by the Manager
Lead by example, be a positive example for team in action and attitude
Delegate work as appropriate, clearly stating objectives and time-line requirements to appropriate departmental team members as appropriate
Work collaboratively with others to analyze and improve work processes
Positive interaction with all levels of management and vendors
JOB KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: Professional appearance
Knowledge of hotel and food & beverage operations
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Delphi experience is a plus
Organized and detail-oriented
Excellent time management skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Sound leadership and managerial skills
Ability to work effectively in stressful, high-pressure situations while maintaining composure and guest satisfaction
Technical knowledge and competency in necessary systems and software:
[Outlook, Word, Excel, Delphi, etc.]
REQUIREMENTS: 4+ years of demonstrated hotel sales experience, preferably working within association markets
High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associate or bachelor's degree in business or relevant field preferred
