UC External Event Sales Manager

$60,000 - $64,000/Yr

Colorado Mesa University - Grand Junction, CO

Full-time - Mid Level

Grand Junction, CO

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The UC External Event Sales Manager at Colorado Mesa University is a pivotal role responsible for developing, recruiting, and servicing primarily off-campus clients for the University Center. This position requires the Manager to build strong client relationships and act as a liaison between off-campus clients and on-campus resources to ensure the successful execution of events. The Manager will work closely with the Director of the University Center and will be expected to work evenings and weekends as needed. The role demands outstanding customer service skills, the ability to develop marketing strategies to attract new clientele, and a keen attention to detail to meet both client and campus needs effectively. In this role, the Manager will proactively attract prospects through a comprehensive yearly marketing plan, networking events, social media outreach, email introductions, and cold calls, while also nurturing existing client relationships. The Manager will be responsible for researching, coordinating, and implementing marketing strategies to promote campus venues, particularly the University Center, to generate interest and leads among off-campus clients. Leadership for all external events on campus is a key responsibility, which includes overseeing conferencing, corporate meetings, parties, and other events. The Manager will be present during events to address any issues and assist clients in executing successful events, negotiating event pricing in compliance with University Center policies. The Manager will handle client event logistics, ensuring that all needs are met, including facility and technology requirements. They will generate client proposals, rate quotes, and manage reservations in close coordination with campus personnel. Financial responsibilities include creating accurate invoices, resolving discrepancies, and collaborating with the UC Director and Business Office on collections. Regular financial and operational reports will be prepared for management use, and the Manager will engage Catering Services to ensure seamless food service for events. Additionally, the Manager will assist in recruiting and supervising the UC Student Utility Crew, providing direction on meeting room layouts and customer service expectations. They will also analyze utilization reports to improve marketing strategies and budget recommendations. The role requires discretion in managing supplies for event management and making recommendations for quality improvements that add value to off-campus clients. Familiarity with AV equipment and the ability to provide backup support for on-campus events are also essential components of this position. The Manager will contribute to long-term business objectives, including annual budget planning, and collaborate with UC staff to enhance service delivery to all clients.

Responsibilities

• Proactively attract prospects through yearly marketing plan, networking events, social media, email introductions, and cold calls.
• Research, coordinate, and implement UC marketing strategy to promote campus venues to off-campus clients.
• Provide leadership for all external clientele events on campus, including conferencing, corporate meetings, parties, and events.
• Negotiate event pricing based on Manager judgment and in compliance with University Center policies.
• Manage client event logistics by understanding the scope of the event, timelines, and determining facility and technology needs.
• Generate all client proposals, rate quotes, bids, room rental reservations, and layouts in coordination with campus personnel.
• Create timely and accurate invoices for clients and resolve discrepancies.
• Prepare regular financial and operational reports for management use.
• Engage Catering Services early in the process on client's food requests.
• Work with the UC Internal Event Coordinator to analyze UC utilization reports to improve marketing strategies.
• Assist in the recruiting and supervision of the UC Student Utility Crew.
• Provide direction regarding meeting room layouts and customer service expectations.
• Facilitate monthly Student Utility Crew meetings and promote team building.
• Ensure facility appearance and event setups are consistent with requests.
• Manage and purchase supplies for event management within approved budget.
• Identify needs and make recommendations for quality improvement for off-campus clients.
• Understand how to work with all AV equipment within the building.
• Provide backup support for executing large on-campus client events.
• Provide input to business objectives for long-term goals including annual budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 3 years of hospitality experience in event sales, coordination, and management.
• Ability to work many evenings and weekends, with a flexible day schedule.
• Excellent customer service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Team player with a positive attitude and relationship-building skills.
• Experience in budget management, marketing, and reporting.
• Sound computer and administrative skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in developing formal bids and proposals for potential events.
• Familiarity with office products, College Net R25 scheduling software, and All Seated layout software.
• Proven sales record demonstrating successful event sales, coordination, and management.
• Master's degree or seeking a Master's in Event Sales/Management, Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
• Bi-lingual.
• Demonstrated ability to positively represent the University Center and Colorado Mesa University.
• Experience with and knowledge of AV event space technology.

Benefits

• Base salary of $60,000.00 - 64,000.00, commensurate with education and experience.
• Full health and retirement benefits package.