Job Title: Director of Convention Center Sales
Department: Sales & Marketing
Status: Exempt, Salaried
Compensation Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Compensation is negotiable for the right candidate with strong leadership and operations experience.
Benefits Medical, Dental & Vision (per MCCC policies), State Retirement (18.4% match), life insurance, vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Position Overview:
The Director of Convention Center Sales & Marketing is responsible for leading and executing all convention, corporate, and special event sales efforts for the Mississippi Coast Convention Center. This role drives revenue through strategic sales planning, client relationship development, and coordination with local hospitality partners. This position serves as the primary sales leader for convention business, ensuring consistent pipeline development, strong client partnerships, and successful booking of events aligned with organizational goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Lead all convention center sales efforts including corporate, association, and special event business
- Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy aligned with revenue goals
- Establish sales targets and monitor performance against objectives
- Build a strong pipeline through prospecting, networking, and industry engagement
- Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and booking systems (Momentus or similar preferred)
- Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and travel as needed
- Client Development & Sales Execution
- Serve as primary point of contact for convention and event clients
- Prepare proposals, cost estimates, and contracts for prospective clients
- Negotiate rental rates, terms, and agreements
- Conduct site visits and presentations for prospective clients
- Maintain accurate records in booking systems
- Partnerships & Market Development
- Collaborate with the Convention & Visitors Bureau, hotels, and tourism partners
- Represent the facility at trade shows, industry events, and sales missions
- Maintain awareness of market trends and competitive venues
- Build and maintain long-term client relationships
- Communicate event requirements clearly to operations, finance, and event staff
- Ensure smooth transition from booking to event execution
- Collaborate with marketing on sales materials and campaigns
- Administration & Reporting
- Track and report sales activity, pipeline, and revenue performance
- Assist in developing annual sales goals and forecasts
- Maintain contracts, documentation, and compliance with policies
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in convention, hospitality, or venue sales
- Minimum of three (3) years in a leadership or supervisory role
- Proven track record of generating new business and closing deals
- Valid State Driver License.
Skills and Abilities
- Strong leadership and organizational skills.
- Excellent customer service and communication abilities.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple events simultaneously.
- Strong financial and reporting skills.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality, or related field preferred
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
- Must complete pre-hire background check
