Group Sales Manager

Visit Fort Collins•Fort Collins, CO

10h•Onsite

About The Position

The Group Sales Manager is responsible for generating new group meeting and event business through proactive prospecting, direct outreach, and strong relationship‑building with meeting and event planners. As part of Visit Fort Collins’ mission to attract visitors, meetings, conferences, sporting events, and other overnight stays to the city—and to drive increased visitor spending in the community—this role plays a key part in strengthening the local economy. Reporting to the VP of Sales, the Group Sales Manager focuses on creating qualified business opportunities that deliver measurable results for Fort Collins lodging partners. This growth‑oriented position requires a self‑motivated, goal‑driven professional with a proven ability to increase group bookings and contribute to the overall economic impact of the destination.

Requirements

3–5 years of experience in hospitality sales (Hotel, Destination Marketing Organization, Event Venue) or a related field is required.
Proficient sales acumen with a track record of meeting or exceeding goals.
Strong listening, negotiation, and presentation skills to engage with clients and stakeholders.
Experience managing CRM platforms (e.g., Simpleview) and lead management tools such as Cvent Navigator.
Familiarity with third-party meeting planner organizations such as HelmsBriscoe and industry associations, including MPI and CSAE.
Creative mindset to identify new opportunities for Visit Fort Collins partners.
Confident and motivated personality with a genuine passion for building and nurturing relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Tourism, Sales, or related field.

Responsibilities

Proactively generate and close group leads, focusing on high-impact opportunities and off-peak months to maximize revenue potential.
Manage incoming Cvent leads, input and updates in Simpleview (SV), along with updating and providing relevant information for marketing on the platform.
Utilize the SV database for prospecting and managing bookings, Economic Impact Calculator (EIC) numbers, and related data.
Coordinate local and regional sales calls and meetings with industry partners to build collaborative relationships and explore business opportunities.
Work with Strategic Database Research, Cvent Planner Navigator, Hotel Resources, MINT+, and other relevant tools to generate and qualify group leads.
Foster strong relationships with 3rd party and independent event planners, demonstrating enthusiasm and professionalism in optimizing partnerships.
Determine and execute targeted “touches” to top clients, including gifts, events, and digital communications.
Engage with potential clients to provide destination recommendations, including options for restaurants, attractions, and off-site venues.
Plan and conduct site visits showcasing the destination’s unique offerings and host clients to create memorable experiences.
Manage Destination Colorado Meetings, Meeting Professionals International, and Colorado Society of Association Executives membership opportunities and engagement.
Attend relevant trade shows to engage with new and existing meeting planners.
Assist the VP of Sales and Marketing team in determining the next steps to capture more Tour & Travel business.
Assist with quarterly planner and hotel newsletters in collaboration with the Marketing team, providing relevant content.
Utilize a CRM system to manage and document daily tasks, track sales/lead activity, and manage sales goals.
Qualify incoming leads by gathering essential information — history, date flexibility, decision factors — to equip hotel partners for securing business.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including occasional nights, weekends, and holidays, and travel as needed.
Assist with other duties as assigned.