Group Sales Manager at InterContinental Washington DC - The Wharf

IHG•Washington, DC

2h•$30 - $33•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Group Sales Manager to develop business through direct sales solicitation within an assigned territory or market segment. This role is responsible for generating new business opportunities, building strong client relationships, and driving revenue growth while representing one of the world's most iconic luxury hotel brands. Success in this role requires a passion for hospitality and a commitment to our service culture. We are looking for someone who is naturally charming by being approachable, confident, and respectful; who stays in the moment by understanding and anticipating client needs, taking ownership, and delivering results; and who makes every interaction memorable through industry knowledge, storytelling, and a personal style that creates meaningful connections. As a Group Sales Manager, you will be responsible for identifying, soliciting, and securing group business opportunities that contribute to the overall success and profitability of the hotel. You will develop and maintain relationships with corporate, association, social, and other key market segments to achieve and exceed room night, revenue, and market share goals. This role offers the opportunity to build meaningful partnerships, contribute directly to the hotel's success, and create exceptional experiences for our guests while working alongside a passionate and collaborative team.

Requirements

Some college coursework and 1–2 years of sales, catering, hospitality, or related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong knowledge of hospitality sales practices and customer relationship management.
Must be fluent in English; additional language skills are a plus.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong relationships with clients, guests, colleagues, and business partners while representing the hotel, brand, and company in a highly professional manner.
Strong written communication skills for preparing contracts, proposals, reports, correspondence, and sales presentations.
Solid analytical and mathematical abilities, including budgeting, forecasting, profit and loss concepts, percentages, and variance analysis.
Exceptional organizational, time management, problem-solving, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
The ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
A proactive sales mindset with a passion for prospecting, networking, and developing new business opportunities.
The ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
Ability and willingness to travel for client meetings, sales calls, trade shows, conventions, industry events, and training programs.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands require.
Willingness to entertain clients and attend networking events in accordance with company policies and guidelines.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in hotel operations, group sales, or food and beverage operations is preferred.
A valid driver's license may be required.

Responsibilities

Proactively prospecting, qualifying, and securing new business opportunities while nurturing existing client relationships.
Developing and executing strategic sales plans to maximize hotel revenue and occupancy.
Negotiating guest room rates, meeting space rentals, and hotel services within established guidelines.
Preparing, reviewing, and managing sales contracts, rate agreements, and event documentation with accuracy and attention to detail.
Conducting hotel site inspections, client meetings, presentations, and networking events to showcase the property's unique offerings.
Representing the hotel at industry trade shows, conventions, and sales missions within key feeder markets.
Collaborating closely with Operations, Revenue Management, Catering, Event Planning and other hotel departments to ensure seamless execution of client expectations and commitments.
Maintaining accurate client records, sales activities, forecasts, and reporting within designated sales systems.
Monitoring market trends, competitive activity, and customer needs to identify new business opportunities.
Participating in annual business planning, budgeting, and strategic sales initiatives.
Developing curated proposals that are tailored to client needs, while also meeting lead response deadlines.
Following up with clients before, during, and after events to ensure satisfaction, strengthen relationships, and secure future business.