SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:
A luxury boutique hotel in Durban is seeking a dynamic and commercially driven Sales & Marketing Manager to lead revenue generation, brand growth, strategic partnerships, and market development initiatives. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious hospitality sales professional who understands the luxury travel market and has a proven ability to drive occupancy, increase direct bookings, secure corporate business, and create innovative marketing campaigns that elevate brand awareness and revenue performance. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in positioning the hotel as a preferred destination for leisure travellers, corporate clients, events, and exclusive hospitality experiences. The Role As Sales & Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing strategic sales and marketing initiatives designed to maximise occupancy, grow revenue, strengthen the hotel's market presence, and build long-term client relationships. You will work closely with the General Manager and Directors to identify new business opportunities, manage key accounts, increase direct booking channels, and drive the hotel's overall commercial performance. This role requires a proactive professional who combines strong sales expertise with creative marketing capabilities and a deep understanding of luxury hospitality trends. Key Responsibilities Sales & Revenue Generation Develop and implement sales strategies that drive occupancy and revenue growth. Create attractive accommodation, dining, event, and experience packages. Identify and secure new corporate accounts, travel partners, and business opportunities. Build and maintain long-term relationships with corporate clients, travel agents, tour operators, and event planners. Generate new revenue streams through strategic partnerships and collaborations. Drive group bookings, conferences, private events, and special occasion business. Manage the sales pipeline from lead generation through to conversion. Client Relationship Management Conduct hotel tours and presentations for prospective clients and partners. Prepare proposals, quotations, contracts, and service agreements. Maintain strong relationships with existing clients to encourage repeat business. Manage and update CRM systems to ensure accurate client and prospect information. Develop loyalty and return guest initiatives that increase guest retention. Marketing & Brand Development Develop and execute marketing campaigns that enhance brand awareness and drive bookings. Coordinate promotional activities across digital and traditional marketing channels. Manage social media, website content, and online brand positioning in collaboration with service providers. Monitor market trends and guest booking behaviour to identify opportunities. Support the development of luxury brand positioning strategies. Assist with public relations, partnerships, and hospitality networking initiatives. Market Development & Commercial Strategy Conduct regular competitor and market analysis. Identify opportunities within corporate, leisure, wedding, events, and tourism sectors. Build relationships with travel trade partners and tourism stakeholders. Develop strategies to increase direct bookings and reduce reliance on third-party booking platforms. Monitor occupancy trends and contribute to revenue forecasting and planning. Minimum Requirements Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Sales, Marketing, Business Management, Tourism, or a related field. Minimum 5 years' experience in hospitality sales, hotel sales, business development, or hotel marketing. Proven track record of achieving revenue, occupancy, and sales growth targets. Experience within a boutique hotel, luxury hotel, resort, lodge, hospitality group, or tourism environment. Strong corporate sales, account management, and networking experience. Knowledge of hospitality revenue management principles. Experience using CRM platforms and hospitality reservation systems. Excellent proposal writing, presentation, and negotiation skills. Strong understanding of digital marketing and direct booking strategies. Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel for business development activities. Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is a commercially astute hospitality professional who thrives on building relationships, identifying opportunities, and driving measurable business growth. They are equally comfortable networking with corporate decision-makers, developing marketing campaigns, and analysing performance data to maximise revenue opportunities. They possess a passion for luxury hospitality and understand how exceptional guest experiences contribute to long-term business success. What We're Looking For Strong hospitality sales and business development expertise Excellent networking and relationship-building skills Proven ability to generate revenue and secure new business Exceptional communication and presentation abilities Strong negotiation and contract management skills Commercial and analytical mindset Experience with CRM systems and sales reporting Knowledge of luxury hospitality and tourism markets Creative marketing and brand-building capabilities Self-motivated, proactive, and results-driven approach Passion for guest experience and hospitality excellence If you are a driven hospitality sales professional looking to play a key role in the growth and success of a luxury boutique hotel, we would love to hear from you.
