Conferencing & Events Sales Manager Vacancy

Conferencing & Events
Sales Manager

Location: The Helix, DCU, Glasnevin
Hours per week: 35 hrs
Reporting to: General Manager
Term: Initial 12-Month Contract with a view to permanency

Salary: Depending on qualifications & experience.

About the Helix:

The Helix is a premier arts, entertainment, and conference venue located on the Dublin City University campus in Glasnevin, Dublin 9. Since its opening in 2002, it has become a sought-after destination for diverse events, from music and drama to sports, live TV productions, conferences and meetings. The Helix has been recognised with the “Best Purpose-Built Event Venue” award in Ireland twice, reflecting its commitment to excellence. We pride ourselves on our professionalism, operational excellence, and strong relationship management with both clients and customers, ensuring every event hosted at The Helix is executed flawlessly and exceeds expectations.

Job Description

As the Conferencing and Events Manager at The Helix, you will lead the conference and events department, driving revenue generation and ensuring exceptional service delivery. You will be responsible for business development, strategic planning, and overseeing the execution of all events. Your role will involve managing a portfolio of key accounts, optimising sales, and maintaining high standards of customer service. To execute conferences and events successfully, it is essential to liaise effectively with internal departments, ensuring seamless coordination and collaboration across all aspects of event planning and delivery.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, professionalism, excellent communication skills – both verbal and written, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive approach to managing a dynamic events schedule. A minimum of 3+ years of experience in a senior conferencing and events role within a venue, hotel, hospitality or event management company is required.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the entire sales process from enquiry to event delivery, ensuring professional and timely communication.
Build, maintain, and nurture client relationships while fostering strong connections with suppliers.
Maximise venue conference and event revenue opportunities.
Manage and service existing accounts while maintaining positive business relationships for repeat business and opportunities for organic growth.
Provide leadership, direction, and support to the events and operations team.
Communicate effectively across all departments to ensure seamless operations.
Prepare detailed operations/handover sheets for each event, clearly communicating client requirements to all relevant departments.
Create detailed proposal documents, often as part of a formal bidding process dictated by prospective customers and state agencies.
Review business plans/pipelines to identify gaps and ensure proactive efforts to fill capacity and meet set targets.
Upsell venue products and services to maximise revenue opportunities.
Monitor competition and identify opportunities by staying current on industry trends, market activities, and competitors.
Conduct private show rounds/site visits of the venue and occasionally represent the venue at scheduled events.
Represent the venue at trade exhibitions, events, and industry functions to increase overall awareness.
Assist with the annual budget creation and accurate monthly forecasting.
Contribute ideas and input to the sales and marketing plan to generate new business and drive revenue growth.
Participate in in-house meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Experience: A minimum of 3+ years in event management, ideally within a venue, hotel or hospitality environment. Proven experience in successfully delivering high-quality events is essential from enquiry to execution stage.
Clients: Familiarity and a full understanding of third-party booking sites, agents, PCI’s, DMC’s and convention bureaus
Leadership: Strong team management skills, with the ability to inspire, guide, and motivate colleagues.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional approach to engaging with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
Organisation: Highly organised with meticulous attention to detail, capable of managing multiple events simultaneously.
Problem-Solving: A creative thinker who can troubleshoot and resolve issues under pressure.
Customer Focus: Passionate about delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for guests.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with any venue management systems (Artifax is currently used) and a basic understanding of AV and technical terminology

TO APPLY:

Please submit a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, salary expectations, and an updated CV to info@thehelix.dcu.ie.

Please clearly state the role you are applying for in your application and email subject line: Conferencing & Events Sales Manager Position.

Closing Date for Applications: Wednesday 22nd January 2025.

The Helix is an equal opportunities employer.

Please note that recruitment agency assistance is not required at this time.