Successful, profitable hospitality properties tend to have a great Marketing and Sales Department headed up by an effective Manager. The hospitality industry is highly competitive and good marketing is vital to the continued profitability of a hotel. The Marketing and Sales Manager is the person who controls the marketing, advertising, promoting and sales of the hotel’s products in order to make financial success a reality.

What does a Marketing and Sales Manager do?

A Marketing and Sales Manager manages the marketing strategy, advertising, promoting and sales of a hospitality property’s products (eg. rooms). He/she also manages the hotel as a brand, or makes sure the hotel is a true representative of a brand, for example a property management group such as Three Cities. It’s the Marketing and Sales Manager’s job to present the hotel to the public or to the hotel’s target market as a desirable location to stay overnight, go on holiday, host business functions, or hold events.

Marketing and Sales Manager responsibilities

The Marketing and Sales Manager is responsible for: •    Successfully promoting and managing the brand •    Working with advertising agencies •    Managing relationships with agencies and partners •    Overseeing budgets for advertising, marketing, and promotions •    Monitoring competition •    Supervising the Marketing and Sales Department staff •    Generating new ideas for customer incentives and accommodation or business packages and other sales and marketing duties.

Who does the Marketing and Sales Manager report to?

The Marketing and Sales Manager reports to the General Manager.

Who reports to the Marketing and Sales Manager?

Staff who report to the Marketing and Sales Manager may include: •    Sales Manager •    Sales Executive •    Public Relations Manager •    Public Relations Assistant •    Marketing Assistant •    Convention Service Manager •    Revenue Manager

Qualifications

A Marketing and Sales Manager should have a hospitality diploma and experience in the hospitality industry.

Skills

A Marketing and Sales Manager must: •    Work well with people •    Have fantastic presentation skills •    Be an excellent negotiator •    Have exceptional communication skills •    Use current technology for the benefit of the hospitality property, for example social media such as blogs, twitter and RSS feeds if they can be used appropriately •    Think creatively to come up with exciting new campaigns •    Own a driver’s licence and a vehicle

Working conditions

A Marketing and Sales Manager usually works traditional business hours but needs to be flexible as he/she may be required to entertain clients after hours.

Earning potential

A Marketing and Sales Manager can earn up to R35 000/month.

Job opportunities

A Marketing and Sales Manager can work at a variety of hospitality properties. Hotels, lodges, resorts, guest farms and cruise ships all require Marketing and Sales professionals.

Wrap up

A Marketing and Sales Manager is responsible for marketing and promoting a hospitality property, managing brands and supervising staff. This position requires a bright, creative mind that’s good with people and numbers. Could it be your dream career? Check in next week for more info on awesome careers in the hospitality industry!