Event Sales Account Executive

Woodward Recruitment; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job description

Excellent opportunity for an Event Sales Account Executive to join the UK's leading organisation representing the superyacht, leisure craft and small commercial marine sector.

The role is focused on the exhibition space at marine events throughout the year, with particular emphasis on the annual Boat Show.

You will be responsible for managing existing exhibitors and securing new exhibitors through the allocation and sale of exhibition space at events, including the flagship Southampton International Boat Show.

This role requires strong account management, proactive sales skills, and a problem-solving mindset, particularly in floorplan design and space optimisation. Providing exceptional customer service is a key element of this position.

Key responsibilities for the Event Sales Account Executive will include:

1. Selling and Allocating Exhibition Space:
   Allocate and sell exhibition space at events.
   Identify and secure new exhibitors while maintaining relationships with existing ones.
   Achieve revenue targets for each event as outlined in the annual P&L.


2. Account Management & Customer Service:
   Increase customer satisfaction and loyalty through effective communication and support.
   Conduct proactive sales calls, meetings, and relationship-building activities.
   Handle exhibitor issues professionally, ensuring smooth event planning and execution.


3. Floorplan & Event Coordination:
   Manage and optimise floor plans, ensuring effective space utilisation.
   Work collaboratively with exhibitors and other stakeholders to maximise event potential.


4. Process Improvement & Sales Strategy:
   Continuously enhance the sales process to improve exhibitor engagement.
   Provide insights and feedback to refine event sales strategies.


5. Administration & Reporting:
   Ensure administration is up to date, including processing contracts, raising invoices, and reporting.
   Maintain accurate records within CRM and other relevant systems.

The role of Event Sales Account Executive requires the following:

1. Strong sales and account management experience.
2. Exhibition/event sales background advantageous, but training will be provided.
3. Excellent customer service and relationship-building skills.
4. Proven problem-solving abilities, particularly in space allocation and floorplan design.
5. Strong negotiation skills to maximise space yield and exhibitor satisfaction.
6. High level of attention to detail and organisational skills.
7. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
8. Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics) and AutoCAD is advantageous.
9. Ability to prioritise workload and work independently while being a strong team player.
10. Understanding of budgets, sales planning, and sales strategy.
11. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
12. Ideally experience in the marine industry.

This is a hybrid role, requiring min 2 days per week at the Head Office in Southampton. It's a full-time Monday to Friday role, 34 hours per week with the potential for such other hours as may be required to fulfil the role. There may be occasional weekend work including travel to other shows in the UK and abroad.

NB: It is essential that you can start a new role immediately after the interview process.

If you feel you meet the above criteria, please apply immediately as the role is available now.