South Africa: Account Executive – MICE posted by Career Custodians

About the Role

As an Account Executive: MICE, you will drive revenue and foster partnerships with key trade agents within the industry. Your focus will be on cultivating strong relationships with MICE companies, PCOs, production companies, government institutions, and other relevant businesses to promote and sell Village N Life properties and services.

Key Responsibilities

• In-depth knowledge of the VNL hotels, facilities, services, amenities especially pertaining to VNL Trade products.
• Conduct training sessions and product presentations for trade partners to enhance their knowledge of VNL properties, services, and unique selling points.
• Organise special appreciation events or personalised gestures for agents to strengthen relationships and foster loyalty.
• Proactively engage with agents to understand their upcoming needs and align VNL’s offerings accordingly.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in sales or business development, preferably within the hospitality industry or a related field.
• Opera Experience and knowledge preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey information, respond to inquiries, and maintain professional correspondence with trade agents.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 or equivalent

Customer Service

• Anticipate and exceed the expectations of trade agents, providing personalised attention and solutions to enhance their experience.
• Proactively follow up with trade agents after their guests’ stays or events, demonstrating a commitment to their satisfaction.

Sales Strategy

• Identify, target, establish, and maintain relationships with Trade Partners, including PCO’s (Professional Conference Organizers), MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), Government entities, Production companies, and Corporate clients.
• Develop tailored sales pitches and proposals that align with the unique needs and preferences of individual agents.

Customer Relations

• Maintain regular communication with partners to ensure strong working relationships and promptly address their needs and concerns.
• Assist in investigating and resolving customer complaints raised by partners, demonstrating commitment to their satisfaction.

Administration

• Ensure accurate and up-to-date records of all account interactions, bookings, and agreements in the CRM system.
• Prepare contracts, addendums, and other documentation for account agreements, collaborating with legal teams as needed.

Product Development

• Collaborate with VNL’s operations team to identify potential enhancements or new services that cater specifically to the needs of agents.
• Pilot and test new offerings with select agents to gather feedback before wider implementation.