We are looking for an experienced Business Development Manager to drive our venue sales and social events to the next level. You will be an expert in selling spaces with a proven track record in proactive selling.
Reporting to the Head of Commercial Sales, you will play a pivotal role in the company's success, you will be responsible for generating revenue, driving growth and client acquisition across the venue portfolio.
This is both a proactive and reactive sales role (70/30% split expected) with a focus on both Village Underground & EartH.
Village Underground and EartH are renowned event spaces in London, offering a blend of industrial charm and contemporary design. With versatile spaces, including a theatre, halls, and outdoor terraces, both venues cater to corporate events of all sizes. From product launches and brand activations to conferences and celebrations, these venues provide a distinctive backdrop for memorable experiences.
Village Underground features a converted Victorian warehouse with exposed brick walls and high ceilings, while EartH is housed in a historic Art Deco building exuding elegance. Both venues offer state-of-the-art facilities, professional event management services, and bespoke catering options. With prime locations and unparalleled service, they are ideal choices for corporate events in London.
With a legacy of almost 20 years, the venues also hosts over 300,000 people annually and stages more than 500 performances. Over the years, we've worked with a diverse range of artists, including rising stars like Little Simz, Nubya Garcia, and Arlo Parks, as well as established names like Four Tet, A$AP Rocky, and Charli XCX. Additionally, EartH's Studio 36 provides free studio time, mentorship programs, and events for local young talent.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Client Acquisition
- You will strategise and adopt ways of reaching new prospective clients through taking initiative and proactive outreach.
- You will identify, prospect, and engage with potential corporate and private clients to understand their event needs and promote our venues as the ideal solution.
- You will be a strategic thinker and an outstanding communicator, with a proven track record of converting sales within both the corporate and private events industry.
Relationships
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, event planners, and industry stakeholders to generate repeat business and referrals.
- Having superb negotiation skills in both B2B and B2C account management. You will account manage clients to secure short, medium and long term business.
- You will strive to provide unrivaled service by developing and executing all our clients' visions from start to finish whilst maintaining these strong client relationships with ease and setting a strong example for the wider sales team.
Research
- You will stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and market developments to identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation.
Marketing
- Collaborate with the Head of Commercial Sales & Head of Marketing to develop targeted marketing campaigns and promotional materials to attract new clients and increase brand visibility.
- Identify and attend all relevant networking events in the industry representing both venues.
- Conduct effective and efficient site visits including FAM trips with key agencies and clients.
Other
- As a team player, you'll collaborate with the sales team while also demonstrating autonomy, effectively managing your own time to meet targets, particularly during peak periods.
- You will have experience creating weekly sales reports and be comfortable presenting them to senior management and stakeholders.
- You will be naturally positive with a drive to secure sales and deliver for your clients.
- You will support the team with in-bound large-scale enquiries.
- Any other business the company sees fit.
PERSON SPECIFICATIONS
- A proven track record of success in business development, sales, or account management roles, within the Events Industry.
- A strong network of contacts within the corporate events sector in London.
- Axcellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- An ability to work independently, prioritising tasks, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- A strategic thinker with a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM softwares.
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required for client hosting and attending networking events.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Events, Marketing or Hospitality Management or related field is preferred
- Knowledge of London's corporate events market and venues is a plus.
- Demonstrable ability to work with people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
- A good understanding of the challenges of working in the Music and/or Arts sectors and/or smaller independent businesses, and the ability to adapt to fluctuating business challenges and change.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Contract & Salary
Full time (42.5 hours/week)
Hybrid working
Salary £47,000-£50,000
Start date ASAP
Candidates who currently have a valid work permit allowing them to work in the UK for the duration of this contract are welcome to apply. Unfortunately, we are unable to consider applications for this role which would require us to obtain a certificate of sponsorship or permit to work in the UK.
To apply
Please email with your CV and a cover letter as separate PDF attachments.
Subject line Business Development Manager
Cover letter The Person Specifications will be used in our decision-making process for recruitment. It is essential that you address those requirements in your cover letter. Please give examples of how you have exhibited these requirements in your previous role(s). Be as specific as possible, we cannot guess or make assumptions, but will assess your application solely on the information provided.
Deadline 7 July 2024