Sales & Events Development Manager

About the role

The Sanford Center is a premier regional event facility offering spaces for various types of events. The Sales & Events Development Manager drives revenue through event sales, vendor participation, sponsorship acquisition, and the development of new in-house events.

Key Responsibilities

• Home Grown Event Management
• Oversee planning, execution, and growth of all Sanford Center–initiated events.
• Manage vendor sales, booth assignments, registration processes, and assist with on-site coordination.
• Develop sponsorship packages and secure sponsorships for recurring and new home-grown events.
• Maintain event budgets, timelines, and operational needs.
• Analyze event performance and implement strategies for year-over-year growth.
• Sales & Business Development
• Conduct outbound sales outreach—phone calls, emails, and in-person visits—to promote The Sanford Center’s event capabilities.
• Build and maintain strong regional relationships with businesses, organizations, and event planners.
• Create customized proposals for meetings, training, conferences, expos, and trade shows.
• Identify and pursue new market segments and revenue opportunities.
• New Event Creation
• Research regional trends and identify opportunities for new in-house events.
• Develop event concepts, proposals, budgets, and revenue projections.
• Partner with internal teams in marketing, operations, and logistics.
• Build vendors and sponsor networks for future events.
• Collaboration & Internal Coordination
• Work with operations, marketing, finance, and leadership teams.
• Communicate event needs and expectations clearly.
• Ensure a positive client experience from start to finish.

Qualifications & Experience

• 3–5 years of experience in sales, event planning, hospitality, or venue management.
• Demonstrated success in outbound sales or sponsorship selling.
• Experience coordinating events or managing vendors.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Self-starter with organizational strength and ability to multitask.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and office software.
• Comfortable with regional travel.
• Creative, entrepreneurial mindset.

Preferred Attributes

• High-energy, professional, and outgoing.
• Results driven with closing skills.
• Excellent customer service.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Collaborative yet independent.
• Thrives in fast-paced environments.
• Passion for community engagement.