The Director of Venues Sales is an integral part of the Department of Athletics and Business Advancement teams. The Director of Venue Sales uses their extended knowledge, experience, and expertise to work with the University, alumni, outside constituents, local businesses, community organizations, and community members to generate revenue producing business for the Athletics and Business Advancement venues by selling meeting, conference and programming space as well as catering options.
From a day-to-day perspective, the DOVS serves as a one-stop-shop educating clients on space that best suits their needs and by utilizing access to all venues calendar to identify available dates.
The DOVS negotiates external rates, coordinates the schedule for external events and ensures effective on-site management of external events. Actively promotes Ohio State as a venue for activities consistent with the University mission throughout the year. Provides vision, solicits, plans and directs high quality events, camps and conference activities with specific emphasis on adding new outside groups and revenue generating activities to the Business Advancement & Athletics portfolio consistent with the universitys mission and goals.
Provides personal attention to clients and assures the highest level of service; communicates rates and contracts; conducts site visits; oversees client follow up after events to receive feedback and review charges for billing; develops methods to receive feedback; prospects for new business by following up on new leads, contacting former customers, keeping up-to-date on current customers' needs and industry trends; develops, creates and implements a marketing plan and brand identity while working with event services, marketing and the web development team to incorporate web site updates and social media strategies; researches competitive facilities; is responsible for Business Advancement participation in conferencing, special event and other applicable trade shows; represents Business Advancement & Athletics at community or university functions; builds strong relationships with other departments within the greater university; act as the financial manager for assigned events and oversees vendor agreements and payments; assist in hiring, training, scheduling and supervising of event staff (Redcoats, Ushers, Guest Attendants).
Builds and fosters relationships with partners such as hotel managers, attraction managers, convention/meeting planners and other stakeholders; works with venue managers to ensure the best possible event experience for our clients from sales through event execution and billing.
Keeps up to date on current customer needs and industry trends by attending conferences and networking events. Maintains a well-informed working knowledge of facilities, attraction, and service both public and private available in Columbus including business practices and market comparisons and analysis; participates in departmental and relevant sales meetings with facilities, University Hospitality District, and leads the Event Venue Marketing Consortium.
Prepares and presents reports and proposals using verbal, written and graphic presentation materials; performs other duties as assigned.
This position will require working some nights and weekends.
Minimum Education Required Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Advanced degree in relevant field may be desirable. 4 years of relevant experience required. 4-8 years of relevant experience preferred.
