Director of Sales & Event Management

Position Summary

The Director of Sales & Event Management (SEM) at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel is responsible for overseeing and leading the Sales, Event Coordination, and Event Services departments. This position plays a critical role in the planning, coordination, and execution of conferences and events, ensuring alignment with departmental goals and Georgia Center standards. The SEM Director provides strategic direction, fosters team development, and ensures operational efficiency across the division.

The role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including the development of sales strategies to maximize revenue, the oversight of departmental budgets, and the establishment of financial agreements with clients. In addition, the Director is tasked with maintaining strong relationships with clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction, and continuously improving processes to enhance operational effectiveness and client experience.

This position is a key liaison between the SEM division and other departments within the Georgia Center, playing a vital role in cross‑functional collaboration and ensuring seamless coordination of event services. The SEM Director also represents the Georgia Center in the broader hospitality and business community, staying attuned to trends and opportunities that impact the center's success. They will oversee the internship program for Hospitality & Food Industry Management (HFIM) students at the Georgia Center. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, a strong leader, and a results‑oriented individual with deep experience in sales, event management, and financial oversight.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• A degree from an accredited university in hospitality, business or a related field preferred in order to receive full consideration
• Experience in event planning and sales in a continuing education environment
• Extensive knowledge of and experience in hospitality sales and event coordination, including a general understanding of audiovisual technology—Certified Meeting Professional designation is preferred
• Experience with planning and budget management and supervision of an organization that is self‑supported
• Experience developing and implementing strategic plans
• Experience managing marketing and promotional activities
• Strong written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to foster partnerships among academic, community and other stakeholders
• Demonstrated commitment to the professional development of staff
• Demonstrated experience to work independently as well as in a collaborative manner, with employee groups, constituents and/or community members
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service

Physical Demands

Sit in front of computer for extended periods of time

Additional Schedule Information

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Must be willing and able to work evenings and weekends as necessary

Is Driving a Responsibility of This Position?

Yes

Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes

Does this Position Have Operation, Access, or Control of Financial Resources?

Yes

Does this Position Require a P-Card?

No

Credit and P-Card Policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Leadership and Team Management

Percentage of time: 50%

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the SEM division at the Georgia Center.
• Set departmental goals and objectives, aligned with organizational goals.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance of leaders in the Sales, Event Coordination, and Event Services departments.
• Define performance expectations, ensure accountability, and provide ongoing informal feedback, coaching, mentoring, and conflict resolution.
• Develop and foster supportive working relationships within the team and across departments, motivating and engaging staff to achieve divisional goals.

Event Coordination and Client Management

Percentage of time: 15%

• Efficiently coordinate events and services as outlined in event agreements, adhering to Georgia Center standards and processes.
• Oversee the fulfillment of event services by coordinating with other departments (hotel reservations, room block management, menu selections, A/V requirements, registration, vendor coordination, etc.).
• Ensure ongoing communication with clients throughout the entire event coordination process to ensure satisfaction.
• Develop and cultivate strategies and systems for providing an efficient and superior client experience.
• Maintain and foster long‑term client relationships to build trust and repeat business.

Financial Oversight and Budget Management

Percentage of time: 15%

• Oversee departmental budgets, set priorities, and monitor financial impact of events.
• Review and approve financial documents, including BEOs, invoices, and honoraria, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Negotiate financial agreements with clients to ensure profitability and financial sustainability.
• Analyze departmental expenditures with a focus on ROI and profitability, ensuring budgetary control.
• Provide input on budget priorities, facility renovations, and strategic decisions that impact the Georgia Center's operations.

Sales Strategy, Marketing, and Business Development

Percentage of time: 10%

• Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve revenue goals and maximize profits.
• Cultivate new accounts, maintain existing accounts, and contribute to team booking goals.
• Represent the Georgia Center in the hospitality and business community, staying informed on trends and developments that could impact operations.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to develop and implement marketing strategies for group sales and manage the Georgia Center's online presence.
• Evaluate business opportunities, providing strategic input and guidance on potential ventures and partnerships.

Manage Internship Program

Percentage of time: 10%

• Lead the strategic development, evaluation, and enhancement of the Georgia Center's internship program, ensuring it aligns with the mission and goals of the Center and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences' Hospitality and Food Industry Management program.
• Oversee the creation of clear processes, documentation, and sustainable recruitment and placement strategies for the internship program.
• Develop and implement scholarship opportunities to support student engagement and provide financial support for participants in the internship program.
• Foster stronger mentorship opportunities for students by connecting them with staff and leadership, ensuring a rich learning environment.
• Coordinate cross‑departmental collaboration to ensure meaningful connections are established between students and staff, enhancing overall program impact.
• Analyze program data to identify areas of improvement, track student success, and report on program outcomes to stakeholders.

EEO Policy Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( ).