Experience Olympia & Beyond · 17 hours ago
Group Sales Manager
Olympia, WA
Full-time
Hybrid
Entry, Mid Level
$62K/yr - $72K/yr
1+ years expExperience Olympia & Beyond is seeking a Group Sales Manager responsible for generating and booking group business to enhance overnight stays and economic impact in Thurston County. The role involves proactive marketing to various groups and managing relationships with local tourism partners to ensure a competitive destination for group travel.
MarketingTourismTravel
Responsibilities
Develop and execute a group sales plan aligned with the EOB Annual Business & Marketing Plan and organizational priorities
Proactively generate leads and pursue group business across meetings, sports, SMERF, and group travel markets
Manage all group sales inquiries and RFPs, ensuring timely responses, competitive proposals, and strong partner alignment
Serve as the primary point of contact for planners throughout the sales process, from initial inquiry through booking
Coordinate and host site visits and familiarization tours that showcase Thurston County’s venues, accommodations, and experiences
Attend tradeshows, sales missions, and industry events to promote Thurston County as a group travel destination
Utilize the CRM system to track leads, bookings, and outcomes, producing reporting that demonstrates performance and economic impact
Maintain a qualified buyer database and lead distribution process that supports local partners
Lead the Olympia & Beyond Sports Commission with a focus on booking sports-related group business
Support all aspects of group sales efforts in coordination with the Film Commission and Wedding Collaborative, and others, as applicable
Build and maintain strong relationships with local hotels, venues, attractions, restaurants, and tourism partners
Serve as a visible ambassador for Experience Olympia & Beyond through regular site visits, check-ins, and in-person engagement
Collaborate with team to ensure Sports Facility Guides and Meeting Planner Guides are up to date and informative
Educate partners on group sales opportunities, RFP processes, and market trends to increase participation and readiness
Support partner participation in EOB programs related to group sales and sponsorships, as assigned
Lead outbound communication with industry contacts and local stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and trust
Maintain working knowledge of local, community and industry trends and highlights
Collaborate closely with the marketing team to align group sales efforts with destination marketing plan
Track, report, and share organization sales performance updates, market insights, and Thurston County lodging performance with internal leadership and stakeholders
Support board and stakeholder presentations related to group sales results and opportunities
Contribute to a collaborative, solutions-oriented team culture at Experience Olympia & Beyond
Qualification
Required
General sales experience, with demonstrated ability to prospect, build relationships, and close business in a results-driven environment
Proven ability to generate leads, respond to inquiries, and manage opportunities through a sales pipeline
Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent the organization professionally and persuasively
Experience using CRM systems to manage leads, track performance, and report outcomes
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace tools
Preferred
Experience in group sales, destination sales, hospitality sales, tourism, or a related field
Experience working with a destination marketing organization (DMO), convention & visitors bureau (CVB), or tourism-related organization
Familiarity with meetings, sports, SMERF, or group travel markets
Experience attending and working tradeshows, site visits, and sales missions
Knowledge of Thurston County or similar regional destinations
Ability to analyze sales data and translate insights into actionable strategies
Benefits
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Company
Experience Olympia & Beyond
Experience Olympia & Beyond is a destination marketing organization providing services to promote travel, tourism, and destination events.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Annette Pitts
Chief Executive Officer
Company data provided by crunchbase