Dallas Zoo Management Careers

The Group Sales Manager is responsible for the planning and coordination of corporate and private events at the Dallas Zoo, a 501C3 non-profit organization.  

 

This position will handle all aspects of the Zoo’s Group Sales program and will possess outstanding communication skills for successful client acquisition and organizing event logistics and resources across multiple departments; including the Zoo’s exclusive catering partner Service Systems Associates, Inc. (SSA).   Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, creating proposals, conducting site tours, managing requests and resources, working with teams and other stakeholders, coordinating timelines, and as well as completing tasks to accomplish results.  

 

The Dallas Zoo offers some unique site rental locations geared towards creating memorable events that enhance and contribute to the Zoo’s mission of engaging people and saving wildlife.  

 

• Solicits corporate and private clients for a variety of corporate events, individual receptions, weddings and social gatherings at the Dallas Zoo.  This position generates new and return business and initiates the sales process by networking, scheduling appointments, cold calling, and attending trade shows (when applicable) and working with the Zoo’s marketing team. 

• Successful candidate will build rapport with clients, effectively communicating venue needs, and executing contracts to meet sales projections.

• Consistently responds to client requests in a timely manner. Works directly with clients and is the primary contact for those client relationships. 

• Plans, upsells  and details functions with the client including space requirements, event times, equipment needs, animal visibility, venue access, animal and guest safety, etc…

• Facilitates site tours and organizes Zoo and SSA support staff when needed for these visits.

• Creates and distributes detailed contracts, proposals and event memos.

• Conducts and participates in event planning and update meetings on a regular basis.

• Works collaboratively with other zoo departments and SSA to achieve successful events. Insures open and constructive working relationships with all internal departments involved in supporting events. 

• Attends booked events as needed to ensure service level.

• Creates and adheres to existing and newly established sales guidelines, policies, and procedures.

• Maintains client database and zoo event calendar.

• Develop and achieves sales program goals outlined in the Zoo’s annual budget.

• Recommend sales programs or initiatives to build client base and event frequency.

• Provide supervision for team members working events and works collaboratively with staff supervisor when coaching, training, mentoring and counseling as needed to meet event objectives.  

• Uses good judgment and make can sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.

• Ensures work is performed in a safe manner and comply with environmental standards

• Operate various office and event equipment, computers and radio systems.

• Responsible for post event follow up/survey, continued client relationship and event billings.

• Represents the zoo professionally at all times.

• Supports the Zoo’s sustainability and conservation efforts.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

• Proven track record in both sales and successful client relationships.

• Five years’ experience in event sales programs, preferably working within the hospitality, entertainment, or attraction industry.

• One year of supervisory experience preferred.

• BA,  BS or equivalent degree or work experience equivalent

• Industry experience and knowledge of hospitality and event logistics.

• Creative, innovative with a strong attention to detail. 

• Works collaboratively with others. 

• Strong organizational and planning skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to effectively manage staff and work activities.

• Strong understanding of catering and event coordination procedures 

• Proficient in use of Microsoft Word, Excel Outlook and PowerPoint. 

• Must understand the value and need for meeting deadlines and communicating them effectively. 

• Self-starter and self-motivated with ability to work independently, find appropriate solutions with little or no supervision at the time. Can take initiative to solve issues as they arise and accept constructive criticism as provided.

• Courteous and accountable in all situations.

• Willingness to be an integral part of a team and work together to accomplish goals.

• Must be able to establish and maintain welcoming and cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including guests, vendors, volunteers and zoo staff. 

• Commitment to the mission and values of the Dallas Zoo.

• Preferred experience with Caterease.

 

 

 

• Regularly works daytime hours and occasionally works irregular hours, including nights, holidays and weekends, as needed and when events dictate.  

• Ability to work indoors and outdoors with exposure to cold and heat. 

• Ability to exert light physical effort in the course of work. This may involve some lifting, carrying, moving, pushing, and/or pulling of objects/materials of medium weight (25 pounds). Tasks may also involve significant periods of standing or walking outside during events, as well as during event set-up or break-down times. 

• Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.

• Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.