Business Development Manager - Association Congresses & Conventions

London & Partners; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agency in London is seeking a Business Development Manager to promote the city as a prime destination for international congresses. The role involves research, account management, and collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance London's reputation in the global market. Candidates should possess strong sales skills and experience in the hospitality sector, with opportunities for hybrid working and generous benefits.

Benefits

30 days' holiday plus UK public holidays

Employer pension contribution

Medical Cash Plan

Opportunity to work in a fast-paced, inclusive environment

Qualifications

• Experience in sales within the business tourism or hospitality sector.
• Proven relationship-building skills and ability to work in a target-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Research international congress opportunities suitable for London.
• Manage a portfolio of key accounts and congress organizer relationships.
• Create engaging bids that reflect London's brand.

Skills

Sales

Account Management

Research

Communication

Relationship Building

Tools

Salesforce

Microsoft Office

Job description

Business Development Manager - Association Congresses & Conventions

Application Deadline: 23 May 2025

Department: Marketing, Destination and Commercial

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: London

Compensation: £40,000 - £44,000 / year

Description

We are a dynamic team focused on attracting international business events to London, securing economic benefits for the city and strengthening London's reputation as the world's premier city to host events. As part of the London Convention Bureau team, this role involves attracting international congresses and conventions within a competitive global environment. The position requires strong research and business development skills, account management, creative bid production, and relationship-building experience.

London & Partners is the 'Growth agency for London', dedicated to championing London's excellence and positioning it as the ideal destination for business, events, and tourism. Our mission is to promote London with a confident voice to attract investments, events, and visitors.

Purpose of the Role

To be a key member of the association sales team, promoting London to the international, non-profit, member-based associations sector, and some corporate clients. The role involves identifying potential congresses to bid for and host in London, contributing to the city's economic growth and aligning with L&P's objectives. It includes collaboration with stakeholders and some overseas travel.

Key Tasks

• Research international congress opportunities suitable for London.
• Collaborate with venues, hotels, and tourism partners to develop bids and promote London's offerings.
• Create engaging bids that reflect London's brand and appeal to clients.
• Support the development and execution of the annual sales and marketing plans.
• Manage a portfolio of key accounts and congress organizer relationships.
• Handle new inquiries via phone, email, and website, and facilitate site visits.
• Maintain accurate data in the Salesforce system.
• Identify new leads from sources like ICCA and trade magazines.
• Assist in research projects to generate new business and international leads.
• Contribute to bid documents, manage relationships, and oversee data for ICCA rankings.
• Organize and deliver sales missions and appointments.
• Attend trade shows, manage inquiries, and follow up post-event.
• Identify clients for hosted buyer programs, sales missions, and familiarization trips.
• Manage projects for association events and partner initiatives.
• Participate in partner meetings and ambassador programs.
• Perform other duties including budget management, bid production, event management, and finance administration.

Key Relationships

• International and European association clients
• L&P business tourism and marketing teams
• Trade associations like ICCA, ABPCO, INCON, UIA
• L&P partners

You’ll Have/Bring

• Experience in sales within the business tourism or hospitality sector
• Ability to work in a target-driven environment
• Key account management skills
• Knowledge of London's tourism products
• Financial and budget management experience
• Proven relationship-building skills
• Sales and presentation skills
• Proactive research and telesales abilities
• Understanding of the international association sector
• Excellent communication and administrative skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and marketing PR knowledge
• Relationship builder with a can-do attitude
• Experience selling destinations or working with CVBs (desirable)

You’ll Get

• Opportunity to work in a fast-paced, inclusive environment
• Hybrid working arrangement
• 30 days' holiday plus UK public holidays
• Employer pension contribution and Medical Cash Plan

Note: Due to high application volume, we may close the vacancy early. We encourage early applications. We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, offering flexible working options.