Sales Manager

Marriott Hotels Resorts; Durban; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hotel chain in Durban seeks a Sales Manager to drive room and ancillary revenue through proactive sales activities. This role involves maintaining strong client relationships, engaging in corporate sales calls, and identifying upselling opportunities. The ideal candidate should have a relevant degree and proven experience in sales and marketing, preferably in the hospitality industry. A valid driver’s license is required for regular travel. Join us in delivering exceptional service as part of a dynamic team.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years experience in sales, preferably in the hospitality industry.
• Proven track record of generating revenue from existing and new clients.
• Ability to proactively manage client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Solicit new business through direct sales activities.
• Manage the end-to-end sales process from inquiry to confirmation.
• Build and maintain professional relationships to ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills

Sales Skills

Client Relationship Management

Negotiation

Communication

Education

2-year degree in Business Administration or related field and 3 years experience or 4-year degree with 1 year experience

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Sales Manager is responsible for proactively generating room and ancillary revenue through direct sales activities. Reporting to the General Manager, this role focuses on building strong, long-term client relationships, conducting corporate sales calls, engaging with travel agents, and identifying upselling opportunities across relevant market segments.

The Sales Manager actively solicits new business, maintains and grows existing accounts, and supports the execution of sales strategies aligned with the property’s commercial objectives. The role works closely with Marketing and Revenue teams to support campaigns, promotions, and demand generation initiatives while ensuring seamless handover of confirmed business for service delivery.

A valid driver’s license is required, as this position involves regular travel to local corporate offices, agencies, and industry partners.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Direct Sales and Account Management

• Proactively solicits new business through direct sales activities including corporate sales calls, agency visits, and client appointments
• Builds and strengthens long-term, value-based relationships with existing and prospective clients
• Develops and maintains a structured account base to support sustained revenue growth
• Identifies upselling opportunities across rooms, food and beverage, and value-added services
• Represents the property at sales calls, client entertainment, familiarisation trips, and networking events

Sales Execution and Business Turnover

• Manages the end-to-end sales process from initial inquiry through confirmation
• Prepares proposals, quotations, contracts, and customer correspondence in line with brand and legal standards
• Ensures accurate, complete, and timely turnover of confirmed business to Event Management and Operations teams
• Supports the operational execution of booked business to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business

Market Knowledge and Revenue Focus

• Identifies new business opportunities to achieve personal and property revenue goals
• Maintains strong knowledge of market conditions, competitor activity, and economic trendsPositions the property effectively against competitors based on strengths and customer needs
• Understands target customer profiles and service expectations to deliver tailored solutions
• Closes business opportunities that best align with property needs, demand patterns, and revenue strategy

Collaboration and Sales Coordination

• Works collaboratively with off-property and regional sales channels to ensure efforts are aligned and not duplicative
• Supports marketing initiatives by providing market insight, client feedback, and campaign support
• Collaborates with Revenue Management to align pricing, availability, and sales strategies
• Maintains strong internal relationships with Operations, Front Office, and Finance to support service delivery

Customer Experience and Service Excellence

• Supports the company’s service and relationship strategy by delivering consistent service excellence
• Services accounts proactively to grow share of wallet and long-term loyalty
• Acts as a positive ambassador for the property in all guest and client interactions
• Engages with guests and clients to gather feedback on product quality and service levels
• Resolves issues promptly and professionally to protect the guest experience and brand reputation

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• 2-year degree from an accredited university in Business Administration, Marketing, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in sales and marketing or a related professional area

OR

• 4-year bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major with a minimum of 1 year experience in sales and marketing or a related professional area

Additional Requirement

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally for sales calls and client engagement

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of hotel sales and direct revenue generation
• Proven ability to build and maintain professional client relationships
• Effective negotiation and closing skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple accounts and priorities simultaneously
• Solid understanding of hospitality service standards and guest expectations
• Comfortable working independently while collaborating within a commercial team

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Regular local travel for sales calls, agency visits, and client meetings
• Standard office environment with periods of external engagement
• Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.