The Great Gorge is a multi-faceted recreational and hospitality business featuring a 27-hole Fazio designed golf course, an aerial adventure course, a restaurant & event space and coming soon: 1Club a new short-format high-energy golf-based activity. The Great Gorge has a long and storied history having opened in 1971 as a centerpiece attraction for Hugh Hefner’s Playboy Club & Resort. The property was acquired by its current owners in 2016 and since then has reestablished itself as a recreational destination surrounded by some of the most scenic views in northern New Jersey. We are seeking a Group Sales and Marketing professional to join our team to help drive our next level of growth and to participate in shaping future expansion of the business.
Position Summary:
The Group Sales & Marketing Coordinator will be responsible for proactively soliciting and securing group business for the golf course, private events at the clubhouse, and the TreEscape aerial adventure course. The role will also work closely with our digital marketing partner to provide localized support for all Great Gorge related marketing activities. This role requires a dynamic, results-driven professional with a passion for sales and a deep understanding of marketing in the hospitality and recreational industries. The primary focus will be on increasing group outings for the golf course and our new 1Club concept, followed by securing private party bookings at the clubhouse and expanding group participation in TreEscape.
Key Responsibilities:
Golf Outings and 1Club: - Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to attract and secure group golf outings, including corporate events, charity tournaments, and social gatherings.
- Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, corporations, and community organizations to drive repeat business.
- Collaborate with the golf operations team to ensure seamless planning and execution of group outings.
Private Parties: - Actively market the clubhouse as a premier venue for private events, such as weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, and other social gatherings.
- Conduct site tours, provide event planning consultation, and create tailored proposals that meet clients' needs.
- Work closely with the F&B team to develop customized catering packages and event experiences.
TreEscape Group Sales: - Promote TreEscape to youth groups, schools, camps, and adult groups as a unique team-building and recreational experience.
- Develop packages that combine golf outings, private events, and TreEscape activities to offer comprehensive group experiences.
Sales Outreach and Networking: - Identify and target potential clients through various channels, including cold calling, networking events, industry trade shows, and digital marketing campaigns.
- Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective clients and regularly update the CRM system with relevant information.
Client Relationship Management: - Develop and nurture long-term relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.
- Provide excellent customer service throughout the sales process, from initial inquiry to event follow-up.
Collaboration and Coordination: - Work closely with the marketing team to develop promotional materials and campaigns that support sales efforts.
- Coordinate with Golf operations, F&B, and TreEscape teams to ensure all group events are executed flawlessly.
Reporting and Analysis: - Track and report on sales performance, including lead generation, conversion rates, and revenue targets.
- Provide regular feedback and insights to management on market trends, client needs, and areas for improvement.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in sales, with a focus on group sales, event sales, or hospitality sales.
- Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in a competitive market.
Skills and Abilities:
- Strong sales acumen with the ability to identify, target, and close group sales opportunities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to create value-driven proposals.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a proactive and self-motivated approach.
- Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and digital marketing tools.
- Knowledge of the golf industry, event planning, or recreational activities like aerial adventure courses is highly desirable.
Personal Attributes:
- Outgoing and personable with a passion for sales and client relationship building.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Creative thinker with the ability to develop unique sales strategies and packages.
- $55,000 - $65,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Incentive Structure:
Commission: 5 - 10% of net revenue attached to new direct sales of group golf outings, private parties, and TreEscape bookings.
Bonus: Performance-based bonuses tied to achieving and exceeding annual sales and earnings targets, with potential payouts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 annually.
Benefits:
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays