Job Summary
A leading hospitality group is seeking a highly strategic, results-driven Key Account Manager specializing in the Associations and Incentives segments. Based in Johannesburg, this corporate sales role is responsible for driving revenue growth, managing high-value portfolios, and securing lucrative group and event business. The successful candidate will foster long-term partnerships with professional conference organizers (PCOs), association executives, incentive houses, and corporate travel buyers to maximize market share across our extensive national portfolio. Key Responsibilities Portfolio Management: Manage and grow a dedicated portfolio of association and incentive accounts, ensuring consistent revenue generation and relationship continuity. New Business Acquisition: Proactively identify, prospect, and secure new business opportunities within the regional and international association and incentive sectors. Strategic Client Engagement: Conduct regular face-to-face meetings, site inspections, and corporate presentations to position the group's properties as preferred destinations. RFP & Proposal Management: Lead the submission of comprehensive Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and tailor bespoke bidding documents for large-scale conferences, congresses, and incentive trips. Market Analysis: Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and market shifts to identify emerging opportunities and adapt sales strategies accordingly. Collaboration & Yield Optimization: Partner closely with General Managers, Revenue Managers, and property-level sales teams to optimize pricing strategies, maximize yield, and ensure seamless event execution. Reporting: Maintain accurate pipeline tracking, account profiles, and sales activity logs within the central CRM platform, providing detailed monthly performance reports to executive leadership. Qualifications and Experience Education: A formal degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Sales and Marketing, Commercial Business, or a related discipline is highly advantageous. Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive sales experience within the hospitality or tourism sector, specifically tracking a proven record of success in the Associations and Incentives segments. Network: Established, active network of contacts among South African PCOs, international association boards, and top-tier incentive travel agencies. Systems: Proficiency in property management systems (PMS) and industry-standard CRM software. Core Competencies Commercial Acumen: Strong negotiation and contract-closing skills with a sharp focus on profitability and revenue targets. Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, capable of presenting confidently to C-suite executives and committee boards. Autonomy: Self-motivated and capable of working independently in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple high-priority accounts simultaneously. Travel Flexibility: Willingness to travel regionally and nationally for client engagements, trade shows, and property showcases as required.