Description

Summary

The Director of Group Sales is responsible for leading the strategic direction, development, and execution of all group sales initiatives at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, with a strong emphasis on luxury group, incentive, and hotel buyout business .

This role is a key member of the Sales & Marketing leadership team and partners closely with the Director of Sales & Marketing (DOSM) to drive revenue growth, optimize group mix, and position the resort as a premier destination for high-end group experiences and exclusive-use events. The Director will lead proactive sales efforts, cultivate high-value relationships, and oversee group sales performance while embodying Alila's values of authenticity, wellness, and connection to place.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Revenue Growth

• Develop and execute a comprehensive group sales strategy aligned with overall revenue goals, with a focus on high-rated group and buyout business
• Drive total group revenue performance, including pace, production, and profitability
• Identify and capitalize on market trends, demand patterns, and competitive positioning to grow group and buyout segments
• Partner with Revenue Management to optimize pricing, inventory, and group mix strategies

Sales Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the group sales team, fostering a high-performance, results-driven culture
• Set individual and team sales goals, monitor performance, and provide ongoing coaching and accountability
• Collaborate with the DOSM on overall sales leadership, strategic planning, and departmental initiatives

Business Development & Account Management

• Personally manage and grow a portfolio of key high-value accounts, including corporate, incentive, and luxury travel partners
• Proactively solicit new business through direct outreach, networking, client entertainment, and industry engagement
• Strengthen partnerships with Hyatt Sales Force (HSF), Hyatt Privé, Virtuoso, and other luxury consortia to drive group and buyout opportunities

Client Engagement & Brand Representation

• Serve as a senior-level contact for VIP clients and complex group opportunities, including full resort buyouts
• Host high-level site inspections, FAM trips, and immersive client experiences that showcase the resort's unique offerings
• Represent Alila Marea at trade shows, sales missions, and industry events to elevate brand presence

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Events, Operations, Marketing, and Revenue teams to ensure seamless execution of group programs and buyouts
• Participate in and lead revenue and sales strategy meetings, providing insights on group pace, conversion, and opportunities
• Ensure alignment between sales commitments and operational delivery to maintain service excellence

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Business, or related field preferred
• Minimum 6-8 years of progressive sales experience in luxury hospitality, with strong expertise in group, incentive, and buyout segments
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to inspire, develop, and manage high-performing sales teams
• Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding group revenue targets
• Strong negotiation, presentation, and relationship management skills
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and forecasting capabilities
• Experience with Hyatt systems (Delphi.fdc, Envision, Opera, HyattNet) strongly preferred
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including travel, evenings, and weekends as needed

Success Factors

• Drives consistent growth in group and buyout revenue while maintaining rate integrity and profitability
• Builds and sustains strong relationships with corporate clients, incentive planners, and luxury travel advisors
• Leads with a collaborative, strategic mindset that enhances overall sales team performance
• Champions Alila's brand pillars of authenticity, sustainability, and meaningful guest experiences

The Pay range for this position is $90,00 - $110,000, depending on experience.

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status."