Director of Sales & Event Management

Position Summary

The Director of Sales & Event Management (SEM) at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel is responsible for overseeing and leading the Sales, Event Coordination, and Event Services departments. This position plays a critical role in the planning, coordination, and execution of conferences and events, ensuring alignment with departmental goals and Georgia Center standards. The SEM Director provides strategic direction, fosters team development, and ensures operational efficiency across the division.

The role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including the development of sales strategies to maximize revenue, the oversight of departmental budgets, and the establishment of financial agreements with clients. In addition, the Director is tasked with maintaining strong relationships with clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction, and continuously improving processes to enhance operational effectiveness and client experience.

This position is a key liaison between the SEM division and other departments within the Georgia Center, playing a vital role in cross‑functional collaboration and ensuring seamless coordination of event services. The SEM Director also represents the Georgia Center in the broader hospitality and business community, staying attuned to trends and opportunities that impact the center's success. They will oversee the internship program for Hospitality & Food Industry Management (HFIM) students at the Georgia Center.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, a strong leader, and a results‑oriented individual with deep experience in sales, event management, and financial oversight.

• A degree from an accredited university in hospitality, business or a related field preferred in order to receive full consideration
• Experience in event planning and sales in a continuing education environment
• Extensive knowledge of and experience in hospitality sales and event coordination, including a general understanding of audiovisual technology—Certified Meeting Professional designation is preferred
• Experience with planning and budget management and supervision of an organization that is self‑supported
• Experience developing and implementing strategic plans
• Experience managing marketing and promotional activities
• Strong written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to foster partnerships among academic, community and other stakeholders
• Demonstrated commitment to the professional development of staff
• Demonstrated experience to work independently as well as in a collaborative manner, with employee groups, constituents and/or community members
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service

Sit in front of computer for extended periods of time

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Must be willing and able to work evenings and weekends as necessary

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Percentage of time: 50%

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the SEM division at the Georgia Center.
• Set departmental goals and objectives, aligned with organizational goals.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance of leaders in the Sales, Event Coordination, and Event Services departments.
• Define performance expectations, ensure accountability, and provide…