Director of Sales

We at Avocet are united under a common goal: create fulfilling, meaningful experiences-not just for our guests, but for our talent as well. It’s about finding the right balance between guiding our teams to be true to the brand and empowering them to be true to themselves. To do this, we’ve invested in a dynamic professional environment and culture that is aligned with the values of the modern workforce.

• Company Provided Life Insurance
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Matching

As Chattanooga’s premier historic luxury hotel and "Grande Dame" of hospitality, The Read House seamlessly blends 1920s grandeur with elevated modern comfort. We are seeking a sophisticated and strategic Director of Sales to lead our sales and catering team, drive top-line revenue across group and market segments, and showcase our landmark property to clients both local and nationwide.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Strategic Revenue & Market Leadership

• Drive top-line revenue strategy across group, volume transient, and catering segments.
• Analyze market trends, competitive data, and demand to establish group rates and deployment strategies.
• Direct sales activities to optimize occupancy and average daily rates while exceeding revenue goals.
• Prepare annual sales and marketing budgets, monthly forecasts, and strategic plans.
• Partner with revenue management and hotel operations to optimize room mix and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Client Engagement & Brand Presence

• Host site visits, present bespoke sales proposals, and negotiate client contracts.
• Generate new business through targeted outreach, strategic networking, and industry partnerships.
• Represent The Read House at national trade shows, corporate conferences, and local business events.
• Maintain strong visibility with community partners, including the Chattanooga Tourism Company, Chamber of Commerce, and Hotel Lodging Association.
• Partner with Corporate Marketing to build hotel awareness and protect brand reputation.
• Inspire and direct the daily operations of the sales and catering team.
• Directly supervise the Catering Sales Manager, Sales Manager, Convention Services Manager, and Event Planning Manager.
• Establish performance expectations, design incentive programs, and maintain accountability for productivity.
• Recruit, train, and retain top sales talent.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

Experience: 5+ years of hospitality sales leadership experience required. Independent and convention hotel experience preferred.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Hotel & Restaurant Management, or related field preferred.

Industry Expertise: Proven track record in group/convention, corporate, and leisure transient market segments.

Technical Proficiency: Experience with Delphi, PMS platforms, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.

Leadership

Skills:

Strong negotiation, communication, and decision-making capabilities in a fast-paced environment.

Flexibility: Maintain punctual on-site attendance with the ability to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as business requires. Up to 20% local travel for outside sales calls, off-site industry events, and client meetings.

WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER

Vibrant Environment: A culture valuing passion, individuality, and fun.

Career Growth: Opportunities for internal advancement.

Comprehensive Care: Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans.

Peace of Mind: Life, disability, accident, and critical illness insurance.

Personal Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Paid Time Off: Generous PTO and paid holidays.

Retirement: Traditional & Roth 401(k) with up to 3.5% employer match.

Flexible Pay: Early access to earned wages via Pay Activ.

Bonus Potential: Bonus potential of up to 20%.

Avocet Discounts: Savings at our hotels and restaurants.

Daily Perks: Discounted Starbucks, employee meals, and garage parking.

“We strive to create fulfilling, meaningful experiences by nurturing a culture that celebrates the lifetime value of passionate talent.”

Amber Topping, Vice President of People & Culture