Senior Group Sales Executive - Luxury Events

About World Equestrian Center – Ocala
World Equestrian Center (WEC) – Ocala is a premier, luxury multi-venue destination offering world-class equestrian competition, upscale lodging and dining, and exceptional meeting and event spaces. In 2026, we expanded our portfolio with the opening of The Equestrian Manor at World Equestrian Center – Ocala, a signature meeting and event experience designed for high-touch corporate retreats, incentive programs, executive offsites, VIP gatherings, and more.
Position Summary
The Senior Sales Manager is responsible for driving new business acquisition and revenue growth for Group Rooms and Event bookings across multiple market segments. This role will be a key contributor to the successful launch of The Equestrian Manor at WEC – Ocala, leveraging its unique luxury positioning to attract high-value groups. The Manager will lead proactive, outbound prospecting, develop account strategies, cultivate relationships with decision-makers (e.g., corporate planners, association executives, incentive houses, third-party intermediaries, and strategic partners), and coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure exceptional end-to-end client experience.

Key Responsibilities
Prospecting & New Business Development
Build and manage a robust pipeline targeting groups with a focus on high-value meetings, conventions, executive retreats, and reward travel.
Execute proactive outreach (sales calls, email campaigns, industry networking, Linked In/social selling, etc.) to generate qualified leads for The Equestrian Manor, broader WEC – Ocala venues, and The Equestrian and Riding Academy Hotels.
Identify, qualify, and convert opportunities with group decision makers, incentive travel firms, third-party planners, and DMCs.
Sales Strategy & Execution
Develop territory plans and account-based strategies aligned with revenue goals, seasonality, and calendar of events.
Prepare proposals, conduct site inspections, deliver presentations, and negotiate commercial terms in partnership with Revenue Management and Senior Sales Leadership.
Collaborate with Marketing to tailor messaging and collateral emphasizing The Equestrian Manor, broader WEC – Ocala venues, and The Equestrian and Riding Academy Hotel’s luxury, privacy, and bespoke experiences.
Partnerships & Market Development
Build relationships with CVB/DMO partners, industry associations (e.g. MPI), and key intermediaries to source and influence new demand.
Represent WEC – Ocala at trade shows, sales missions, and client events; coordinate co-op programs and familiarization (FAM) trips.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Operations, Events, Culinary, Lodging, and Event Services to ensure seamless planning, delivery, and post-event satisfaction.
Provide clear handoffs to Event Services and Operations with detailed group profiles and expectations.
Revenue Management & Reporting
Maintain accurate records in CRM: pipeline stages, activities, forecasts, contracts, and post-event feedback.
Track performance against KPIs (production, conversion rates, revenue, pace) and provide regular business reviews.
Brand Experience & Client Service
Champion WEC – Ocala’s luxury standards, ensuring proposals, communications, and on-site experiences reflect the brand.
Serve as a consultative partner to curate bespoke itineraries, VIP touches, and value-added experiences.