1861 Club Events and Sales Manager
Job Description
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) is seeking a dedicated Events and Sales Manager to join our team. This full-time position requires a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings, to accommodate events throughout the year. This role is responsible for marketing the venue, handling inquiries, and coordinating non-Fair facility rentals at the 1861 Club.
Additionally, this team member will assist with all activities related to the operation of the Club during the Kansas State Fair (KSF). Our small, collaborative team works together to create exceptional events and service at the 1861 Club.
Duties
The Events and Sales Manager will focus on venue rental sales and event management for clients at the 1861 Club.
Responsibilities include developing a sales and marketing plan with the KFF Executive Director, understanding logistical needs, and ensuring smooth execution of all event details. The manager will work with KFF staff and the board to ensure the 1861 Club operates profitably.
Responsibilities
• Client Management
• Establish, build, and maintain client and vendor relationships
• Prospect and develop new clients
• Respond to inquiries and book appointments
• Sales
• Guide clients through the full sales process: identification, qualification, proposal development, booking, and post-event follow-up
• Conduct on-site walk-through appointments
• Negotiate contracts, close deals, and book events
• Communication
• Provide timely and thorough responses to clients via phone and email
• Create reliable reports and information on sales, contacts, proposals, etc.
• Manage client expectations and clearly communicate needs to the 1861 Club team
• Prepare and develop a Venue Event Order (VEO) detailing all event aspects: guest count, floor plan, catering, timeline, décor, entertainment, audio-visual needs, etc.
• Share VEO information with all necessary KFF staff and partners
• Event Execution
• Assist with setup, teardown, and execution of all event aspects
• Be proactive to solve problems and handle issues as they arise
• Collect payments and send payment reminders to clients
• Maintain a working knowledge of the complex needs for various events
• Understand venue systems, lighting, audio-visuals, kitchen equipment, etc.
• Identify and engage potential team members to assist with events
• Perform other duties related to the operation of the 1861 Club or Foundation activities as needed
Qualifications
• Excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills, including phone, written, electronic communication, and presentation skills
• Positive attitude and an interest in learning the inner workings of a multi-use venue
• Highly self-motivated with attention to detail
• Ability to organize, prioritize and execute multiple activities effectively
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
• Experience in the hospitality industry and events coordination
• Strong sales skills with the ability to identify client needs and develop effective sales strategies
• Proficient with computers and technology with a working understanding of Microsoft Office and Google Drive, an ability to learn and use new technology efficiently, a knowledge of the TOAST POS System is a plus
• Ability to analyze and solve problems, provide solutions, and retain information
• Ability to lift and move heavy items, set up and take down tables, chairs, stage, laundry bags, etc. as needed for event preparation
Work Schedule
• Flexible work schedule
• Flexible workdays – with flexible schedule
• Events are often held in the evenings and on weekends
• Excludes August and September during preparation for the Kansas State Fair
Location
• Hutchinson, Kansas, is the primary work site
Compensation
• Competitive based on applicant's skills and experience
• Paid vacation
Application Procedure
Please submit the following materials to James Fisher, Executive Director, at [email protected]
● Resume
● Cover Letter
If you have questions, please call 620-615-7388 or email [email protected].
Employer Information
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with an office located on the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. As a separate and independent organization, the Foundation acts as the fundraising arm for the Kansas State Fair and Fairgrounds. The Foundation’s mission is to inspire excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. The specific purposes of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation shall be to further the renovation, construction, preservation, and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds; to help, assist, promote, support, maintain, enhance, endow, and advance the interests of the Kansas State Fair: and to encourage education of the public about the Kansas State Fair and its purpose and activities.
The 1861 Club is an event venue located on the Kansas State Fairgrounds, operated by the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. For most of the year, it operates as a high-end venue for weddings, special and corporate events, and activities. During the Kansas State Fair, it is transformed into a climate-controlled food, beverage and entertainment venue for fast fine dining and entertainment experience for all Fair attendees. Funds raised from the 1861 Club are invested back into projects on the Fairgrounds through the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation.