Now Hiring - Reginald F. Lewis Museum - Professional Services Event Sales Director in Baltimore, MD

Full description of the position

Position Summary: The Event Sales Director advances the Reginald F. Lewis' mission by managing and growing our facility rental operation and delivering exceptional client experiences within the museum. As the first point of contact for event rentals, this role is responsible for business development, managing inquiries, developing proposals, and managing event logistics with the team. The Event Sales Director reports to the President. The Director embodies the museum's values of outstanding customer service, and hospitality. Essential Duties & Responsibilities: Lead Generation & Sales * Proactively solicit rental interest through the use of meeting and event logistics ad platforms; effectively utilize digital media to promote the venue. * Review past rentals to secure repeat business. * Attend appropriate business fairs and establish an activation for The Lewis property * Respond to rental inquiries within lead generators or established service level agreements; qualify leads and conduct needs assessments. * Work with the Special Event Coordinator to conduct site tours and tailor space recommendations (galleries, theater, classrooms, rooftop/terrace, etc.). * Draft proposals, rental estimates, diagrams, contracts, and invoices; manage deposits, COIs, and permits. * Negotiate within approved rate cards, discount policies, blackout dates, and museum-use priorities. * Utilize SalesForce to maintain the pipeline and prepare weekly and monthly sales reports. * Collaborate with External Relations on digital campaigns; maintain accurate data on the effectiveness of campaigns. * Track conversion rates and cycle times; analyze lost-business; recommend pricing/package optimizations; Monitor client satisfaction and implement improvements Client Service & Event Coordination: * Serves as one of the client's primary points of contact from inquiry through event execution. * Produce event timelines, layouts, run-of-show, and vendor schedules; coordinate rehearsal and walkthroughs. * Provide on-site support during load-in, event time, and strike; ensure events start on time and meet service standards. * Design an evaluation mechanism to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data regarding service. Internal & Vendor Coordination: * Source and coordinate approved vendors (caterers, decor, rentals, A/V, florals); verify insurance and compliance. * Schedule and lead production meetings; distribute event memos and final BEOs/spec sheets and catering contracts. Collections Protection, Compliance & Safety: * Support with the enforcement of collections-safe practices: protective stanchions, approved mounting/rigging, climate/lighting parameters, and safe circulation in gallery spaces. * Ensure adherence to ADA, life safety, occupancy loads, emergency egress, and risk protocols; escalate incidents appropriately. * Maintain vendors'current documentation (COIs, liquor licenses, permits) Qualifications (Education & Experience): * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Business, Arts Administration, or related field; equivalent experience considered. * 5+ years in event sales, venue rentals, or hospitality; museum/cultural/nonprofit experience preferred. * Demonstrated success managing a sales pipeline, closing business, and coordinating events end-to-end. * Experience working with culturally diverse communities Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: * Client-centered communicator with strong presentation, writing, and negotiation skills. * Proficiency with SalesForce, and MS Office/365; basic diagramming (Social Tables/Prismm) a plus. * Working knowledge of event operations: Banquet Event Orders, A/V basics, vendor management, load-in/out logistics, rental orders, permitting, COIs, and alcohol service regulations. * Ability to interpret rate cards, prepare quotes, and reconcile final billing accurately. * High attention to detail; organized, adaptable, and calm under pressure. * Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive service; ability to represent the museum's mission to diverse audiences. * Available for evening/weekend/holiday work; occasional overtime during peak seasons. * Practices inclusive hospitality welcoming all guests while honoring the museum's role as a steward of culture and memory. * Champions accessible events (ADA considerations, inclusive vendor options, multilingual wayfinding as applicable). Physical Demands & Work Environment: * Regularly standing/walking during tours and events; occasional lifting up to 25-30 lbs; moving carts/equipment. * Work involves evening/night hours, variable noise levels, and frequent radio/phone communication. * Must follow collections-safe attire/equipment requirements when working near galleries and artifacts. Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 Benefits: * 10 days of vacation leave, annually * 10 days of sick leave, annually * 6 days of personal leave, annually * Retirement Plan (Maryland State Pension) * 12 Government Holidays * A comprehensive health care program Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year Benefits: * Dental insurance * Employee assistance program * Flexible spending account * Health insurance * Life insurance * Retirement plan * Vision insurance Work Location: In person