Business Development Manager - The National Restaurant Show

Company Description

Informa Connect:

We are part of Informa, a global business with a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries, and a member of the FTSE 100.

Our purpose is to connect our customers with the information and people that empower them to know more, do more, and be more. No other company in the world helps more people share professional knowledge or make business connections.

Each year, we run around 800 events, create digital platforms centered on engaging news and information content, and operate professional development programs for individuals and businesses.

The National Restaurant Show:

The National Restaurant Show is not just the largest annual gathering of foodservice professionals in the Western Hemisphere, it also boasts an attendee base full of quality buyers. In fact, over 85% of Show attendees are decision makers and over 50% purchase more than $5,000,000 per year. The most efficient and cost effective way to meet these decision-making operators is by becoming an exhibitor at the 2024 National Restaurant Show.

With over 900 product categories on a trade show floor that is larger than 10 football fields, there’s no better place to launch new products, grow your brand awareness, generate new leads, and build stronger relationships with current customers than the National Restaurant Show.

National Restaurant Association Show (nationalrestaurantshow.com)

Job Description

As a National Restaurant Association Show Business Development Manager, you will drive growth in exhibit and sponsorship sales for The Show For Foodservice and your expertise and dedication will contribute to making this show a resounding success by connecting businesses and professionals from across the foodservice industry. Your key responsibilities include engaging with food and beverage suppliers to sell sponsorship packages, promote their brands, and align with their business needs.

In this position, your primary responsibility will be to engage with suppliers in the foodservice industry to sell booth space and sponsorship packages for our tradeshow.  Your main focus will involve identifying potential exhibitors and sponsors, cultivating relationships, and securing their participation in the event. You'll leverage your sales expertise to communicate the value proposition of exhibiting or sponsoring at The National Restaurant Association Show, highlighting the unparalleled opportunities for brand exposure, lead generation, and relationship-building that the event offers. With over 900 product categories on a trade show floor that is larger than 10 football fields, you'll emphasize the unique platform the show provides for launching new products, growing brand awareness, and strengthening relationships with current customers.

Your role involves:

• Identifying and prioritizing potential sponsors and exhibitors.
• Selling exhibit booth space to qualified companies
• Selling sponsorship opportunities to exhibitors
• Strengthening relationships with current clients for upsell opportunities
• Conducting prospecting activities such as cold calling and networking.
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Customizing sponsorship packages and negotiating terms.
• Collaborating with internal teams to ensure smooth execution.
• Providing ongoing support and addressing client concerns.
• Monitoring industry trends and competitor activities.
• Attending industry events for promotion and networking.
• Managing sales pipelines and updating CRM systems.
• Staying informed about industry regulations and continuously enhancing the value proposition.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree: Preferred fields include business administration, marketing, communications, or related disciplines, providing a solid foundation in business principles and sales strategies.
• **Minimum 2 years sales experience: Demonstrated success in similar roles, showcasing the ability to drive revenue growth, build client relationships, and meet or exceed sales targets.
• Effective communication skills: Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively, both verbally and in writing, to engage clients and convey the value proposition of event sponsorship and floor space opportunities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and SalesForce: Skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and CRM software such as SalesForce are essential for creating sales proposals, presentations, and managing sales pipelines.
• **Tradeshow sales experience Preferred but not Mandatory: Previous experience in tradeshow sales is highly advantageous, providing a deeper understanding of industry dynamics and best practices for driving sales success in this speciali