Vice President of Sales in Chicago, Illinois at Paramount Events

Paramount Events – Vice President of Sales

Job Overview:

The Vice President of Sales will lead the sales organization and drive sustainable revenue growth for Paramount Events. This role is responsible for developing and executing strategic sales initiatives, managing key client relationships, and building a high-performance sales culture to achieve sales results. The Vice President of Sales plays a crucial role in realizing business objectives, expanding market share, and elevating the overall sales function.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales Strategy and Planning:

· Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy aligned with the company's overall goals in conjunction with the CEO and the VP of Business Development. Completed each fall for following year, and monthly updates and reforecast for future months.

· Set clear sales targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the sales team. Identify and pursue new venue partnerships and RFP opportunities to drive revenue growth.

· Analyze market trends, competitive activity, and customer insights to identify opportunities and risks.

· Translate insights into measurable action plans and track progress against defined objectives

Team Leadership:

· Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing sales team.

· Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance management to ensure achievement of individual and team goals.

· Foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and accountable sales culture.

Client Acquisition and Retention:

· Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, ensuring service and satisfaction.

· Drive new business development by identifying and pursuing strategic opportunities.

· Oversee contract negotiations and client agreements to ensure favorable outcomes.

Sales Operations & Execution:

· Implement and optimize sales processes, systems, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

· Monitor sales performance and deliver regular reporting and insights to the executive team.

· Hold team members accountable to performance standards, providing coaching and progressive discipline when necessary.

· Partner cross-functionally to refine offerings based on market feedback and client needs.

· Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and the COO to proactively address and resolve client concerns or execution gaps.

· Participate in client tastings and key event experiences as part of the sales process.

· Attend events as needed to support both sales efforts and operational execution.

Strategic Partnerships:

· Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships to strengthen market position and brand presence.

· Collaborate with the Marketing to create compelling sales materials and campaigns.

· Represent Paramount Events at industry events, networking functions, and conferences.

NEXT STEPS

We consider many factors as part of our talent process. One part of the process is that all applicants complete a short, 2-question survey. There are no right or wrong answers, just your answers. Please click on or copy & paste the following link to start the application process: https://go.cultureindex.com/p/KyNSCUGPe3vW80w

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality Management, or related field preferred
• 8–10+ years of progressive sales leadership experience, preferably within catering, hospitality, events, foodservice, or related industries.
• Proven track record of driving significant revenue growth, exceeding sales goals, and leading high-performing sales organizations.
• Experience developing and executing strategic sales plans aligned with company growth objectives.
• Strong business development, negotiation, contract management, and client relationship skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop managers and sales professionals across multiple locations or markets.
• Experience with forecasting, CRM systems, sales analytics, and performance reporting.
• Excellent executive communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and industry events as needed.