Business Development Specialist in Chicago, Illinois at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago

TITLE: Business Development Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Sales

REPORTS TO: Director of Sales and Marketing

Vinayaka Hospitality was founded in 2008 on a foundation of innovation, intelligence, and compassion. Our team takes pride in combining a passion for hospitality with practical hotel management. By collaborating with renowned brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt, we efficiently manage 13 properties across diverse locations. Committed to ongoing growth, we actively seek opportunities and are dedicated to helping both our team and hotels thrive. We remain responsive and proactive in our strategies for sales, marketing, and revenue, ensuring swift adaptability to market changes. Beyond Management, we cultivate strong partnerships with major industry players, showcasing our dedication to success in the ever-evolving world of hospitality

Join the team at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago — a landmark downtown hotel where elevated comfort meets iconic luxury. At The Westin, you’ll be part of a culture that champions well-being, innovation and extraordinary experiences for both guests and associates. Nestled on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, you’ll work in a dynamic setting offering inspiring views, modern amenities and a commitment to “doing well, and doing good.” If you’re passionate about hospitality and ready to elevate your career in a role where your purpose matters, let’s create unforgettable moments together.

Position Summary

The Business Development Specialist is responsible for driving incremental corporate business travel (BT) revenue by managing existing corporate accounts while proactively identifying and securing new business opportunities. This role focuses on growing market share through strategic prospecting, competitive account targeting, relationship development, and collaboration with internal sales teams.

In addition to developing corporate business, this position supports the hotel's group sales efforts by soliciting actualized group business from Multi Hotel Sales (MHS) and conducting property tours for prospective clients. The Business Development Specialist serves as a key ambassador for the hotel, delivering exceptional customer service while maximizing revenue opportunities across multiple market segments.

Essential Job Functions

Corporate Business Development

• Manage and grow an assigned portfolio of existing corporate business travel accounts.
• Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to identify and solicit new corporate accounts within the competitive market.
• Analyze competitor production, market trends, and account opportunities to increase market share.
• Conduct proactive outside sales calls, prospecting activities, networking events, and client appointments.
• Build strong relationships with travel managers, executive assistants, procurement professionals, and decision-makers.
• Negotiate preferred corporate rate agreements while maximizing ADR and overall profitability.
• Maintain accurate account information, sales activities, and production tracking within Marriott sales systems.

Account Management

• Maintain regular communication with existing clients to ensure satisfaction, retention, and increased production.
• Review production reports and identify opportunities for account growth.
• Coordinate with Operations to ensure exceptional guest experiences that encourage repeat business.
• Respond promptly to client inquiries, requests, and opportunities.

Group Business Development

• Partner with Multi Hotel Sales (MHS) to solicit actualized group business for future opportunities.
• Review lost, canceled, and consumed group business to identify future booking potential.
• Build relationships with meeting planners and key contacts to convert repeat group business.
• Collaborate with the Group Sales team to transition qualified opportunities effectively.

Site Tours & Sales Presentations

• Conduct professional property tours for prospective corporate and group clients.
• Customize site inspections based on each client's business needs and event requirements.
• Present the hotel's accommodations, meeting space, amenities, and unique selling features in a compelling manner.
• Follow up promptly after tours to maximize conversion opportunities.

Market Intelligence

• Monitor competitive hotels for new account opportunities, rate changes, and market activity.
• Utilize Agency 360, STAR reports, market intelligence, and account production data to identify strategic targets.
• Develop action plans to penetrate key competitive accounts and increase market share.

Collaboration

• Work closely with the Director of Sales & Marketing and Sales Managers to develop targeted sales initiatives.
• Participate in weekly sales meetings, revenue strategy discussions, and business development planning.
• Collaborate with Revenue Management to ensure corporate pricing strategies align with hotel objectives.
• Support hotel sales initiatives, community events, and networking opportunities.

Performance Expectations

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Growth in Corporate Business Travel revenue.
• New corporate accounts acquired.
• Retention and expansion of existing accounts.
• Competitive account conversions.
• Site tour activity and conversion ratio.
• Sales call and prospecting activity.
• Achievement of annual revenue goals and market share objectives.

Core Competencies

• Business Development
• Strategic Prospecting
• Relationship Management
• Negotiation
• Customer Service Excellence
• Market Analysis
• Revenue Generation
• Presentation Skills
• Time Management
• Collaboration & Teamwork
• Results-Oriented

In accordance with Illinois law, the anticipated pay range for this position is:

$60,000 – $65,000 per year

The final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, education, internal equity, and market conditions.

Eligible team members may have access to a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (vacation, sick time, holidays)
• Six paid company holidays and one floating holiday
• 401(k) with company match (up to 4%)
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee assistance programs
• Employee discounts (hotel and travel discounts)
• Eligibility for benefits may vary based on position, employment status, and tenure.

Additional Compensation

This role may not be eligible for additional compensation, including:

• Bonus or incentive programs
• Commissions (if applicable)

Details will be provided during the interview process.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws