Worldwide Speakers Group (WWSG) is an innovative global lecture agency dedicated to providing an unprecedented and unparalleled level of service in the speaker industry. We create effective comprehensive strategic solutions that achieve client goals and forge a lasting impact with audiences. Our leadership is reflected in the extraordinary individuals we exclusively represent including those from the highest levels of government, business, media and entertainment.
WWSG is seeking an experienced, talented and energetic individual to join our team as a VP of Sales. Agents are responsible for developing, maintaining and growing relationships with clients and speakers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong focus on client development and relationships and be a strong communicator—both written and verbal.
To be successful in this position, Agents must convey continuous positive influence both within the company and to our clients and our speakers. They must demonstrate strong interpersonal, communication and teamwork skills and must be able to develop partnerships with co-workers. The ideal candidate must maintain a positive attitude and build long lasting relationships with clients. They must also exhibit a sense of urgency to close sales. They must be extremely detail-oriented and be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Agents are expected to meet or exceed their annual sales goals.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Research and contact potential speakers to obtain contact and booking information
Possess sufficient knowledge of industry marketplace, trends and product knowledge
Research clients and compile vetting documents
Recommend speakers and quote fees to clients
Maintain strong client relationships and increase the number of contacts within existing organizations
Achieve or exceed sales goals on a monthly and annual basis
Maintain a pipeline of 3 times identified sales goal
Manage escalated client issues/concerns and speaker cancellations
Direct the client and speaker firm offer and contract negotiation process
Obtain signed Firm Offers and Signed Contracts from speakers and clients
Ensure all fees are collected for every engagement
Obtain documented approval from client and speaker for video recording
Effectively use the CRM to enter sales, client and speaker information for accurate tracking, reporting and follow-up
Compose and send correspondence to current or potential clients and speakers
Check availability of speakers
Contact and qualify potential clients via telephone and email
Communicate accurate and comprehensive event information to host organizations, speakers and internal departments
Work closely with Marketing for targeted initiatives for your clients
Commit to continuing education – learning about speakers, staying informed about world events/business issues affecting our clients to better assist them in finding the right speaker for their program
Attend local events
Visit one local client per quarter
Mentor Account Executives and Sales Associates
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications and Education Requirements
Bachelor’s degree.
4+ years’ experience selling services/products, contract negotiation and demonstrated track record of sales success
B2B Sales Experience preferable in Service industries
Experience identifying, qualifying and closing business with an average sales price of $35,000 or higher
Strong ability in consultative sales and connecting organizational business needs to speaker engagements and learning solutions
Preferred Skills
Strong project management, client service and relationship building skills.
Strong written and verbal communication, able to deliver clear, concise information tailored to specific and varied audiences.
Ability to manage multiple projects independently
Proficiency in Microsoft products (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Salesforce
Exceptionally detail-oriented and organized, ensuring quality and consistent output.
Ability to effectively solve problems, think creatively, make decisions and act, exercising independent judgment.
Ability to maintain a professional and positive attitude and work independently with little guidance in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
Convention/hospitality, or Association industry experience is a plus
Compensation
WWSG offers a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, vision and prescription plan coverage, paid vacation and sick time, free parking and shuttle to metro, and training and development programs.