Director of Sales, Meetings

Director of Sales, Meetings & Conventions, US Association & Convention Services We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Director of Sales, US Association & Convention Services to lead Destination Vancouver’s business development efforts in the US Association market. This pivotal leadership role manages a team of sales professionals and partners closely with the Vancouver Convention Centre and Destination Vancouver hotel partners to attract high‑impact citywide and hotel self‑contained US Association conferences. Reporting to the Vice President, Meetings, Conventions & Events (MC&E), this position (also a member of Destination Vancouver’s Director Leadership Team) will coach and develop our team to achieve business plan objectives, implement sales tactics, marketing & communications strategies, and convention service initiatives. Lead the US Association and Convention Services team to deliver on annual strategic business plan goals: business development, marketing & communications, convention services, and data‑driven insights. Drive new lead generation, conversion to contracted business, citywide & hotel room block commitments, and confirmed delegate attendance. Represent Vancouver stakeholders as a market leader in the US Association sector; position Vancouver as an effortless, inclusive destination through key forums (PCMA, ASAE, AMCI, CESSE). Apply expert knowledge of US Association market trends to guide strategy; leverage industry partnerships, third‑party insights, and Destination Vancouver’s CRM to forecast demand and optimize sales. Mentor and inspire the sales and convention services team, measuring success through performance, client satisfaction, and team engagement. Key Responsibilities: Lead Destination Vancouver’s strategy for the US Association market, focusing on high‑value citywide and multi‑year events. Differentiates Vancouver via partner relationships, brand reputation in sustainability/DEI, and collaborative hotel/convention packages. Identify and target associations for repeat and multi‑year bookings aligned with Vancouver’s priority sectors. Prepare reports for the Vice President, analyzing initiative outcomes. Collaborate with other Sales Directors on annual business plan, tactics, and budget. Use data and insights to drive informed strategic decisions; manage targeted communications for group bookings. Foster innovation in client engagement with creative content. Lead, train, and mentor a team of sales and convention services professionals; set clear goals and accountability. Work with People & Culture on recruitment, onboarding, and team engagement. Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to direct reports. Partnership Development Strengthen relationships with strategic partners and maintain a strong presence at key industry forums. Collaborate with the Vancouver Convention Centre sales team on bids and client servicing. Engage agencies and intermediaries that influence US association decisions. Revenue & Performance Prepare and deliver destination bid and educational presentations to clients and partners. Drive lead generation and conversion to meet annual targets for room nights, attendee numbers, and citywide wins. Collaborate with marketing and convention services teams to maximize economic and reputational impact. Manage an operational budget with accountability for results and resource investment. Who are we? Destination Vancouver is a leading destination organization dedicated to promoting Vancouver and surrounding regions. We are committed to a triple bottom line approach—people, planet, prosperity. As a private, not‑for‑profit association, we thrive on industry collaboration and brand excellence. What we offer This position is based in Destination Vancouver’s corporate office in Vancouver, BC. Flexibility of schedule is required outside of standard business hours; weekends, evenings, and business travel are part of the role. Destination Vancouver values a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. US in‑market representation may be considered; contract terms will vary. We offer a competitive total rewards program, including: additional paid wellness days, annual incentive, extended health care, health spending account, personal wellness spending, RRSP matching, referral program, training & development opportunities, flexible work environment, and tourism industry perks. Annual base salary starting range: $115,000 - $134,300. What you offer The ideal candidate has experience in a similar sales leadership role, a proven track record of measurable results, and high professionalism and diplomacy. Experience and Knowledge: Minimum ten years in a similar leadership or director‑level role, preferably in association sales or convention bureau leadership. Knowledge of the Metro Vancouver and British Columbia meetings & conventions industry. Deep knowledge of the US Association sector and key intermediary relationships. Demonstrated sales, marketing, and client service results in meetings and conventions. Extensive international network of industry contacts. Strong strategic business planning and partnership development skills. Ability to position a destination competitively through brand storytelling and collaborative approaches. Innovative and creative outlook for sales and marketing. Experience managing high‑performing sales & service teams; proven coaching and feedback skills. Professional Strengths and Characteristics: Passionate about Vancouver as a place to live, work, and explore. Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship‑building skills; delegation and motivation. Excellent organization, planning, and time‑management; multi‑tasking and project management. High professionalism, maturity, and diplomacy. Collaborative teamwork and commitment to service excellence. Curious, positive, and motivated; proactive initiative. Technology and Education: Strong technology skills including social media, CRM, database management, and willingness to learn new technologies. Post‑secondary education in business, tourism, or related disciplines is beneficial. Please send your resume and cover letter to: Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Destination Vancouver by 2×. #J-18808-Ljbffr