We're Hiring: Business Development Manager

WESTERN FAIR DISTRICT  

We want you to become a part of our dynamic organization! 

We are a not-for-profit Agricultural Society that encourages opportunity, inclusivity, positivity, and great customer experiences!  We have been around for more than 150 years and are known for our signature event, the annual Western Fair. But we offer so much more including our internationally recognized Sports Centre and Raceway, London’s best Market, The Grove our agri-food business hub, home to world-class consumer and trade shows and events…. plus, much more!  

Job Description: 

WFD’s new Business Development Manager’s will be a driven individual with a passion for selling and growing our business. We are looking for a candidate with an existing network in southwestern Ontario and their priorities will centre on generating sales and sponsorship revenue for the organization’s events and facilities. 

The day-to-day role involves hitting sales and sponsorship targets, building relationships, improving the sales process, and oversite of WFD’s Group Sales Program - promoting and selling corporate & group packages for new and existing opportunities, building our client base, targeting new group sale promotions and driving revenue.    

Reporting directly to the Director of Agri-Business, the Business Development Manager is responsible for a combination of sales, relationship management and strategic planning to identifying new business opportunities, researching potential customers and pursue leads to get new customers and clients to The District.

The Business Development Manager will oversee and foster a range of community relations, corporate groups sales, and sponsor relations for all areas of the District, which include agriculture and food, racing and equine programming, sports and recreation, events and facilities as well as community projects and new initiatives. 

As a not-for profit Agricultural Society, relationship management is the primary focus of this role to ensure professional and eager outreach to the businesses, non-profits, community and industry organizations in London as well as the many surrounding counties that WFD serves, creating many mutually beneficial, long-term customer relationships. 

Responsibilities of the Business Development Manager 

• Develop and execute sales strategies to meet established targets and deadlines.
• Weekly Report on sales strategies, forecasts, and anticipated outcomes. 
• Prospect and pursue lead opportunities for corporate, community & group customers. Opportunities included but limited to: Sponsorship, events, building rentals, food & beverage, leasing opportunities, ticket sales
• Foster & nurture existing relationships
• Organize and manage outreach events and programs; attend in-person or virtual events to promote Western Fair District offerings and sell group tickets.
• Work and collaborate with the necessary teams to create marketing promotions for upcoming events
• Follow up with customers regarding satisfaction and concerns on a timely basis.
• Provide support across other areas of Western Fair Association as needed.
• Complete additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned.

Skills/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business or hospitality preferred but not required
• 5-10 years of sales experience required
• Established and credible network within SW Ontario
• Proficient in using Excel such as creating spreadsheets and pivot tables
• Can work with a team as well as independent when required
• Experience in lead generation and closing sales preferred
• Excellent customer service and communication skills

Other Responsibilities

• Promoting a positive and professional work environment and conducting role with integrity and respect.
• Act as an ambassador throughout the community, positively representing the Western Fair District.
• Abide by the policies and procedures of Western Fair District
• Other duties as assigned to meet the overall goals and objectives of the Western Fair District

Working Conditions

• Ability to work evenings and weekends including some holidays when needed.
• Environment – involves some office work as well as travel when needed.

Western Fair District is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to equity, value diversity, and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Western Fair District accommodates job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If a job applicant requires accommodation during the application process or through the selection process, human resources will work with the applicant to meet the job applicant’s accommodation needs.

To apply to the Business Development Manager role, please submit your cover letter and resume to hr [at] westernfairdistrict.com (hr[at]westernfairdistrict[dot]com)