Job Description
Main Function
The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities that drive revenue growth, increase occupancy, strengthen the hotel's market presence, and enhance brand visibility. The role focuses on building strategic partnerships, corporate accounts, government relationships, event business, and long-term client engagement while ensuring the hotel maintains its superior luxury positioning.
The ideal candidate must be a proactive, results-oriented professional with exceptional negotiation, networking, and relationship management skills, supported by a strong understanding of the hospitality industry.
Role Responsibilities
Business Development and Revenue Growth
- Develop and implement business development strategies to achieve revenue and occupancy targets.
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities across corporate, government, diplomatic, and private sectors.
- Generate business for accommodation, conferences, banquets, fine dining, spa, gym memberships, and other hotel services.
- Build a sustainable pipeline of new and repeat business opportunities.
Corporate and Strategic Partnerships
- Build and maintain relationships with corporate organizations, multinational companies, embassies, government agencies, NGOs, travel management companies, and event planners.
- Negotiate corporate rates, service agreements, and partnership contracts.
- Develop long-term business relationships that support repeat patronage.
- Represent the hotel during business meetings, exhibitions, and networking events.
Sales and Client Relationship Management
- Conduct regular sales visits, presentations, and client meetings.
- Maintain a comprehensive database of existing and prospective clients.
- Ensure timely follow-up on enquiries, quotations, and proposals.
- Develop customized solutions that meet clients' accommodation and event requirements.
Marketing Collaboration
- Work closely with the Sales & Marketing Manager to execute promotional campaigns and business development initiatives.
- Support digital marketing activities aimed at generating qualified leads.
- Promote the hotel's luxury facilities and unique guest experiences.
- Participate in brand awareness and public relations activities.
Event and Conference Business Development
- Source conferences, corporate meetings, weddings, private events, and social functions.
- Coordinate with banquet and operations teams to ensure successful event execution.
- Develop strategies to maximize banquet and event revenue.
- Maintain relationships with event planners and conference organizers.
Market Research and Competitive Intelligence
- Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and market developments.
- Conduct market research to identify emerging business opportunities.
- Analyze customer preferences and recommend innovative products and services.
- Prepare competitor analysis reports and strategic recommendations.
Revenue Forecasting and Performance Reporting
- Prepare business development plans, sales forecasts, and revenue projections.
- Monitor achievement of revenue targets and key performance indicators.
- Prepare weekly and monthly business development reports for management.
- Analyze business performance and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
Customer Experience and Retention
- Ensure clients receive exceptional service before, during, and after engagements.
- Conduct post-service follow-ups to strengthen customer relationships.
- Resolve client concerns promptly and professionally.
- Develop customer retention strategies to increase repeat business.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with Front Office, Reservations, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Finance, and Operations teams.
- Ensure all client commitments are effectively communicated and delivered.
- Support management in developing new hospitality products and revenue streams.
Competencies / Skills
- Strong business development and sales skills
- Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills
- Customer relationship management expertise
- Strategic planning and analytical thinking
- Revenue generation and target achievement
- Networking and stakeholder engagement
- Market research and competitive analysis
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software
- Knowledge of hotel reservation systems is an added advantage
Behavioural Qualities / Other Competences
- Professional and well-groomed appearance
- Results-driven and self-motivated
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Confident and persuasive communicator
- Innovative and commercially minded
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet ambitious targets
Experience / Qualification
- Bachelor's degree or HND in Business Administration, Marketing, Hospitality Management, Economics, or a related discipline.
- Master's degree or professional certification in Sales, Marketing, or Business Development is an added advantage.
- Minimum of 5–8 years experience in business development, sales, or corporate relationship management, with at least 3 years in the hospitality industry.
- Experience in a luxury hotel or premium hospitality establishment is highly desirable.
- Proven track record of achieving revenue targets and securing high-value corporate accounts.
- Membership of relevant professional bodies will be an added advantage.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Achievement of monthly and annual revenue targets
- Growth in corporate and government accounts
- Occupancy contribution from business development activities
- Number and value of new business contracts secured
- Banquet and conference revenue growth
- Client retention and repeat business rate
- Customer satisfaction scores
- Sales pipeline conversion rate
- Market share growth
- Timely submission of business development reports