ROLE OVERVIEW:
The Golf Sales & Marketing Manager will play a key role in driving golf-related revenue through B2B and B2C sales, cultivating relationships with travel trade partners, DMCs, golf tour operators, corporates, and high-net-worth individuals. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the luxury golf travel market and a proven track record in proactive sales strategy and execution. They will develop and execute strategic sales plans to maximize golf revenue and deliver exceptional guest and member experiences.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Sales & Marketing Strategy Development:
Create comprehensive marketing plans to promote the golf club's offerings, including memberships, events, and facilities.
Set clear marketing objectives and KPIs to measure the effectiveness of Sales and Marketing initiatives.
Develop and execute a strategic sales and marketing plan to maximize revenue across resort assets including hotel room nights, green fees, golf groups, corporate events, and international golf tourism.
Brand Management:
Oversee the development and execution of brand guidelines to ensure consistency across all marketing materials and communications.
Foster a positive public image of the golf club through effective branding and public relations strategies.
Digital Marketing:
Manage the club's online presence, including the website, social media channels, and email marketing campaigns.
Utilize SEO, SEM, and analytics tools to enhance online visibility and engagement.
Content Creation:
Develop engaging content for promotional materials, newsletters, press releases, and social media posts.
Collaborate with graphic designers and copywriters to produce high-quality marketing collateral.
Market Research:
Conduct market analysis to identify trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape.
Gather feedback from members and guests to continuously improve marketing strategies.
Event Marketing:
Plan and promote club events, tournaments, and special activities to attract new members and enhance community engagement.
Coordinate with the events team to ensure successful execution of marketing efforts.
Future Business Opportunities:
- Identify and secure new business opportunities through international tour operators, golf travel agencies, sporting associations, and MICE accounts.
- Represent the resort at key golf and luxury travel trade shows (e.g., IGTM, IAGTO events, PGA expos).
- Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international golf clubs, corporate clients, and hospitality partners.
- Manage the end-to-end sales process from lead generation to contracting, invoicing, and aftercare.
Reporting:
- Provide accurate forecasting, budgeting, and reporting on golf sales performance.
- Act as a brand ambassador for the resort, upholding its reputation for excellence in service and guest experience.
- Coordinate with the golf operations, events, and hospitality teams to ensure seamless guest delivery and satisfaction.
Requirements
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in golf, luxury hospitality, or travel trade sales (preferably within a 5-star environment).
- Strong network of golf travel trade contacts, both in Ireland/UK and internationally.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a proven ability to close high-value deals.
- A deep understanding of the golf tourism industry, including group travel dynamics and seasonality.
- Ability to work independently, meet targets, and manage multiple sales channels simultaneously.
- Proficient in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and relevant sales reporting tools.
- Flexibility to travel for sales missions, trade shows, and networking events (domestic and international).
- A passion for golf and luxury lifestyle travel is highly desirable.
Preferred Qualifications
- BSc Degree in Business, Tourism & Hospitality, Marketing, or a related field.
- Proficiency in a secondary language would be preferred
- Exposure or introduction to CMAE/CMAA qualifications would be preferred.
