Convention Sales and Servicing Manager /Cedar Rapids Tourism

The Cedar Rapids Tourism Office serves as the exclusive convention and visitor's bureau under contract with the City of Cedar Rapids. This esteemed office is dedicated to marketing the city as a prime destination for events, conventions, meetings, and leisure travel. By showcasing Cedar Rapids' unique attractions, venues, and hospitality offerings, the Tourism Office plays a vital role in boosting the local economy through tourism and event-related activities. The office collaborates closely with local businesses, event planners, and community organizations to ensure that visitors have memorable experiences and that the city remains a competitive player in the tourism and convention industry.

As a vital member of the Tourism sales team, the individual in this position will have a dynamic role focused on actively promoting Cedar Rapids as a preferred destination for conventions and meetings. This role requires a proactive approach to sales by engaging directly with meeting planners through appointments, tradeshows, conventions, sales meetings, and industry-specific events. In addition to sales activities, the position involves managing the sales lead database through Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to ensure accurate tracking and communication with potential and existing clients.

The role also includes preparing compelling proposal and bid materials by collaborating with the marketing team, thereby supporting the sales process. Strong organizational skills are essential for organizing and hosting familiarization and site tours aimed at showcasing Cedar Rapids’ unique meeting and event venues. This hands-on activity allows meeting planners and event organizers to experience first-hand what the city offers, increasing the likelihood of securing events and conventions.

Further responsibilities include comprehensive client servicing activities such as coordinating transportation, managing financial assistance programs, ordering conference welcome materials and activations, overseeing servicing at overflow hotels, and collecting post-event data including testimonials and final room counts. These tasks ensure a seamless event experience and foster strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. The position requires collaboration with the Director to develop successful familiarization tours and strategic event planning to maximize visitor satisfaction and community impact.

Working in a professional, customer-focused environment, the role also involves engagement with visitors to the Tourism Office, answering inquiries, managing phone lines, and providing excellent front-line customer service. The work schedule is primarily Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm, but flexibility is required for travel and attendance at events, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. The Cedar Rapids Tourism Office is committed to equal employment opportunities, valuing diversity and inclusion across all dimensions of its workforce.