Sales Director

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Senior-Level | Remote

AT A GLANCE

Location: Remote (US). Travel to the New York area once a quarter.

Travel: Up to 30% across North America and internationally

Level: Senior Leadership

Industry: Cruise / River Cruising / Travel

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are conducting a confidential search on behalf of our client, a well-established river cruise brand with a strong international presence, for a results-driven Director of Sales to lead revenue growth across the United States and Canada.

This is a strategic leadership role responsible for developing and executing sales initiatives, building key partnerships, and expanding market presence throughout North America. The ideal candidate brings deep cruise industry expertise, a proven sales leadership track record, and a passion for premium travel experiences.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement annual sales plans and revenue targets for North America
• Lead, coach, and motivate a sales team to achieve individual and company goals
• Build and maintain relationships with tour operators, affinity groups, key travel agency accounts, and industry partners
• Identify new business opportunities, partnerships, and group sales prospects
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and sales performance to inform growth strategies
• Manage sales budgets, forecasts, and reporting
• Represent the brand at trade shows, industry events, conferences, and sales missions
• Collaborate with internal teams on promotional campaigns, webinars, training programs, and lead-generation initiatives
• Oversee CRM management, sales pipeline development, and account performance tracking
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with key partners and group organizers
• Coordinate with reservations, operations, and international headquarters to ensure exceptional partner and customer support
• Grow brand awareness and group sales market share within the North American cruise and travel industry

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 7 years of cruise, tour operator, or travel industry sales experience - river cruising or group/charter sales strongly preferred
• At least 3-5 years of sales leadership and team management experience
• Proven track record of achieving revenue growth and exceeding sales targets
• Strong existing relationships within the cruise and travel distribution community
• Excellent presentation, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills
• Proficiency with CRM systems, Microsoft Office, and sales analytics tools
• Ability to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally
• Ability to work on-site in NY at least once per quarter
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality, or a related field preferred

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Travel benefits and cruise familiarization opportunities
• Professional development and industry event participation