Event Sales Specialist

Space Center Houston is a space exploration learning destination dedicated to revealing how science and humanity power space exploration through meaningful, moving experiences about people and the courage, innovation, and teamwork they use to expand the boundaries of what's possible. We inspire guests of all ages to connect with the significance of space exploration as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to bring joy and wonder to the world. Owned and operated by the nonprofit Manned Space Flight Education Foundation, we are the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and a Smithsonian affiliate.

We are currently seeking a Full-Time Event Sales Specialist, responsible for generating event revenue through proactive sales, developing new external event clients, maintaining strong relationships with current event clients and executing world class events befitting the Space Center Houston brand. Detailed responsibilities and qualifications are shown below:

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the primary point of contact for external event inquiries, ensuring all inquiries are returned within a timely manner (generally one business day).
• Generate new event leads and drive revenue through various sales methods including face-to-face meetings, site visits, networking, and follow-up with prospective clients.
• Create and deliver compelling event proposals tailored to client needs and budgets.
• Meet or exceed sales targets and touchpoint goals to contribute to the overall success of the team.
• Identify and act on upselling opportunities with both new and existing clients to maximize revenue potential.
• Develop and maintain relationships with past, prospective, and current clients, ensuring satisfaction and retention through excellent service and follow-up.
• Collaborate with marketing, catering teams, and internal departments to drive promotions and ensure smooth coordination between sales and operations.
• Work closely with the Wolfgang Puck Catering team to identify client culinary needs and develop coordinated sales strategies and packages.
• Manage website inquiries from third-party platforms and ensure event information is accurate and up to date.
• Facilitate the addition of special tours and other events enhancements offered as needed.
• Create proposals and contracts and shepherd them through the proper internal approval process.
• Negotiate contracts within organizationally approved parameters and escalate if a need arises to deviate beyond those parameters.
• Manage website inquiries from 3rd party websites
• Work with the marketing and reservations team to ensure all website information for external events is current
• Ensure timely and accurate communication with clients through phone, email, and in-person meetings to capture all event details.
• Maintain an organized CRM system to document client interactions, sales activity, and event updates.
• Foster relationships with clients through consistent follow-up, addressing concerns and anticipating needs before, during, and after events.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure customer feedback is addressed, and ensure clients are satisfied post-event, paving the way for repeat business and referrals.

• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in event sales and/or coordination, with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales goals.
• A Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business, or a related field is preferred.
• Excellent sales skills, including lead generation, and relationship management.
• Strong ability to manage both sales and operational aspects of events, ensuring seamless coordination from contract to execution.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact confidently at all organizational levels.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, CRM systems, and event management software such as VenueOps, is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and handle high-pressure situations while maintaining a positive, professional attitude.
• Ability to anticipate client needs and manage multiple projects simultaneously with attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on client satisfaction and effective event execution.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, with occasional travel as required.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES / WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Primarily works in an office environment with frequent use of a computer, phone, and standard office equipment.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while working at a desk.
• Frequently communicates in person, by phone, and via electronic communication; must be able to exchange accurate information in these settings.
• May occasionally need to move about the facility to attend meetings.
• Work environment may include a mix of office settings and active operational areas, requiring adaptability and awareness of surroundings.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism.
• May be required to work occasional evenings, weekends, or special events based on business needs.
• May be required to travel occasionally for meetings or training sessions.

Space Center Houston is an equal opportunity employer. We promote a culture of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration.