For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation.
Position Overview
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Group Sales Manager to lead and grow our group sales efforts. This role oversees the group sales team; Group Sales Representatives, and seasonal Onsite Experience Coordinators. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing new business, managing existing group relationships, and creating strategies to expand our reach into key markets.
This position plays a crucial role in driving revenue by driving growth through the team and sales representatives in identifying, prospecting, and converting leads in areas such as summer camps, corporate groups, educational programs, and other specialty markets. The Group Sales Manager will also lead efforts to scout trade shows, expos, partnerships, and other initiatives that generate new business opportunities. The Group Sales Manager reports to the Senior Director of Sales & Marketing.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Management
- Manage the Group Sales Coordinator, Onsite Experience Coordinators, and Part-Time Sales Representative, setting goals, tracking progress, and fostering professional development.
- Provide leadership and oversight to the sales team, ensuring performance targets are met or exceeded.
- Work closely with operations and experience teams to ensure seamless execution of group events, from check in, activities, meals, to check out.
- Track ongoing KPIs and performance metrics for the sales team, implementing strategies to maximize efficiency and revenue growth.
Sales & Business Development
- Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to attract and retain group bookings across various markets, including corporate retreats, schools, and special interest groups.
- Research and pursue new vertical sales opportunities, identifying untapped segments that align with NOC’s offerings.
- Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients, ensuring high retention and satisfaction rates.
- Identify, scout, and attend trade shows, expos, and networking events to generate new leads and business opportunities.
- Collaborate with marketing to create targeted campaigns, promotional materials, and sales tools to drive group sales.
- Work with internal teams (e.g., Central Reservations, Adventure Operations, Hospitality, and Outdoor Schools) to optimize sales efforts, create sellable packages across teams, and bring them to potential clients.
Partnerships & Outreach
- Build strategic partnerships with organizations, associations, and other businesses to enhance group sales opportunities.
- Develop and nurture relationships with event planners, corporate planners, camp directors, schools, and tourism boards to increase group bookings.
- Stay informed about industry trends and competitor offerings to maintain NOC’s competitive edge in the group sales market.
Qualifications & Experience
- 3+ years of sales experience, preferably in group sales, hospitality, outdoor recreation, or relatable industries.
- Proven track record of developing new business and meeting or exceeding sales targets.
- Experience in trade show participation, networking, and lead generation.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and other sales-related tools.
Applicants must:
- Have a strong sense of customer service and enthusiasm for sharing outdoor activities with others.
- Be detail oriented while managing multiple tasks.
- Be a team player.
- Willing to grow and learn through feedback.
- Embody and exemplify NOC Core Values and Standards of Conduct.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Must be comfortable sitting for long periods of time.
- Must be comfortable speaking with guests over the phone, via email, and in person.
- Must be comfortable working in an indoor office environment as well as onsite in outdoor setting rafting, hiking, etc.
Primary Work Location and Schedule:
- This position will be a hybrid role both on NOC’s main Bryson City Campus, other NOC locations and partial work from home options to the discretion of the Director. Must live within a reasonable commute to Bryson City.
- Schedule will generally be Monday through Friday with some evening or weekend hours possible based on business and/or position demands.
- Overnight or weekend travel for tradeshows possible.
The above noted description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned, but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of the position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of the position.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.
