Manager, Sales Operations & Planning

Role Purpose

Manage key projects to support the Americas Global Sales Operations & Planning team in the planning, development and implementation of strategic and tactical programs, in order to enhance sales segment penetration and deliver competitive advantage for the Company. Drive the annual sales planning process, and work with the Director, Sales Operations and Planning to develop the Sales Operations and Planning team, and develop the business planning process.

Key Accountabilities

• Drive the annual target setting process for the AMER.
• Facilitate the [Region] Sales Incentive Process for accurate and timely seller payouts
• Audit Month End numbers to assist in the smooth validation of Sales Incentives and Target adjustments
• Coordinate sales operations projects as required or requested. Interface and coordinate project efforts with other Company Departments.
• Initiate and complete operational upskilling as measured by region engagement using various existing IHG sales systems and tools.
• Work with Global Teams, sellers, and support teams to understand key priorities and their business requirements by market segment.
• Ensure active and ongoing communication with Key Stakeholders as appropriate to those identified in-region priorities
• Provide on-going sales support and active engagement with region as directed by the Sr Sales Operations Manager.

Key Skills & Experiences

Experience

6 years progressive work-related experience within a regional sales team, hotel sales team or similar environment, with demonstrated proficiency and understanding of one or more sales functions related to the position. Demonstrated understanding of sales operations, key market segments, and general business knowledge and understanding of multiple disciplines/processes related to the position

Technical Skills and Knowledge –

• Demonstrated effective verbal and written communication skills for the purpose of providing information to key stakeholders, senior management and peers. 
• Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of sales operations and experience in assessing performance and in creating strategic recommendations to improve operational excellence.
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage relationships with Global Sales and the region. Ability to interact on a professional level with management, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain a consistent, high quality customer-focused orientation, including providing clear, accurate information; explaining procedures and making recommendations.
• Demonstrated practical problem solving by developing solutions and/or follow-up plans to quickly resolve communications gaps with hotels, clients and management. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of software systems, hotel systems, programs and training principles.(i.e Microsoft Excel, Salesforce, GRS, GDS, Saber, MeetingBroker, Tableau, Business Objects etc)
• Demonstrated analytical skills and ability to use the results of analysis to make effective strategic decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems in a systematic manner.