A job with Merlin isn’t like a job anywhere else. With attractions around the world, from rollercoasters to wax figures, we don’t trade in suits, handshakes or briefcases. We trade in fun, in smiles, shrieks and spine-tingles, in memories, in magic. But there are no tricks behind our magic. Instead, there are people like you. Passionate, dedicated people who are committed to making sure our worldwide attractions and guests’ experiences are the best they can be.
The Strategic Account Sales Manager is responsible for driving trade sales revenue, volume, and yield to budget across North America by managing a portfolio of strategic trade accounts. This role focuses on developing and executing sales strategies that foster direct growth through third-party partners while maximizing marketing impact and securing commercial efficiencies through effective negotiation. The position offers a hybrid work model, with a preferred base in Orlando, FL.
We are ideally seeking candidates with experience in hospitality or travel and tourism. This role requires a deep understanding of the industry, including its customer expectations, service standards, and operational dynamics.
Please note: This is a salaried position and does not include commission.
Main Responsibilities
Strategic Account Management
- Take direct ownership of up to 20 strategic trade accounts, ensuring the achievement of key deliverables and business objectives.
- Develop and execute annual sales plans for each account, outlining sales KPIs, marketing initiatives, and market insights, while providing ongoing training and updates.
- Monitor and evaluate weekly, monthly, and annual sales performance, identifying trends and opportunities to drive growth.
- Implement approved tactical sales initiatives to align accounts with budget expectations and revenue targets.
Revenue and Budget Management
- Deliver trade sales revenue, volume, and yield to budget for Merlin attractions across North America.
- Manage the cost of sales, optimizing commercial efficiencies through strategic pricing, commission structures, and distribution negotiations.
Market Development and Innovation
- Identify and develop new or innovative routes to market by leveraging existing client relationships and exploring new opportunities.
- Support trade sales strategies for new attraction openings, securing partnership agreements to drive initial and sustained growth.
Marketing and Partner Collaboration
- Drive consumer marketing amplification through partner activations, ensuring alignment with core brand messages and distribution channels.
- Work within a defined marketing budget, focusing on maximizing ROI and ensuring effective execution of campaigns in collaboration with key partners.
Experience and Qualifications
- Proven track record of managing and growing sales at a key account level, with demonstrated ability to meet or exceed revenue targets.
- 3+ years of management experience in commercial sales within a multinational business.
- Background in the tourism, leisure, or hospitality industry, with existing connections in the market highly desirable.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent level of education.
- Experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and managing large data sets.
- Previous experience working with park/attraction partnerships is an advantage.
- Multilingual abilities are a plus.