Madingley Hall and Gardens, a historic venue and premier conference destination, is seeking an ambitious and results-driven Conference Office Sales Manager to lead our conference sales operation. This pivotal role will shape the commercial success of our events business, driving over 4 Million pound in annualised revenue while delivering exceptional client experiences.
About the Role
As part of the senior management team and reporting directly to the Hall General Manager, you will lead a dedicated conference sales team and work collaboratively across departments to ensure seamless delivery of events. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring a balance of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and operational excellence.
Your mission: to attract new clients, strengthen existing relationships, and consistently exceed revenue targets, all while upholding the exceptional service standards for which Madingley Hall is renowned.
Key Responsibilities
* Drive Revenue Growth: Develop and execute sales strategies to achieve or exceed conference and event booking targets of circa 4 Million pound annualised.
* Client Acquisition and Retention: Prospect for new business, manage inquiries, conduct site visits, and build strong, lasting client relationships.
* Team Leadership: Manage, train, and inspire a reactive conference sales team, alongside marketing and administrative support.
* Operational Excellence: Oversee event planning from initial enquiry through to post-event follow-up, ensuring seamless handover to operations.
* Commercial Management: Lead budgeting, forecasting, pricing, contract negotiations, and financial reporting to deliver profitability.
* Marketing and Promotion: Collaborate with marketing to design and deliver campaigns, including digital, social, and traditional channels.
* System Optimisation: Maintain and enhance CRM and property management systems to support efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
Client Relationship Programme: Implement and deliver account management strategies for key and prospective clients.
About You
We are looking for a commercially astute leader with:
* Proven experience in conference and events sales, preferably within a hospitality or heritage venue.
* A strong track record of exceeding revenue targets and developing successful sales strategies.
* Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate.
* Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities.
* Strong organisational and analytical skills with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
* A client-focused approach and passion for delivering outstanding service.
Why Join Us
Madingley Hall is more than just a venue, it is a unique and inspiring place to work, combining rich history with a modern commitment to excellence. In return for your expertise, we offer:
* A competitive salary and performance-related incentives.
* The opportunity to shape and grow a high-performing team.
* stunning workplace in beautiful surroundings.
* Professional development opportunities and support from a collaborative senior management team.
Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be made to Mr David Toulson-Burke via email: david.toulson-
Questions about the application process may be directed to:
The closing date for applications is 10 October 2025
Interviews will take place on: week commencing 13 October 2025
Please quote reference EA47397 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
University of Cambridge Institute of Professional and Continuing Education
Salary
£42,254-£56,535
Reference
EA47397
Category
Academic-related
Date published
25 September 2025
Closing date
10 October 2025