Sales Manager | Full-Time | Iowa Events Center
Company : SPECTRA
Location : Des Moines, IA, 50309
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 7 January 2026
Oak View Group
Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.
Position Summary
The Sales Manager is responsible for assisting in the overall execution of the Iowa Events Center’s sales initiatives for both the local and regional markets. The Sales Manager may be in charge of all aspects of select self-promoted events while also assisting Assistant General Manager, as needed with special events and other tasks as assigned. The Sales Manager should have strong verbal and written communications skills, the ability to manage several tasks simultaneously, be self-governed and self-motivated, possess a basic understanding of banquet and catering sales, public relations, advertising and special event planning and execution. The Sales Manager is an intricate part of the event team and is expected to recognize the value and benefits of teamwork. Open lines of communication within the team are vital to its success and that of the company
This role pays an annual salary of $50,000-$60,000
Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays)
This position will remain open until January 2, 2026.
Responsibilities
- Performs related work as assigned by the Assistant General Manager and GM.
- Meets specified goals and objectives for venue usage by promoting the convention center to all potential clients; conducts venue tours; answers questions and provides information regarding venue services, policies and procedures; and assists clients in finalizing booking arrangements.
- Primary sales contact for all groups within assigned market(s).
- Set appointments and make outside calls to potential clients.
- Make solicitation calls, assist with promotions and direct mail activities.
- Researches, identifies and establishes the appropriateness of groups for the venue.
- Attend industry events and tradeshows as may be required.
- Prepare event contracts, sales folders, sales kits and correspondence to clients.
- Enter and maintain complete and accurate information into booking system.
- Assists in developing and implementing the sales/marketing activities of the facility.
- Prepare reports, correspondence, memoranda, agreements and forecast projections.
- Serve as a liaison with industry representatives, the general public and other convention center departments and divisions.
- Prepare and deliver verbal presentations to groups of various sizes.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Analyzing competitors and target markets.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in sales, marketing or other related field and/or minimum 3-5 years of increasingly responsible experience in business to business sales required, preferentially with a sports facility, convention center, performing arts facility, or other multi-purpose public assembly facility.
- Prefer experience in conventions, banquets, entertainment, tradeshow/meetings with responsibility for scheduling, arranging, promoting meetings, lectures, exhibits, conventions, concerts or other related events.
- High school diploma or equivalent GED required.
- Strong computer skills in Windows environment and MS Office applications. Training on industry software will be provided.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and select holidays as required, in addition to normal business hours if needed.
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
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Frequently asked questions
Des Moines sees steady demand for sales managers in venues like the Iowa Events Center. Competition is moderate, with candidates often needing a mix of sales savvy and event coordination experience. Networking locally and showcasing familiarity with regional event trends can boost your chances.
Yes, sales managers in Des Moines must navigate a diverse event calendar that blends corporate conventions with cultural gatherings. Adapting sales strategies to local client expectations and seasonal event cycles is key to success in this market.
Strong communication, multitasking under pressure, and a solid grasp of banquet and catering sales stand out. Proficiency in client relations and event promotion tailored to live entertainment environments will set candidates apart.
Starting as a sales coordinator or assistant, professionals often advance by demonstrating results in client acquisition and event execution. Growth can lead to senior sales roles, regional management, or specialized event marketing positions.
Daily duties include client outreach, venue tours, contract preparation, and collaboration with events teams. Balancing sales goals with special event support requires flexibility and proactive communication.
SPECTRA fosters a team-driven culture emphasizing open communication. Sales managers benefit from structured marketing initiatives, training on event software, and opportunities to engage with diverse clientele in a high-profile venue.
The focus on both local and regional market sales combined with SPECTRA’s commitment to diversity and innovation makes this role unique. Sales managers here play a pivotal part in a globally connected venue management company.
This position offers an annual salary between $50,000 and $60,000, reflecting regional market standards for full-time sales professionals in event and venue management sectors.
Yes, flexibility is essential. Sales managers often work evenings, weekends, and holidays to align with event schedules, ensuring client needs and venue operations are seamlessly managed.
While not mandatory, certifications in hospitality sales or event management can improve prospects. Familiarity with local business networks and regional event regulations also proves advantageous for Iowa-based roles.