POST TITLE:
Sales & Marketing Executive, Stadium Meetings & Events
LOCATION:
Connacht Rugby, Dexcom Stadium, Galway (Hybrid)
CONTRACT TYPE:
Full-time, 2-Year Fixed Term
ROLE:
The Stadium Sales & Marketing Executive will be a key member of the Stadium Commercial team within Connacht Rugby's wider Commercial & Marketing Division. This dynamic role will need to combine the commercial drive needed to maximise non-matchday revenue at Dexcom Stadium with the creativity to deliver engaging pitch responses, events and marketing that elevates the stadium's profile.
You will play an active role in generating and converting new business via meetings, conferences, events, and hospitality, whilst supporting brand marketing initiatives that strengthens the visibility of both Dexcom Stadium and Connacht Rugby in target markets.
This is a hands-on position for someone who thrives on building client relationships, best in class events and crafting compelling marketing content, with a passion for delivering world-class customer experiences.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:
Operational & Functional:
The Stadium Sales & Marketing Executive will report directly to the Senior Stadium Commercial Manager. They will also have a very close working relationship with the Senior Brand & Marketing Manager, as well as the rest of the Commercial Team.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Hospitality Business Development
* Support the execution of a developed go-to-market strategy, including marketing and sales plans by target audience.
* Understand industry trends, competitor offerings, and client preferences to inform the development and execution of bespoke event packages and services.
* Build relationships with tourism organisations such as Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, Galway Convention Bureau and event management companies to create a sustainable pipeline of leads
* Manage the end-to-end enquiry process through to contract and first deposit stage, before transitioning clients to the Stadium Facilities/Operations team
* Represent Dexcom Stadium at industry events as required
* Use and updating account management systems to maintain the client database
* Monitoring progress towards sales targets, generating reports, and identifying areas for improvement
* Assist the Senior Stadium Commercial Manager with various tasks including, but not limited to, sales campaigns and yield/diary management
Sales
* Carry out robust prospecting to identify leads and secure targets
* Conduct Site Inspections and Familiarisation Trips of the stadium with prospective clients.
* Creating and implementing plans to achieve sales targets, including pricing strategies, promotions, pitches and marketing initiatives
* Engage in both proactive and reactive sales activities, with an emphasis on long-term and larger bookings
Events
* Work with prospective clients to understand their objectives, schedule and plan events
* Maintaining ongoing communication with clients, addressing their needs, and ensuring their satisfaction
* Coordinate with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders to plan events and logistics
* Support from initial concept to event execution with stadium facilities / operations team
* Develop and maintain collaborative relationships and work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders (e.g. catering provider) to execute world class events.
Marketing
* Assist in the planning, creation, and delivery of marketing campaigns to promote meetings and events at Dexcom Stadium
* Create and adapt marketing collateral – such as brochures, event invitations, and digital graphics using design tools
* Using our target audience framework, support ongoing content creation for website and other touchpoints
* From time-to-time assist the Senior Marketing Manager, Connacht Rugby in the planning, creation, and delivery of marketing campaigns to promote the Connacht Ruby brand and teams
* Collaborate with the brand marketing and communications managers to ensure consistent tone, style and brand identity across all touchpoints.
* Other duties as assigned by the Head of Marketing & Commercial from time to time
EXPERIENCE/BACKGROUND:
* 3-5 years' experience in sales, hospitality, business development, and marketing roles.
* A degree level qualification in Business, Marketing, Events or Sales
* Previous sales experience within the meetings, conferencing, events, and hospitality sectors. This includes prospecting for new clients, attending trade shows, and networking to build relationships.
* Proven ability in managing and developing relationships.
* Experience in enquiry management software such as Cvent
* Graphic design experience essential
* Full clean drivers licence.
SKILLS/ABILITIES:
* Sales Experience:
Experience in a proactive sales environment, preferably within the venue, hotel, or agency sectors. Passionate about driving both sales strategies and overseeing event execution. Committed to delivering exceptional service and maintaining high standards.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills:
Essential for building relationships and presenting proposals effectively. With the ability to write clear, persuasive marketing copy
* Organisational skills:
Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively, adept at managing complex projects.
* Problem-solving skills:
Ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
* Understanding of hotel/venue operations:
Knowledge of various hotel/venue departments and their functions.
* Proficiency in CRM systems
: Familiarity with customer relationship/hospitality management software such as Opera Sales and Catering, Events500 and Cvent.
* Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
Approachable and enthusiastic personality, capable of building strong client relationships, with the ability to negotiate effectively
* Teamwork:
Collaborative team player with strong multitasking abilities
* Detail-oriented:
Process-driven, ensuring thoroughness in all aspects of work.
WORKING PATTERN:
Connacht Rugby has adopted a hybrid working model, with a requirement to be in the office approx. three days per week. The successful candidate will be expected to work appropriate hours to fully carry out their responsibilities. The nature of the work is such that these hours may be irregular or outside the norm i.e., during evenings and at weekends (including Sundays).
APPLICATION PROCESS:
To apply, visit to apply via our jobs portal with a cover letter and up-to-date CV. The closing date for applications is Friday 19th September 2025 at 5PM.
Connacht Rugby are equal opportunities employers