Manager, Business Development - Trade Sales

Position Summary: 

Silversea Cruises, a world leader in luxury classic and expedition cruising, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Manager, Business Development to join our growing team. This position will be responsible for driving new business, nurturing relationships, and contributing to the expansion of Silversea’s market presence. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sales, relationship-building, and strategic growth in the travel or cruise industry. The Business Development Manager will work within a team environment, collaborating with colleagues and Sales Leadership on strategic territory approach and goal setting/achievement.  The candidate will demonstrate a positive attitude and driven mindset, always striving to exceed expectations and contribute to the team’s success.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities within the luxury travel market, including high-net-worth individuals, travel agencies, and corporate partners.
• Make daily outbound sales calls to meet KPIs and drive business growth.
• Handle sales related inquires via department phone queue.
• Maintain a positive, proactive attitude, consistently aiming to exceed expectations and contribute to team success.
• Collaborate with the ASD field team and Sales Leadership on strategic territory planning, goal setting, and achieving targets.
• Support Area Sales Directors and Travel Partners with sales strategies and marketing initiatives.
• Assist with resolving selling-related issues raised by ASD’s and Travel Advisors.
• Participate in trade calls and support trade webinars, including virtual Q&A sessions.
• Use analytics to measure the success of strategies and adjust approaches as needed.

Sales Strategy and Execution:

• Develop and implement strategies to increase Silversea’s market share, including attending industry events, conducting sales presentations, and negotiating partnership agreements.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, travel agents, luxury travel influencers, and high-value clients to promote Silversea’s offerings and enhance brand loyalty.
• Monitor competitor activity and industry trends to identify new business opportunities and potential areas for growth.
• Work closely with the marketing, operations, and sales teams to ensure alignment in business development efforts, ensuring customer satisfaction and overall business goals are met.
• Attend networking events, trade shows, and conferences to represent the company.

Qualifications, Knowledge and Skills: 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sales, business development, or account management, preferably in the cruise, travel.
• Proven track record of achieving sales targets and driving business growth.
• Strong understanding of the luxury travel market, customer preferences, and trends.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to build and maintain long-lasting client relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel frequently as required.
• Must be proficient in communication skills including (but not limited to) Microsoft Office 365, including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint and CRM systems.