Sales & Operations Manager

About the Company

RQT is hiring a Sales & Operations Manager for a well-established group within the meetings and events industry.

Reporting to the Managing Director and CEO, the Sales & Operations Manager will be responsible for driving sustainable revenue growth, leading the Italy-based team, and ensuring operational excellence in line with group strategy and budgets.

The Sales & Operations Manager is responsible for:

• Driving sustainable revenue growth and profitability in line with group strategy and budgets.
• Developing and executing the local business plan for the Italy office.
• Leading, motivating, and developing the Italy-based team to deliver exceptional client experiences.
• Ensuring the successful planning, delivery, and profitability of events and programmes.
• Strengthening relationships with key clients, partners, and suppliers.
• Representing the Italy office professionally at all times, both locally and internationally.
• Ensuring alignment with Group standards, values, and processes.
• Working collaboratively within a team while also delivering strong individual results.

The role requires strong leadership, commercial acumen, operational oversight, and the ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution.

About the Role

Strategic Leadership & Business Development

• Develop and implement the annual business plan, sales strategy, and budget for the Italy office.
• Identify growth opportunities within existing and new markets, clients, and product segments.
• Drive revenue generation through proactive sales leadership, key account management, and market engagement.
• Monitor financial performance against budget and implement corrective actions where required.
• Provide regular performance, sales, and financial reports to Group management.
• Ensure alignment with Group strategy, standards, and commercial objectives.

Sales & Client Relationship Management

• Lead and support the sales function to maximise conversion, margins, and long-term client value.
• Maintain strong relationships with key clients, agencies, and strategic partners.
• Oversee major proposals, tenders, and high-value client negotiations.
• Ensure client enquiries and proposals are handled professionally and within agreed response times.
• Represent the business at international trade fairs, sales trips, and client meetings.
• Accompany key clients on inspections, site visits, and familiarisation trips when required.

Operations & Service Delivery Oversight

• Oversee all operational activities to ensure seamless, high-quality event delivery.
• Ensure that programmes are delivered on time, within budget, and to company quality standards.
• Act as senior escalation point for operational or client issues during events.
• Ensure robust planning, risk management, and contingency processes are in place.
• Maintain strong relationships with approved suppliers and oversee supplier performance.
• Lead negotiations with key suppliers to secure competitive rates and favourable terms.

Team Leadership & People Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop the Italy-based team to achieve high performance and engagement.
• Set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and support professional development.
• Foster a collaborative, positive, and accountable team culture.
• Ensure effective resourcing, workload management, and succession planning.
• Promote staff welfare, open communication, and adherence to company values.
• Ensure compliance with HR policies, employment law, and internal procedures.

Marketing & Brand Representation

• Ensure all sales and marketing activities align with the company’s brand positioning.
• Support and contribute to marketing initiatives, content creation, and promotional campaigns.
• Act as a brand ambassador across all client and public-facing activities.
• Monitor competitor activity, market trends, and industry developments.
• Encourage client feedback, testimonials, and online reviews to enhance brand credibility.

Governance, Compliance & Administration

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Oversee accurate financial controls, reporting, and administrative processes.
• Ensure contracts, agreements, and commercial commitments are properly managed.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, ethics, and corporate governance.
• Attend management meetings, strategy sessions, and training as required by the Group.

General Responsibilities

• Act in the best interests of the Italy office and the wider Group at all times.
• Maintain flexibility and availability to work outside normal office hours as required.
• Uphold company standards regarding conduct, appearance, and professionalism.
• Support cross-market collaboration and group-wide initiatives.
• Undertake any additional responsibilities necessary to support the growth, reputation, and success of the organisation.