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Conference Planning Manager Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

The Emerging ERP Solutions practice is all about bringing you the best in cloud-based ERP ... conference room pilots (CRPs) functional configuration, testing, client user training * Business ...

The Emerging ERP Solutions practice is all about bringing you the best in cloud-based ERP ... conference room pilots (CRPs) functional configuration, testing, client user training * Business ...

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

Event Manager

Mobile, AL · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

New

Event Manager

Mobile, AL · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

New

General Manager (Cullman, AL)

Cullman, AL

$47K - $65K/yr

... conference calls • Performs other duties and/or special projects as assigned in response to ... planning, budgeting, scheduling and P & L management experience • Must have excellent planning ...

General Manager (Cullman, AL)

Cullman, AL · On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

... conference calls • Performs other duties and/or special projects as assigned in response to ... planning, budgeting, scheduling and P & L management experience • Must have excellent planning ...

Project Manager

AL · Remote

$80K - $100K/yr

Manage all aspects of project execution, including planning, scheduling, resource coordination ... Coordinates conference calls and meetings; records meeting minutes as needed or follows up on and ...

Showing results 21-40

Conference Planning Manager information

See Alabama salary details

$10K

$54.4K

How much do conference planning manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference planning manager in Alabama is $51,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $52,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a conference planning manager do?

A Conference Planning Manager is responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of conferences, from initial concept through to execution. Their duties include selecting venues, managing budgets, overseeing logistics, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and objectives, and often supervise a team to handle on-site operations. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conference planning manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conference Planning Manager, you need expertise in event coordination, budgeting, logistics, and strong project management skills, often supported by a degree in hospitality or related fields. Familiarity with event management software, registration platforms, and budgeting tools is typically required. Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, negotiation abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success. These competencies ensure seamless event execution, stakeholder satisfaction, and the ability to manage complex conferences efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by a conference planning manager, and how can they be addressed?

Conference Planning Managers often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple vendors, and adapting to last-minute changes. Successful managers develop strong organizational and communication skills to keep all stakeholders aligned and ensure smooth event execution. They also stay flexible and proactive, anticipating potential issues and maintaining contingency plans for unexpected situations. Building strong relationships with reliable vendors and fostering teamwork within their planning team are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Conference Planning Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectConference Planning ManagerEvent Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees large conferences, manages budgets, coordinates logistics, and leads planning teamsAssists in event setup, manages smaller event details, and supports logistics
CredentialsBachelor's degree in hospitality, event management, or related field; certifications like CMP are commonHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience in event planning preferred
Work EnvironmentCorporate or large venue settings, often in a managerial roleVariety of settings including corporate events, weddings, and community events
Industry UsageCommonly employed in corporate, conference, and association sectorsUsed across diverse event types, including social and corporate events

The Conference Planning Manager typically handles larger, more complex conferences with strategic oversight, while the Event Coordinator supports various events with more operational tasks. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the manager position involves higher-level planning and leadership responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama?

For Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Conference Planning Manager jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Conference Planning Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Conference Planning Manager job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,362 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

$80 - $120/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Director of Group Sales is responsible for leading the group sales strategy and revenue generation efforts for a multi-property hospitality portfolio that includes a 236-room conference hotel with 25,000 square feet of meeting space, a 26-room Five Diamond luxury boutique hotel with a full-service spa, chef-driven food hall and Michelin Recommended restaurant.

This role oversees a focused sales team of three, including two Group Sales Managers responsible for Association and Corporate market segments, while personally managing Auburn University-related business, strategic partnerships, and the hotel portfolio's top-producing accounts.

The Director of Group Sales is responsible for driving group room nights, banquet and catering revenue, market share growth, and long-term client relationships while ensuring alignment with the overall commercial strategy of the hotels. The ideal candidate is a strategic and relationship-driven sales leader with strong experience in conference hotel sales, luxury hospitality positioning, complex negotiations, and market development.

Reporting Structure Reports To
  • Regional Director of Sales & Marketing
Direct Reports
  • Group Sales Manager – Association Market
  • Group Sales Manager – Corporate Market
Key Internal Partnerships
  • General Manager
  • Director of Catering & Event Management
  • Revenue Management
  • Marketing
  • Banquet Operations
  • Rooms Division
  • Finance
Key Responsibilities Strategic Group Sales Leadership
  • Develop and execute comprehensive group sales strategies to maximize occupancy, ADR, total revenue, and market share.
  • Lead proactive solicitation efforts targeting association, corporate, university, SMERF, and luxury group segments.
  • Personally develop and manage Auburn University group business relationships and strategic top accounts.
  • Identify and cultivate new business opportunities locally, regionally, and nationally.
  • Work with the Regional Director of Sales & Marketing to establish annual group sales goals, market action plans, and account development strategies.
  • Partner with Revenue Management to optimize group pricing, inventory management, and displacement analysis.
  • Collaborate with Marketing to position the conference hotel and luxury boutique hotel, effectively in the marketplace.
Account Management & Business Development
  • Maintain strong relationships with key meeting planners, university stakeholders, corporate decision-makers, third-party planners, and industry influencers.
  • Conduct high-level sales presentations, client entertainment, networking events, and site inspections.
  • Lead contract negotiations and ensure favorable business terms.
  • Develop strategic partnerships that enhance visibility and drive incremental revenue opportunities in the group market.
  • Increase market penetration within key group demand generators connected to Auburn University and regional business sectors.
  • Drive cross-selling opportunities between the conference hotel, luxury boutique hotel, spa, restaurant, and event venues.
Team Leadership & Performance Management
  • Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing group sales team.
  • Provide coaching on prospecting strategies, account management, negotiations, and closing techniques.
  • Establish clear accountability and performance expectations.
  • Conduct regular pipeline reviews, sales strategy meetings, and one-on-one development sessions.
  • Foster a collaborative, results-driven, and customer-focused sales culture.
  • Support career growth and succession planning initiatives.
Financial Management, Forecasting & Reporting
  • Develop annual group sales revenue budgets and monthly forecasting projections.
  • Monitor booking pace, production trends, market segmentation, and need periods.
  • Analyze sales performance metrics to identify opportunities and risks.
  • Prepare weekly, monthly, and quarterly sales reports for on-property, regional and executive level leadership.
  • Partner with Revenue Management to maximize profitability through strategic group pricing, business mix and pattern optimization.
  • Manage sales expenses and travel budgets responsibly.
Luxury & Brand Experience Oversight
  • Ensure the luxury positioning and service standards of the boutique hotel, spa, and restaurant are reflected throughout the sales process.
  • Align client expectations with operational capabilities to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
  • Maintain strong understanding of luxury travel trends and high-end group expectations.
  • Collaborate with operational leaders to ensure seamless turnover and execution of booked business.
Key Skill Sets & Competencies Strategic Sales Expertise
  • Strong group sales and negotiation skills
  • Experience selling conference hotels and luxury hospitality experiences
  • Market segmentation and business development expertise
  • Ability to drive market share growth and account penetration
Relationship Management
  • Exceptional networking and relationship-building capabilities
  • Strong presentation and communication skills
  • High-level client management and executive presence
  • Ability to manage complex and high-value accounts
Financial & Commercial Acumen
  • Forecasting and budgeting expertise
  • Understanding of hotel revenue management principles
  • Ability to analyze displacement and profitability
  • Strong business planning capabilities
Leadership & Team Development
  • Proven ability to motivate and develop sales talent
  • Strong coaching and accountability skills
  • Collaborative leadership style
  • Results-oriented management approach
Luxury Hospitality Understanding
  • Understanding of luxury guest expectations and service standards
  • Ability to position premium experiences and amenities effectively
  • Knowledge of corporate, association, and university markets
Technical & Systems Knowledge
  • Delphi or comparable Sales & Catering platform proficiency
  • CRM systems experience
  • Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
  • Sales reporting and analytics tools
Key Performance Metrics (KPIs) Revenue & Sales Metrics
  • Group Room Revenue
  • Group Room Nights Produced
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR)
  • Total Group Revenue
  • Market Share Penetration
  • Year-over-Year Revenue Growth
  • New Account Production
  • Top Account Retention & Growth
  • Group Pace vs. Budget and Forecast
  • Revenue Mix Optimization
Productivity Metrics
  • Lead Response Time
  • Conversion Ratio (RFP to Definite)
  • Prospecting Activity Levels
  • Sales Call Activity
  • Site Inspection Conversion
  • Account Production by Segment
  • Pipeline Growth & Accuracy
Profitability Metrics
  • Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) Contribution
  • Average Group Profitability
  • Displacement Analysis Performance
  • Group ADR Index Performance
  • Expense Management vs. Budget
Client Experience Metrics
  • Meeting Planner Satisfaction Scores
  • Repeat Client Percentage
  • Client Retention Rate
  • Net Promoter Score (NPS)
  • Guest Experience Scores Related to Group Business
Leadership Metrics
  • Team Goal Achievement
  • Employee Engagement Scores
  • Team Retention
  • Performance Review Completion
  • Training & Development Participation
  • Sales Productivity per Team Member
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Marketing, or related field preferred
  • 7+ years of progressive hotel sales leadership experience
  • Experience in conference hotels and luxury hospitality environments preferred
  • Proven success in association, corporate, and university market segments
  • Strong understanding of group revenue optimization and hotel operations
  • Existing relationships within university, association, or regional corporate markets preferred
  • CMP, CHSP, or similar hospitality certifications preferred
Success Profile

The successful candidate will be:

  • A strategic and proactive sales leader
  • Highly relationship-oriented and visible in the market
  • Skilled at balancing aggressive sales goals with long-term client partnerships
  • Financially disciplined and data-driven
  • Comfortable operating in both conference and luxury hospitality environments
  • A collaborative leader who drives accountability and performance
  • Passionate about delivering exceptional guest and client experiences while maximizing revenue opportunities
An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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