Director of Sales & Marketing
New Yesterday
Overview
Director of Sales & Marketing
Saddlebrook Resort | Tampa, Florida
An Independent, Iconic Resort in the Heart of Florida
We are seeking an experienced, strategic, and hands-on Director of Sales & Marketing to lead the commercial vision of Saddlebrook Resort , an iconic, independent destination resort located just north of Tampa. Known for its world-class golf and tennis facilities, scenic natural surroundings, and expansive meeting space, Saddlebrook is a premier choice for leisure travelers, corporate groups, and destination events. The property is ungoing a $92m renovation currently and is ready to be relaunched as a new resort by the end of 2025.
This is a high-impact role for a dynamic sales leader who thrives in an independent resort environment. The ideal candidate will bring at least five years of DOSM experience in full-service, upscale hotels or resorts. Florida market experience is strongly preferred. This leader must be results-driven, highly collaborative, and capable of driving growth across diverse segments while honoring the resort’s long-standing reputation for excellence.
Job Description Minimum 5 years of experience as a Director of Sales & Marketing at a full-service resort or hotel; experience in independent properties is highly preferred.
Strong familiarity with the Florida hospitality market, especially Tampa and central Florida leisure and group business segments.
Demonstrated success in driving commercial strategy, managing teams, and achieving revenue and RevPAR goals.
Deep understanding of digital marketing, guest segmentation, and branding for independent resorts.
Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with Delphi.fdc or similar CRM strongly preferred.
Financial acumen with ability to analyze and forecast performance across all business segments.
Excellent presentation and communication skills with comfort in reporting to ownership and executive stakeholders.
Highly motivated, adaptable, and collaborative — able to lead through change and guide a team in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Willingness to travel up to 10% for sales calls, trade shows, and key client engagements.
Lead all sales and marketing functions across Group, Corporate, Association, Leisure, Golf, and Event segments, ensuring alignment with the resort’s revenue goals and brand positioning.
Develop and execute strategic sales and marketing plans, including annual budgets, integrated marketing calendars, and tactical sales strategies to grow market share and direct bookings.
Oversee digital marketing , social media, paid media, and SEO/SEM strategy to expand visibility and drive direct revenue.
Foster strong relationships with key clients, third-party planners, and travel partners; actively participate in sales calls, site tours, and key industry events.
Collaborate closely with Revenue Management and Operations teams to optimize rate strategy, package development, and guest experience initiatives.
Leverage market analytics, STR, and competitive data to identify opportunities, guide forecasting, and support long-term sales planning.
Serve as the Saddlebrook brand ambassador in the community, across industry events, and with key regional and national partners.
Lead and inspire a high-performing Sales, Marketing, and Events team, with a focus on talent development, cross-departmental collaboration, and accountability.
Partner with PR and creative agencies to execute media campaigns and secure press coverage that reflect the resort’s lifestyle positioning.
Actively engage in local tourism boards, chambers of commerce, and economic development initiatives to strengthen the resort’s regional influence.
Responsibilities
Minimum 5 years of experience as a Director of Sales & Marketing in a four-star hotel or resort environment.
Prior independent property experience is strongly preferred; Midwest resort experience or pre-opening background is a plus. Will considered branded leaders with seasoned experience.
Demonstrated success leading commercial strategy, developing high-performing teams, and exceeding revenue targets.
Strong understanding of digital marketing strategy, guest segmentation, and brand development in the independent resort space.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; Delphi or similar CRM experience highly preferred.
Financial acumen, with the ability to analyze data, forecast performance, and deliver results across all sales segments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence presenting to ownership and senior leadership.
Self-motivated, collaborative, and adaptable to the pace and demands of a growing independent resort.
Willingness to travel up to 10% as needed for sales missions, trade shows, and industry events.
Why Saddlebrook Resort? Join a legacy property with deep roots in Florida hospitality and a renewed focus on future growth.
Make an impact by shaping commercial strategy for a beloved independent resort (that is wrapping a recent renovation) in a competitive destination market.
Collaborative, people-first culture where your leadership will drive real results for the team, the property, and the guest experience.
Competitive compensation, bonus opportunity, and relocation support available.
PIf972a61f0700-35216-38242788
- Location:
- Wesley Chapel