ABOUT COLUMBIA COUNTY

Columbia County is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, with pockets of quiet and peaceful springs. Columbia County is the home of Florida’s Springlands, with multiple natural springs, lakes, rivers, and nine beautiful state parks. In 2022, the US Census Bureau QuickFacts estimated Columbia County has a population of 72,000 residents. Columbia County is a southeast sports destination and hosts multiple tournaments and camps. Columbia County requires a diverse and dedicated workforce to provide services for Columbia County residents to live and work and for the visitors who experience our piece of the Florida playground. Consider applying for a position with us today.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The employee in this position is a results-driven sales specialist that actively seek out and engage customer prospects, build client relationships, as well as execution of client programs. Work involves providing complete and appropriate solutions for every customer to increase Columbia County hotel nights while maximizing economic impact.

Training and Experience

Minimum Experience: Bachelor’s degree in sports management, business, advertising, marketing or related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be substituted for the preferred degree

Professional Licenses/mandatory requirements

Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license or ability to obtain in the first six (6) months

Columbia County residency required within six (6) months from of date of employment

SALARY: Negotiable plus benefits

DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING APPLICATIONS: 07/02/2024

Each applicant is required to submit a complete County Application for Employment. Applications are available on-line www.columbiacountyfla.com/Jobs.asp . Successful applicant must be able to pass a pre-employment medical exam, physical agilities, criminal history background check, driver’s license check and drug screening. Applications can be emailed to: hr@columbiacountyfla.com or by mail, FedEx, or UPS to:

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

COLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

POST OFFICE BOX 1529

LAKE CITY, FLORIDA 32056-1529

(386) 758-3351; TDD (386) 758-2139

An AA/EEO/ADA/VP Employer

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

· Knowledge of current practices, principles, and regulations of sports programs on a county level

· Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to sporting programs

· Ability to proficiently operate computer software and related programs including, but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite of programs

· Ability to plan, organize, and manage time effectively and efficiently

· Knowledge of tournament execution, and group planning a plus

· Experience with selling sports events and group programs

· Familiarity with CRM practices along with the ability to build productive professional business relationships

· Highly motivated and target-driven with a proven track record in sales

· Excellent selling, communication, and negotiation skills

· Ability to create and deliver presentations tailored to the audience’s needs; including TDC Board, Commissioners, and Community groups

Essential Functions

· Present and promote Columbia County using viable solutions to existing and prospective customer programs

· Utilize cost-benefit and needs analysis of existing/potential customers to meet their needs including proposal presentation

· Establish, develop, and maintain positive business and customer relationships

· Reach out to customer leads through various methods: sales conferences, database, marketing promotions, and more

· Follow up with all clients to enhance retention from year to year

· Expedite the resolution of customer problems and complaints to maximize satisfaction

· Achieve agreed-upon sales target and outcomes within scheduled time frame

· Coordinate sales efforts with team members and other departments

· Analyze the territory/market potential, track sales and status reports.

· Supply management with reports on customer needs, problems, interests, competitive activities, and potential for new products and services

· Keep abreast of best practices and promotional trends

· Continuous improvement thorough feedback and consultation

· Assist in the execution of successful client programs

· Effective stewardship of Columbia County budgeted funds

· Supervision of local sports leagues for proper use of facility agreements

· Serve as a knowledgeable resource on local Partners

· Serve as lead sports staff member to the Tourist Development Council (TDC)

· Manage new and existing community relationships in a professional and organized manner

· Work with students, athletes, volunteers, group organizers and attendees

· Ability to travel and keep no traditional working hours, as necessary

Non -Essential Functions

· Special projects as assigned

· Attendance or involvement in local events, meetings, or functions

Work Environment

A positive office with a great team of professionals. Mobility and flexibility to attend meetings and events inside and outside the office as well as normal business hours. Outdoor tasks may be performed under varying weather conditions. Ability to travel and keep non-traditional working hours, as necessary.

Essential Physical Skills/Demands

· Acceptable eyesight (with or without correction)

· Acceptable hearing (with or without correction)

· Ability to communicate both orally and in writing

· Lifting up to 50 lbs.

· Walking, standing, bending, stooping, climbing, reaching, sitting, and manual dexterity

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