ABOUT LEGENDS GLOBAL | HUNTINGTON PLACE
Legends Global is redefining excellence in live events, venue management, and hospitality. With a global portfolio of 350+ iconic venues and a 360° approach that integrates Partnerships, Premium Experiences, Merchandise, Technology, and Operations, Legends Global delivers world-class results for clients and unforgettable moments for guests.
At Huntington Place Detroit — the 16th largest convention center in the United States — that global expertise meets Detroit’s energy, innovation, and resilience. Together, we’re shaping the future of live experiences in the heart of the Motor City.
THE ROLE
The Executive Director, Sales & Marketing will lead the sales, marketing, and public relations efforts for one of the region’s premier convention centers. This role is responsible for driving revenue through convention center sales, digital asset monetization, strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and naming rights while overseeing the public-facing image and brand positioning of the venue.
The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership for sales and marketing functions, develop innovative revenue-generating initiatives, and serve as the organization's primary media spokesperson. Working closely with organizational leadership, this position will ensure Huntington Place maintains a strong market presence, attracts high-profile events and partners, and achieves revenue objectives. As the official media contact, you will also manage the center’s public relations and ensure that all communications reinforce the center's reputation for excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Management of: Sales, Marketing, Public Relations, and Digital Assets:
- Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive strategies that maximize building rental income, monetize digital assets (including digital inventory, sponsorships, and naming rights), and strengthen the center’s market presence.
- Drive integrated marketing and sales campaigns that position the venue as a leader in the event space and attract high-profile clients.
- Cultivate a team-oriented culture that encourages creativity, collaboration, and a client-first approach.
- Revenue Growth & Digital Asset Development:
- Identify and capitalize on opportunities to monetize digital inventory, including online advertising, virtual event services, and digital sponsorship packages.
- Lead initiatives to secure high-value naming rights and long-term sponsorship agreements, enhancing the financial sustainability of the venue.
- Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop pricing models and packages for digital sponsorships, and advertising.
- Public Relations & Media Engagement:
- Serve as the convention center’s official media contact, managing all public relations and external communications.
- Develop proactive media strategies to promote key events, initiatives, and partnerships, ensuring positive press coverage and community engagement.
- Handle media inquiries, crisis communications, and public announcements, reinforcing the center’s reputation and brand integrity.
- Team Leadership:
- Provide leadership and mentorship to the Director of Sales & Development and Marketing & Communications Director, ensuring departmental efforts align with organizational goals and revenue strategies.
- Foster a culture of inclusivity, teamwork, and professional growth, empowering the team to innovate and exceed performance goals.
- Set clear performance expectations for the team and ensure accountability for revenue and client satisfaction targets.
- Digital Strategy & Innovation:
- Drive the development and optimization of the center’s digital platforms, including website, social media, and online marketing channels, to increase engagement and sales.
- Explore new technologies and digital innovations that enhance the center’s service offerings, including virtual event services, live-streaming, and digital advertising.
- Monitor digital asset performance and continually seek ways to improve and expand the center’s digital footprint.
- Financial Oversight:
- Manage the financial performance of the Sales & Marketing department, ensuring budgets are met and revenue targets for both physical and digital assets are achieved.
- Oversee the allocation of marketing and sales resources to maximize return on investment for both event sales and digital sponsorships.
Functional Leadership:
- Sales:
- Lead the Director of Sales & Development in executing strategies that maximize convention center bookings, long-term client relationships, and revenue generation.
- Develop and implement sales initiatives that strengthen market position and increase business opportunities across target sectors.
- Marketing:
- Oversee the Marketing & Communications Director to develop and implement client-focused campaigns and tailored messaging that increase bookings and long-term partnerships.
- Drive the development and optimization of the center’s digital platforms, including website, social media, and online marketing channels, to increase engagement and sales.
- Public Relations:
- Serve as the convention center’s official media contact, managing all public relations and external communications.
- Develop proactive media strategies to promote key events, initiatives, and partnerships, ensuring positive press coverage and community engagement.
Other Responsibilities:
- Perform other duties as assigned by the CEO or Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- 10+ years of experience in sales, marketing, business development, sponsorship sales, or commercial partnerships, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Experience in convention center, destination marketing, hospitality, sports and entertainment, venue management, or related industries preferred.
- Proven track record in securing digital sponsorships, naming rights, and maximizing digital asset monetization.
- Experience as a media spokesperson or managing public relations, including handling press inquiries and crisis communications.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to drive cross-functional collaboration and innovation.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus:
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits starting day one
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
- 401(k) with company match
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position operates onsite in a professional office environment within a live-event facility. Work is primarily sedentary with extended periods of computer use, along with occasional walking throughout the facility. The role requires the ability to meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and maintain focus during peak reporting periods.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Huntington Place / Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, encouraging Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and Protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.