Sales Manager, National Opera Center
DESCRIPTION
Job Summary:
The Sales Manager is a newly created position responsible for driving earned revenue growth at the National Opera Center through proactive, mission-aligned business development. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this full-time role leads the full sales cycle for studio, performance space, and event facility rentals, with a focus on attracting new clientele and deepening relationships with returning organizational partners. The Sales Manager operates with pricing and negotiation authority in consultation with the Director of Operations and works in close coordination with the Client Experience, Operations, and Technical teams.
Business Development and Sales
Lead business-to-business and organizational sales of rehearsal studios, performance spaces, and event facilities
Identify, target, and cultivate relationships with arts organizations, corporations, nonprofits, educational institutions, and production partners
Manage the full sales cycle from lead generation and prospecting through site visits, proposal, and contract execution
Develop and execute sales strategies to maximize facility utilization and earned revenue, in alignment with goals established by the Director of Operations
Meet or exceed annual earned revenue targets as defined in coordination with the Director of Operations
Negotiate rates, discounts, and rental packages in consultation with the Director of Operations
Develop and maintain sales collateral including rate cards, venue one-pagers, and pitch materials, in coordination with the Community and Social Media Manager
Represent the opera center on relevant third-party venue-finder platforms and event vendor directories
Support long-term partnerships and multi-year rental agreements
Client Relationship Management
Manage the sales-phase client relationship from initial inquiry through contract execution, handing off to the Client Experience Manager upon booking confirmation
Coordinate with the Client Experience Manager to ensure seamless client transitions and avoid duplication of outreach, particularly for institutional and organizational accounts
Represent the opera center at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities, in conjunction with the Client Experience Manager
Uphold brand standards and communicate the artistic and mission-driven value of the National Opera Center in all client interactions
OPERA America Member and Nonmember Sales
Communicate and apply the NOC’s member and nonmember pricing structure across all rental categories
Work with the OPERA America membership team to leverage membership benefits in sales conversations and actively pursue conversion of nonmember clients to OPERA America members
Maintain familiarity with Studio Happy Hours and other access programs as part of a full menu of offerings for prospective clients
Pipeline Management and Reporting
Maintain the CRM or lead-tracking system to monitor pipeline health, contract status, and repeat client history
Produce regular sales reports and revenue forecasts for the Director of Operations
Analyze market trends, competitor venue offerings, and client feedback to refine sales approach and inform pricing strategy
Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Collaborate with Operations and Technical teams to assess feasibility of client requests during the sales process, including technical configurations, AV needs, and special setups
Coordinate with the Opera Center Manager on contract workflows, billing processes, and certificate of insurance collection
Participate in outbound sales and engagement initiatives in coordination with the Client Experience Manager and Community and Social Media Manager
Manager on Duty (MOD)
Serve in the MOD rotation alongside other NOC management staff, providing on-site supervisory coverage for Customer Service Associates during assigned shifts (approximately 3–4 shifts per week).
Ensure venues are set up and ready prior to client arrival during assigned shifts
Provide on-site support and direction to Customer Service Associates throughout the shift
Send nightly closing communication at the conclusion of each MOD shift
Address client and operational issues as they arise during the shift; manage crises and escalate as appropriate
Qualifications:
1–3 years of experience in sales, venue management, arts administration, or a related field preferred
Demonstrated track record in B2B or institutional sales, preferably in a cultural, hospitality, or mission-driven environment
Experience with CRM platforms and sales pipeline management
Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to represent the organization with professionalism and warmth
Ability to work collaboratively across departments in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Alignment with the mission and values of OPERA America and the performing arts sector
Must be self-motivated and change-friendly
Must advance the organization’s equity and strategic goals
Organizational Summary
OPERA America, the national nonprofit service organization for opera, leads and serves the entire opera community, supporting the creation, presentation, and enjoyment of opera. Founded in 1970, OPERA America is headquartered in New York City at the National Opera Center. Over the past 25 years, the organization has awarded nearly $13 million in grants to develop new operas and music-theater works, foster innovative opera productions, engage audiences for opera, and increase access across the field. OPERA America also provides travel grants that allow members to participate in Network Forums and attend performances of new North American works.
Desired Start Date: September 1, 2026
BENEFITS
Pay Range: $28 - $28 Hourly
The Sales Manager is eligible for performance-based bonuses tied to meeting or exceeding targeted revenue goals. In addition to competitive compensation, OPERA America offers a comprehensive benefits package including employer-funded health insurance, retirement match after one year of service, and limited work-from-home opportunities. Employees have access to rehearsal and studio space at the National Opera Center.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online at https://www.operaamerica.org/salesmanager. Review of applications will begin immediately. Position to start no later than September 1, 2026.
Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
Application Email/Link: www.operaamerica.org/salesmanager