Director Ticket Sales and Premium Seating

Job Overview:The role manages a team of individual contributors and/or Supervisors and is accountable for conducting effective performance management. The role is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing sales activities for the organization, focused on premium seating and hospitality, general seating, admissions, and event sales across NYRA facilities, including Saratoga Race Course and the new Belmont Park. This position drives revenue growth through strategic pricing, ticket packaging, and market development initiatives, while overseeing customer service, ticket fulfillment, and event activation. The role provides leadership for the Premium Sales and Ticket Sales teams and is commission and/or bonus eligible. Essential Functions: • Partner with the Vice President of Sales & Hospitality to develop and execute a comprehensive revenue strategy for NYRA venues.• Lead, manage, and mentor sales staff to achieve revenue and performance objectives.• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal departments including Racing, Marketing, Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Legal, Accounting, and Ticket Operations to ensure exceptional client service and contract fulfillment.• Oversee pricing strategies, ticket packaging, and on-sale plans to optimize revenue, control costs, and expand into new market segments.• Lead training and development initiatives for premium seating and hospitality sales staff.• Monitor, track, and report on ticketing and seating inventory performance.• Conceptualize, plan, and launch new premium seating areas and hospitality offerings that enhance the guest experience.• Manage ticket fulfillment logistics and event activation plans to ensure seamless execution.• Oversee multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.• Under the supervision of the Director, Ticket Sales, the staff will be responsible for:. Sell NYRA event facilities, premium seating, hospitality, general seating, admissions, and parking to drive sales revenue.Identify, prospect, and engage potential clients to initiate and advance the sales process.Customize sales presentations based on client objectives and business needs.o Conduct outbound sales efforts, including calls and in-person meetings, to secure new and renewal contracts.o Design and sell group and event packages utilizing NYRA venues and assets.o Assist in pricing strategies and the evaluation of event alternatives.o Support contract negotiations and ensure all agreements are reviewed and approved by the Legal Department.o Contribute to the development of sales and marketing collateral, including web, print, broadcast, and social media assets.o Coordinate access to premium seating, ticketing, parking, and hospitality inventory in accordance with NYRA policies and procedures to ensure superior guest experience. Qualifications: • Education (minimum): Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience• Experience: At least 10 years of successful ticket sales experience in the thoroughbred racing or sports entertainment industries.Other Requirements: • Excellent oral, written communication, customer service and problem-solving skills.• Proficient computer skills including experience with (Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook) as well as the ability to learn and master new software programs including NYRA’s CRM and ticketing system.• Ability to function in fast-paced environment, handle multiple projects and adhere to deadlines.• Driver’s license, ability to travel to Saratoga in the Summer. Available to work flexible hours including holidays, evenings and weekends.Knowledge Required:• Principles of sales via telephone, in-person and virtual communications;• Principles of customer service;• NYRA sales venues, products and services;• Ticketmaster Archtics ticketing application Summary of Physical Requirements and Work Environment: This role is primarily sedentary and performed in an office or office-like environment with no special physical demands required. The position involves extended periods of sitting with intermittent standing and walking, as well as occasional bending, reaching, and other routine movements typical of a professional workplace. The role requires regular hand manipulation, including daily typing and repetitive hand movements while working on a computer. Occasional light lifting (generally up to 10 lbs., and infrequently up to 30 lbs.) may be required. The work environment does not typically expose the employee to hazardous conditions. There is minimal exposure to environmental hazards such as moving mechanical parts, fumes, extreme weather, or high-risk work areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role. Pay Range / Salary: $126,000 - $150,000