Position Summary

OVG's hospitality division is seeking a highly connected, results-driven VP, Business Development, to accelerate growth and strengthen long-term partnerships within the U.S. convention center sector. This executive will serve as a market-facing leader and trusted industry voice, responsible for driving revenue growth, expanding market share for hospitality food and beverage accounts, and deepening client relationships across the portfolio.

The ideal candidate is a proven dealmaker and relationship builder, with both breadth and depth of connections across the convention center ecosystem—including public authorities, venue operators, city stakeholders, and industry influencers. This role requires a strategic leader who can originate opportunities, shape winning pursuits, and convert relationships into long-term partnerships, while also safeguarding and expanding existing business through proactive, high-touch client engagement.

Responsibilities

• Own and lead a proactive business development strategy focused on new food & beverage account acquisition and revenue growth within the convention center sector.
• Leverage an established network to identify, influence, and convert new business opportunities ahead of formal procurement processes.
• Stay deeply informed on industry trends, competitive dynamics, and public-private development activity to position OVG as a preferred partner.
• Serve as a visible presence in the market, representing OVG at industry events, conferences, and key networking forums.
• Build and maintain deep, trust-based relationships with decision makers and influencers, including municipal leaders, venue executives, and consultants.
• Act as a senior client partner and advocate, ensuring strong alignment between client goals and OVG’s service delivery.
• Develop and manage a robust pipeline of relationships and opportunities, continuously expanding OVG’s reach and relevance in the market.
• Drive the end-to-end sales process, from opportunity origination through contract execution.
• Shape and oversee the development of compelling, differentiated proposals and presentations aligned with client priorities.
• Lead complex negotiations in partnership with senior leadership to secure profitable long-term agreements.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive business development, sales, or client leadership experience within hospitality, convention centers, venues, or related industries.
• Bachelor's degree required. Masters degree preferred.
• Demonstrated success originating and closing complex, high-value deals.
• Deep understanding of the convention center landscape, including public-sector dynamics and procurement processes.
• Exceptional ability to build rapport, earn trust quickly, and sustain long-term relationships.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.