Sales Manager - Art Shows Canada

Company Description

We’re part of Informa, a global business with a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries, and a member of the FTSE 100.

Our purpose is to connect our customers to information and people that help them know more, do more and be more. No other company in the world helps more people share professional knowledge or make business connections.

We run around 800 events each year, create digital platforms based on engaging news and information content, and operate professional development programmes for individuals and businesses.

Job Description

This role is based in our Toronto office 

About Art Toronto
As Canada’s premier art fair, Art Toronto has been the cornerstone of the national art market for over 25 years. Held each October at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, this internationally renowned event brings together galleries, art institutions, private and corporate collectors, curators, artists, and the public for a weekend of inspiration and connection. As part of the sales team, you’ll help shape the success of this iconic event, building relationships with exhibitors and driving engagement in Canada’s only international art fair.

About The Artist Project
Celebrating over 15 years of creativity, The Artist Project is a vibrant springtime fair dedicated to showcasing independent artists. Held at the Better Living Centre, this event introduces audiences to fresh talent and diverse artistic practices, creating a platform for direct connections between artists and collectors. As a member of the sales team, you’ll play a key role in supporting these artists and ensuring the event’s continued growth and success.

Ready to embark on a new and exciting adventure? Read on.

The Sales Manager – Art Shows Canada plays a pivotal role in driving exhibitor engagement and sales for Art Toronto and Artist Project, two of Canada's premier contemporary art fairs. This position requires a sophisticated understanding of the contemporary art landscape, with comprehensive knowledge of the Canadian art market and its integration within the global art ecosystem. The ideal candidate will combine strategic sales expertise with genuine passion for advancing Canada's visual arts community.

Key Responsibilities

Exhibitor Relations & Sales

• Drive comprehensive exhibitor sales strategies for Art Toronto and Artist Project
• Manage end-to-end exhibitor communications throughout the complete customer journey
• Provide expert booth design consultation and comprehensive onsite support for both art fairs
• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with gallerists, independent artists, and art industry stakeholders
• Develop and execute innovative sales strategies to maximize exhibitor participation and retention
• Identify and research potential exhibitors through market analysis and industry networking
• Develop targeted prospect lists and maintain active sales pipeline
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to generate new business opportunities

Strategic Planning & Programming

• Collaborate with the Director to establish strategic vision and programming focus for each exhibition
• Conduct thorough market analysis and competitive positioning assessments
• Contribute to long-term strategic planning and market expansion initiatives

Operations & Process Management

• Implement systematic, detail-oriented processes ensuring all exhibitor requirements are met efficiently and on schedule
• Maintain comprehensive exhibitor databases and detailed communication records
• Coordinate seamlessly with cross-functional internal teams to deliver exceptional exhibitor experiences
• Provide flexible support for additional organizational initiatives within our collaborative team environment
• Handle exhibitor inquiries, concerns, and service requests promptly and professionally
• Facilitate exhibitor feedback collection and implement service improvements

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Experience & Expertise

• Proven sales track record, preferably within art, cultural events, or related creative industries
• Deep expertise in contemporary art practices and comprehensive understanding of the Canadian art market landscape
• Demonstrated experience working effectively with artists, gallerists, collectors, and art industry professionals
• Strong knowledge of international art market trends, connections, and emerging opportunities

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building abilities with proven sales success
• Superior organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail and process management
• Composure under pressure with ability to maintain professionalism in high-stakes environments
• Authentic, warm disposition with commitment to customer service excellence
• Strategic thinking capabilities with strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills

Personal Attributes

• Passionate art enthusiast with genuine love for contemporary visual arts and deep appreciation for artistic expression across diverse mediums and cultural perspectives
• Cultural advocate with authentic commitment to fostering Canada's creative ecosystem and supporting emerging and established artists
• Relationship builder with natural ability to connect with creative professionals, understanding their unique needs and business challenges
• Adaptable communicator who can effectively engage with diverse stakeholders from emerging artists to established gallery owners and international collectors
• Results-driven professional with entrepreneurial mindset and ability to balance commercial objectives with artistic integrity
• Collaborative team player with flexibility to support organizational needs and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Resilient problem-solver who remains calm under pressure and finds creative solutions to unexpected challenges
• Continuous learner with curiosity about evolving art trends, market dynamics, and innovative exhibition practices

Additional Information

We work hard to make sure Life at Informa is rewarding, supportive and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s some of what you can expect when you join us. But don’t just take our word for it – see what our colleagues have to say at LifeAt.Informa.com

Our Benefits Include:

• Great community: a welcoming culture with in-person and online social events, our fantastic Walk the World charity day and active diversity and inclusion networks
• Broader impact: take up to four days per year to volunteer, with charity match funding available too
•  Career opportunity: the opportunity to develop your career with bespoke training and learning, mentoring platforms and on-demand access to thousands of courses on LinkedIn Learning. When it’s time for the next step, we encourage and support internal job moves
• Comprehensive time off package: 10 vacation days, 8 paid emergency days, 1 paid day to celebrate your birthday and up to 4 paid volunteering days
• Work from almost anywhere for up to 4 weeks per calendar year
• Competitive benefits, including Share Match program
• Strong wellbeing support through EAP assistance, mental health first aiders, free access to a wellness app and more
• Recognition for great work, with global awards and kudos programs
• As an international company, the chance to collaborate with teams around the world

This posting expires on 10/30

We’re not solely focused on a checklist of skills. We champion energy and ambition and look for colleagues who will roll their sleeves up, join in and help make things happen. If it sounds like a match and you have most – although not all – of the skills and experience listed, we welcome your application.

We’re not solely focused on a checklist of skills. We champion energy and ambition and look for colleagues who will roll their sleeves up, join in and help make things happen. If it sounds like a match and you have most – although not all – of the skills and experience listed, we welcome your application. If you would like to request reasonable adjustments or accommodations to assist your participation in the hiring process and, or in the advertised position, please inform the appropriate Talent Acquisition Partner for the role once they have been in touch. Your request will be reviewed and considered in confidence. At Informa, you'll find inclusive experiences and environments where all perspectives and backgrounds are welcomed. As part of this approach and our diversity and inclusion commitments, we are also formally an Equal Opportunities Employer. This means we base decisions on relevant qualifications and merit and do not discriminate on the basis of key characteristics and statuses, including all of those protected by law. Ask us or see our website for full information.

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