Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Valerie Lafferty

Santa Rosa,CA

Summary

Dynamic Senior Account Sales Manager with a proven track record at The Buy Local Media Group/Valley Yellow Pages, excelling in sales strategy development and relationship building. Achieved a significant increase in client retention and exceeded sales targets through innovative solutions and strong negotiation skills. Spearheaded a referral program, boosting lead generation and contributing to a 600% increase in local group meetings.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Account Sales Manager

The Buy Local Media Group/Valley Yellow Pages
09.2013 - 11.2024
  • Sold display and digital advertising to local businesses in Sonoma, Marin, Mendocino and Lake counties for business directories and internet platforms in 46 Northern California territories
  • Provided personalized customer service to ensure clients purchase advertising packages best suited for their budget and goals. Played key role in all ad design
  • Maintained over 200+ accounts and grew revenue 22%+ and achieved 98% account retention average yearly
  • Boosted client retention rate by providing exceptional customer service and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Exceeded sales targets consistently through careful planning and diligent follow-up with prospective customers.

Key Accomplishments

  • Achieved Double Bonus Awards, Revenue, New Account and Account Retention Awards for exceeding all goals in 2014, 2016-2020, 2022 and 2023.

Catering and Convention Service Manager

Four Points Sheraton Hotel
02.2010 - 08.2013
  • Booked 800+ corporate events yearly, including conferences, local meetings, and social catering events, for Marin County hotel and conference center with 235 rooms
  • Brought in average of $1M in business annually through outside sales, cold calling, networking and giving personalized tours to prospects
  • Negotiates contracts and played key role in all facets of events, including menu planning, conference set-ups, entertainment bookings, staff oversight and pre-con meetings with clients, staff and ancillary personnel

Key Accomplishments

  • Boosted weekly meetings of local groups 600% (from 2-12) via regular phone calls and personal visit, resulting in facility tours that won new business

Education

Empire College American Hotel/Lodging Assoc. Cert.
Santa Rosa, CA

Associate of Arts - Business Administration And Management

College of Marin
Kentfield & Novato, CA

Skills

  • Sales strategy development
  • Account growth and retention
  • Persistent problem solving
  • Strong negotiation skills
  • Relationship building, personalized customer service
  • Highly organized, efficient and persistent

Timeline

Senior Account Sales Manager

The Buy Local Media Group/Valley Yellow Pages
09.2013 - 11.2024

Catering and Convention Service Manager

Four Points Sheraton Hotel
02.2010 - 08.2013

Empire College American Hotel/Lodging Assoc. Cert.

Associate of Arts - Business Administration And Management

College of Marin
Valerie Lafferty