Member Article

Ricoh Arena recruit experienced new business development manager

The new business development manager at the Ricoh Arena will be strictly about business rather than Strictly Come Dancing.

Jenni Ford, who attends the Telford Academy of Performing Arts, is already making appointments to visit companies of all sizes and in all sectors to discuss the Ricoh Arena’s flexible meeting rooms and conference suites.

The 45-year-old held several senior management roles within the Sears Group and when having her children she decided to work closer to home by taking up a role with Southwater Event Group in Telford.

She then became national business development manager at De Vere Hotels which included working at The Belfry near Sutton Coldfield.

Jenni was previously at Puma Hotels as director of sales for hotels in Harrogate and Blackpool before joining the Ricoh Arena.

“I will be contacting companies throughout the Midlands to talk to the decision makers whether that is managers, PAs, event bookers or agents,” she said.

“I will be promoting the IEC Elite Club which will be a loyalty scheme for local companies who use the Ricoh on a regular basis.

“We want to re-inforce that we are an ideal location for awards dinners for guests from 100 up to 800 as well as being a key venue in the exhibitions and conference market.

“Coventry and Warwickshire is the home of high-profile national and international companies as well as a hot-bed of activity for SMEs and I am looking forward to getting to know businesses throughout the area.”

Liz Cooper, marketing director at the Ricoh Arena, said this was a newly created role at the venue.

She said: “Jenni will be responsible for local and regional markets in her role as the newest member of our sales team.

“We are nationally renowned in the conference and exhibition market but we are keen to spread the message closer to home.

“We have fantastic facilities which are ideal for awards evenings, board meetings or staff training and Jenni is looking forward to meeting the Midlands’ business community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Matt Joyce .