Susan Valen Email & Phone Number

Orange, Ca, Us

Marina Del Rey, California, United States

The Marina del Rey Tourism Board is the official destination marketing organization that promotes leisure and business travel for Marina del Rey. We provide support and information on tourism services and facilities to visitors, travel agents, tour operators, meeting planners and the media. Located along the Los Angeles coastline and only four miles from LAX, Marina del Rey is the largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America. L.A.’s Marina is an urban laid-back Southern California resort destination with waterfront hotels, restaurant and year-round water recreation all within a short drive to L.A.’s popular tourist attractions such as the Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood and SoFi Stadium.

Huntington Beach, California, United States

In the role of Director of Sales at Visit Huntington Beach, I was committed to maximizing the city's potential as a top-tier coastal destination for group meetings and events. By leveraging my expertise in sales and relationship management, I successfully cultivated partnerships with key stakeholders to drive revenue and economic growth. Forecasting and budgeting for group sales was a critical aspect of my role as a sales director, requiring a detailed approach and strategic mindset. By analyzing historical data, market trends, and projections, I developed comprehensive forecasts that outlined revenue expectations and sales goals for group bookings. Through effective budgeting techniques and financial planning, I ensured that resources were allocated efficiently to maximize ROI and achieve sales targets. I collaborated with the city of Huntington Beach on specific events that utilize city-owned event space for large-scale corporate and sporting events.

Costa Mesa, California, United States

As a Hospice Liaison hired during the pandemic, my primary focus was on developing positive relationships with customers, and to assist in streamlining the referral process. In the face of unprecedented challenges brought about by the pandemic, I adapted quickly to learn a new industry and provided education, resources and compassionate guidance for families during this difficult time. I partnered with medical providers, hospitals, nursing facilities, and national healthcare organizations to present the services and resources, advocating and educating on Hospice services.

Long Beach

As National Sales Director for the Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, I was dedicated to driving significant economic impact for the city by attracting high-profile events and conventions. Through strategic planning, relationship-building, and innovative marketing initiative, I successfully secured major conventions that generated millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses, the Long Beach Convention Center and area hotels. By showcasing Long Beach's unique offerings, world-class facilities, and vibrant culture, I positioned the city as a premier destination for conventions and events, creating lasting economic benefits for the entire community.

Orange County, California Area

As a senior account executive for the JW Marriott Camelback Inn and the Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains, I specialized in booking group incentive and corporate business from the Western region. I was dedicated to drive revenue and cultivate strong partnerships with key clients. Partnered with Marriott International national and local sales teams. Office was remote in Southern California.

Anaheim / Orange County

In my role as Director of Sales for this property, I successfully led a team of five professionals in sales, services and catering, driving exceptional results in group bookings with an annual increase of 43%. By implementing strategic sales initiatives, fostering client relationships, and leveraging the unique offerings, we achieved significant growth in group bookings year over year. We had the privilege of hosting high-profile NHL and MLB teams on our property, serving and supporting the Anaheim professional sports venues. Hotel was formerly branded Hilton Suites Anaheim/Orange.

Hollywood, Irvine, Brea

In my role as a Marketing Manager for the Improv Comedy Clubs, I was entrusted with the task of creating captivating group collateral to drive bookings and attract audiences. Leveraged targeted marketing strategies, innovated design concepts and compelling messaging, I successfully generated interest and increased bookings for group events, contributing to the visibility of the brand as a venue for group events.

Anaheim/Orange County

Contracted large group business from the association and specialty markets for this convention hotel adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center that features 1572 guestrooms / 100,000 square feet of meeting space. Partnered with Visit Anaheim and the Hilton National Sales and Hilton Direct sales teams to generate group business.

Anaheim / Orange County

Increased sales revenues by over 25% from local key corporate accounts. Appointed to board of directors for the City of Orange Tourism Council to develop tourism marketing programs.

Costa Mesa

Hired to develop a group sales program and market to tourism, corporate & incentive and non-profit events. Promoted to public relations, advertising, media and studio promotions efforts in addition to sales. Executed high profile celebrity events for movie premiers and media tours.