Director of Sales, Leisure

Discover the warm hospitality of Sofitel Dubai The Palm, a luxurious 5-star beachfront resort nested on the East Crescent of the renowned Palm Jumeirah.

Nestled amongst lush greenery on the idyllic shores of the Arabian Gulf, Sofitel Dubai The Palm offers a tropical and relaxing sanctuary, only a short distance away from the vibrant, buzzing metropolis of Dubai.

With touches of French elegance interlaced throughout the resort, we invite guests to enjoy an environment “Where life lives” and indulge in excellence.

The resort comprises of 360 contemporary guest rooms and suites, 182 serviced apartments, 4 ultra-luxury villas, Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, Fitness Centre, Kids Club and offers a large variety of dining options with 7 restaurants, 5 bars, and lounges.

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for the planning and management of the overall sales function for the hotel to achieve optimal occupancy, maximizing revenue, and meeting/exceeding hotel profit objectives.

Primary Responsibilities

Business Performance

• Prepare, implement and compile data for the strategic sales plan, monthly reporting, annual goals, sales and marketing budget, forecasts and other reports as directed/required
• Analyze monthly P&L and month-end reports, identify deviation from business plan goals
• Work with Finance and team in preparation and management of the department’s budget and financial forecasts
• Participate in management meetings to review progress towards achievement of business plan goals and develop the annual business plan related for the department

Sales & Distribution

• Manage tour operators and luxury market agents in European markets with a strong focus on Germany, Austria Switzerland, as well as Scandinavia  and the France
• Conduct daily briefing with department on current key activities
• Direct and manage all group, transient, and catering/banquet sales activities to maximize revenue for the hotel
• Survey, review and analyse competition, market trends, customer needs and comments in order to be proactive and adapt with business intelligence
• Determine the effectiveness of existing programs and develop new strategies
• Actively participates in sales presentations, property tours and customer meetings
• Evaluate changes in guest needs, the guest mix and competitive set, to recommend appropriate product/service and operational changes as necessary
• Participate in community and professional organizations to maintain high visibility and promote a positive image

Team Management

• Interview, select and recruit direct reports
• Identify and develop team members with potential
• Conduct performance review and manages performance issues that arise within the management team
• Constantly monitor team members performance, attitude and degree of professionalism
• Work with Talent & Culture function to ensure appropriate hiring, training, motivating, coaching, counseling and development of team members according to the changing needs of the business
• Conduct monthly departmental meetings

A minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role with high-end luxury resort or hotel

A minimum of 2-3 years of experience with Tour operators of the European market

German or French languages a plus

Ability to develop and grow business

Demonstated leadership with 2 years of experience managing a team