Director of Sales, Leisure

Raffles Hotels & Resorts

The Birthplace of stories and legends since 1887, Raffles is a legendary brand, steeped in history and loved by generations past, present and future. Raffles, at distinguished landmark addresses around the world, is the vibrant heart of its destination, curating experiences that are culturally enriching, intellectually stimulating and always respectful of local communities, heritage and the environment.

About Raffles The Palm

Opened in 2021 on the western crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the world’s largest man-made island and archipelago, this palatial beach resort, featuring 340 spacious rooms, suites and villas, is inspired by the stunning elegance of European palaces and embellished with handcrafted Italian furniture. Guests can enjoy panoramic views, a private beach, state-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, a VIP movie theatre, and signature and private restaurants complemented by exquisite banqueting and conference spaces.

More than a destination, Raffles the Palm Dubai embodies the spirit of a legendary brand, celebrated for its storied heritage since 1887 and its hallmark of intuitive, gracious service. At the palace, excellence is a craft, and every team member is a master in their field. Here, talent is not only recognized, it plays a vital role in shaping the next chapter of this extraordinary resort and its legacy within the brand.

Job Description

We invite you to join the world of luxury hospitality at Raffles The Palm as our new Director of Sales, Leisure. Reporting to the Director of Sales, you will be responsible for driving revenue growth within the assigned market segments, with a primary focus on the Leisure segment, while ensuring alignment with hotel sales strategies and standards set by the Commercial Director. You will contribute to the achievement of overall sales objectives through proactive business development, account management, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Financial:

• Contribute to the preparation of the annual Sales & Marketing budget and business plan for the assigned segment.
• Achieve and exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue targets, including room nights and total revenue production.
• Ensure accurate forecasting of revenues based on the most up-to-date market intelligence and booking trends.
• Monitor segment performance and recommend corrective actions to optimize revenue generation.
• Maximize profitability by focusing on high-yield accounts and premium suite business.

Administrative:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, production reports, and sales activities within relevant systems.
• Prepare and submit timely sales reports, performance analyses, and market feedback to the Commercial Director
• Assist in the preparation of the annual Sales & Marketing Plan and departmental performance objectives.
• Ensure compliance with hotel policies, procedures, and established sales standards.

Operational:

• Develop and implement a strategic solicitation plan targeting key accounts and high-potential markets.
• Manage and grow top-producing accounts within the Leisure segment, ensuring regular client visits and relationship-building activities.
• Conduct sales calls, client meetings, site inspections, and presentations to existing and prospective accounts.
• Identify new business opportunities and implement action plans to secure new revenue streams for the hotel.
• Represent the hotel at international trade shows, roadshows, and overseas sales trips as required.
• Collaborate closely with Revenue Management to align pricing strategies with market demand.
• Work in partnership with Sales, Catering, and Convention Services teams to secure required client information and close business opportunities.
• Participate actively in Revenue Meetings, Sales Strategy Meetings, and Pre-Convention Meetings.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs, sharing relevant insights with the team.
• Provide ongoing coaching and performance guidance to team members where applicable.
• Ensure all departments are fully briefed on Leisure programs and initiatives to guarantee seamless execution.
• Maintain strong relationships with Accor Regional and Global Sales Offices.
• Support interdepartmental collaboration to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
• Adhere strictly to hotel Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety regulations, and confidentiality policies.
• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned by the Commercial Director

Qualifications

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Strong understanding of the luxury hospitality and high-end Leisure market.
• Comprehensive knowledge of hotel operations and commercial strategy.
• Strong sales acumen and revenue management awareness.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong negotiation and presentation skills.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to convert plans into measurable results.
• Results-driven, proactive, and highly motivated.
• Ability to lead, coach, and inspire team members.
• Highly organized with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines consistently.
• Guest-oriented with a passion for delivering exceptional service.

 

EXPERIENCE &

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in hotel sales, preferably within an international luxury or 5-star property.
• Proven track record within the Leisure segment.
• Degree or Diploma in Hotel Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of Opera Sales & Catering and Microsoft Office.
• Solid understanding of the local and regional market.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory.
• Additional language skills are considered an advantage.

 

AND ABOVE ALL

• Embrace the Raffles brand promise and luxury in your role and in all your interactions.
• Foster an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued and respected
• Create an environment where colleagues are empowered, supported and recognized
• Drive top performance to achieve exceptional results

Additional Information

Employee Benefits:  

Join our team and enjoy a range of exclusive colleague perks, including complimentary upgrades, extended stays, discounted stays across Fairmont & Raffles properties , special dining and wellness discounts, and added luxuries to enhance your experience. We believe in taking care of our team, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded with exceptional benefits.

Our Values

Respect:
We value the needs, ideas and individuality of others. We treat everyone with fairness and dignity. 

Excellence:
We make genuine connections, and we cherish every opportunity to make the people around us feel special.​

Belonging:
We celebrate our differences. We support each other and we always stand together.​

Empowerment:
We have authority to take initiative and anticipate moments that create unforgettable experiences. ​

Integrity:
We build trust through mutual respect and being authentic.​

Diversity & Inclusion

Raffles is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse talent thrives. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join our team.

About the Application Process:

At Raffles, we want to bring out your highest potential. Shortly after applying, you will receive an email from our partner AssessFirst prompting you to create a profile and complete a questionnaire. This is a mandatory step for your candidacy to be considered as it enables us to explore your compatibility with this role and our culture of luxury excellence.