Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Director of Middle East Sales
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Director of Middle East Sales
Director of Middle East Sales – Raffles London
Company Description
The Raffles London Located in the iconic Old War Office building on Whitehall, Raffles London at The OWO and The OWO Residences by Raffles comprise:
- A 120-room and suite flagship hotel
- 85 exceptional branded residences
- 12 restaurants and bars, including chef Mauro Colagreco’s signature offering
- Guerlain spa and Pillar Wellness
- A grand ballroom seating 600 guests
Job Description: Director of Middle East Sales
An exceptional opportunity to build a high-visibility Middle East sales strategy at one of London’s most prestigious luxury hotels.
Reports to: Director of Sales Key focus: Establishing and nurturing sales relationships with embassies, family offices, government agencies, bookers, niche agents, DMCs, and private客户 (both in the UK and overseas).
Core goal: Position Raffles London at The OWO as the leading high-end luxury hotel for Middle Eastern clients—whether for official delegations, corporate travel, leisure, or extended stays.
Key Responsibilities
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Market Penetration
- Develop Raffles London’s reputation as the top luxury destination for the Middle Eastern market, targeting high-value delegations, business travel, family groups, and extended stays.
- Drive brand presence and preliminary demand via direct stakeholder engagement.
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Sales Strategy & Budget
- Collaborate with the Director of Sales & Marketing and Director of Sales to design and implement budget-aligned sales strategies.
- Monitor competing hotels’ activities, school holiday schedules, state visits, cultural/political events, and economic shifts, adjusting strategies as needed.
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Account Development & Relationship Management
- Identify and prospect new accounts via calls, virtual presentations, and in-person visits.
- Lead account management for key clients to maximise revenue.
- Cultivate a portfolio of high-value accounts, ensuring comprehensive record-keeping (system updates, enquiries, follow-ups).
- Accompany Fam (Family/ frowned?) trips to increase loyalty among key Middle East stakeholders, coordinating logistics and funding.
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Operations & Guest Experience
- Actively contribute to VIP arrivals, delegations, and high-profile stays by understanding on-property operations.
- Establish deep personal relationships with key clients to ensure exceptional service excellence.
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Sales Operations & Administration
- Maintain accurate, updated sales systems (bookings, queries, account notes).
- Work with the Reservations Team to process requests proactively and creatively.
- Utilise revenue management insights to meet hotel targets in collaboration with the Director of Revenue Strategy.
- Respect budget allocations and forecast sales expenses.
- Communicate transparently with clients about payment terms/setul schedules.
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Reporting & Coordination
- Submit regular progress reports to management (Director of Sales).
- Align with:
- National Account Managers (Accor-wide)
- Regional Sales Offices
- Luxury Sales Teams
- Directors of Sales and Communications (for trade marketing, promotional activities).
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Innovation & Creativity
- Think beyond traditional boundaries—prioritise entrepreneurship and original ideas to grow the market share.
Requirements
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Middle East Sales with:
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Core Skills & Attributes
- Exceptional organisation, efficiency, and communication skills.
- Minimum 3 years experience in a comparable luxury hotel/branded sales role.
- Strong network of Middle East contacts and relationships.
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Technical Expertise
- Deep understanding of hotel operations, revenue management, and Algerian politics/Middle Eastern hospitality trends.
- Proven track record of account management and client retention.
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Refresher: Awards & Compensation Benefits
At Raffles, this role offers more than just prestige—it offers a competitive benefits package to support your professional and personal growth.
Annual Leave:
- 31 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
- +1 extra day per year of service (up to 5 years) → 36 days total
On-Duty Perks:
- Complimentary staff meals whilst on duty.
Uniform & Housekeeping:
- Free dry cleaning for work uniform.
Financial & Wellbeing Support:
- 3% employer pension contribution.
- Enhanced sick pay, maternity/paternity/adoption pay.
- Life Assurance (1x annual salary).
- Employee Assistance Program: Includes on-demand virtual GP services, financial advice.
Mobility & Commuting:
- Cycle-to-Work scheme.
- Season Ticket Loans.
Re spirit+ion & Socials:
- Colleague gifting (celebrating milestones).
- Paid time off (moving house or charities of choice).
- Internal learning courses tailored to career development.
Networking & Workplace Culture:
- Fun corporate events (pub quizzes, team runs, holiday parties).
- Employee Bening Card: 30% discounts globally at Accor hotels and Raffles London F&B outlets.
Career Growth:
- Worldwide development opportunities across Accor’s extensive brand portfolio (e.g. awards** Marriott, Pullman, etc.).
Raffles Core Values: Our Philosophy of Service
- Respect: We prioritise the needs, ideas, and individuality of each person, ensuring fairness and dignity for all.
- Belonging: Diversity is celebrated, as are mutual support and unity.
- Integrity: Trust is built through authenticity and mutual respect.
- Empowerment: We trust our team to take initiative and elevate their work environments.
- Excellence: We create personalised, meaningful connections, cherishing opportunities to make experiences unforgettable.
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