Account Director - Global Sales

Shangri-La; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Account Director to lead corporate and MICE sales in Saudi Arabia. This role involves developing strategic sales plans, managing key relationships, and driving revenue growth across the region. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the hospitality sector, a strong network within travel agencies, and the ability to travel within the GCC. Join a forward-thinking organization that values its employees and offers a supportive working environment, where your contributions will directly impact the company's success.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in hospitality or tourism with a focus on corporate/MICE.
• Fluent in Arabic and English with strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic sales plans targeting corporate/MICE segments.
• Build and nurture relationships with key decision-makers in travel agencies.

Skills

Business Development

Relationship Management

Sales Strategy Development

Negotiation Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Bachelor's degree in Marketing

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality

Job description

At the Shangri-La Group, we are a heart-warming family. We share something powerful — our genuine care and respect for others. Our strength lies beyond our harmonious surroundings and hideaway locations. It lies in our core values that guide us to treat each other with honour, as kin, as family. We strive to be the preferred employer by providing great benefits, a tranquil and sincere working environment, work-life balance, and recognition of efforts.

Shangri-La Group is seeking an experienced and dynamic Arabic-speaking Account Director to lead and oversee relationships with corporate / MICE segments and travel agents in Saudi Arabia. Based in Riyadh, this role is essential for driving revenue growth, increasing brand visibility, and strengthening relationships within the Kingdom's government and private sectors, while maintaining key partnerships with travel agencies. The Account Director will work closely with both the Regional and Hotel teams to align local strategies with the global sales objectives of Shangri-La Group. The ideal candidate must be able to travel easily within the GCC countries to support sales efforts and build relationships.

As an Account Director, We Rely on You To:

1. Sales Strategy Development: Design and implement a strategic sales plan to target the corporate / MICE segments and travel agents, maximizing revenue potential across Shangri-La's properties in the region while ensuring alignment with global sales objectives.
2. Relationship Management: Build and nurture long-term relationships with key decision-makers within corporate / MICE and travel agencies.
3. New Business Development: Identify new business opportunities and maintain a strong pipeline of potential clients in corporate and MICE sectors.
4. Account Management: Oversee and grow existing client accounts, ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction and retention.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with internal departments (Marketing, Operations, Revenue Management) and the Global Sales Team to develop tailored offers and packages that meet the needs of corporate / MICE and travel agents.
6. Event & Promotion Management: Plan and execute events and promotions targeting corporate / MICE and travel agents, ensuring effective execution and strong participation.
7. Reporting & Insights: Regularly report on sales performance, market trends, competitor activity, and client feedback to senior management and the Global Sales Team.
8. Contract Negotiation & Pricing: Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with clients, adhering to Shangri-La's policies and procedures.
9. Industry Representation: Represent Shangri-La at key industry events, conferences, and trade shows in Saudi Arabia and across the GCC, ensuring professional representation in global markets.
10. Compliance: Ensure compliance with all company policies and local regulations across all aspects of sales and client engagement.

We Are Looking for Someone With:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Hospitality, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in the hospitality, tourism, or related industries, with a focus on corporate / MICE and travel agent sectors in Saudi Arabia.
• Proven track record in business development and relationship management within corporate / MICE sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of the Saudi Arabian travel industry, including key players in government and travel agent sectors.
• Fluent in Arabic and English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills in both languages.
• Experience working in Global Sales Teams to integrate local efforts with global objectives.
• Ability to travel easily within the GCC countries to support regional sales initiatives and client relationship-building.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build rapport at all levels.
• Comprehensive understanding of the local culture, customs, and business etiquette in Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC region.

Local package will be offered to the successful candidate.