Executive Director - Trade and Distribution - Leisure (COR426)

Qiddiya Investment Company; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 449,000 - 675,000; Full time

Job summary

Qiddiya Investment Company is seeking an experienced Executive Director for Trade and Distribution in Leisure. This role involves developing strategies to engage B2B trade partners and promote Qiddiya as a premier entertainment destination, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in tourism and a strong understanding of leisure travel markets.

Benefits

Comprehensive compensation and benefits package

Qualifications

• 15+ years of relevant experience in the travel market and tourism industry.
• Strong understanding of both MICE and leisure travel segments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement trade engagement and distribution strategy.
• Build relationships with leisure travel trade partners.
• Conduct market research to inform trade marketing strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship Building

Market Research

Trade Marketing

Strategic Partnerships

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

As part of our mission to establish Qiddiya as a premier entertainment destination, we are seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director - Trade and Distribution - Leisure. This position leads the development and implementation of the DMMO B2B trade engagement and distribution strategy. Key roles and responsibilities include:

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a Trade Engagement and Distribution Strategy aligned with business goals and Saudi Vision 2030, in line with Qiddiya City’s evolving development
• Create an annual leisure trade business plan as part of the broader DMMO Business and Marketing Plan
• Build, develop, and maintain relationships with KSA and international leisure travel trade partners including tour operators, travel agencies, OTAs, and DMCs
• Develop partnerships with additional distribution stakeholders such as airlines, including partnership plans, contract negotiations, and joint marketing initiatives
• Ensure effective promotion of the destination through all trade distribution channels
• Plan and coordinate DMMO participation in key trade shows and industry events, attending all as required
• Develop and implement a FAM trip program to host and engage identified travel trade partners
• Promote destination offerings—including attractions, accommodations, and experiences—as they go live
• Manage international office representation teams and support appointments in new markets as needed
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders; media and PR relations managed by VP of Branding and Marketing
• Collaborate with the Strategy department and in-market teams to conduct annual trade audits and benchmark destination sentiment and trade insights
• Conduct market research to track travel trade trends and competitor activities, informing trade marketing strategies and identifying growth opportunities
• Build strong relationships with travel trade associations and industry partners to collaborate on joint initiatives and share best practices
• Leverage strategic partnerships to expand distribution channels and increase both visitor arrivals and spending
• Work with trade partners and internal teams to ensure Qiddiya City is included in trade partner programs
• Collaborate on product development initiatives to create marketable travel packages aligned with brand and audience targets
• Identify opportunities for new product offerings and work with stakeholders to design distinctive, experience-driven options
• Develop and apply performance metrics to evaluate trade marketing effectiveness, including bookings, revenue, and market share
• Monitor and analyze KPIs to assess the success of campaigns and partnerships
• Play a key role in building and leading the travel trade and distribution team over time
• Provide leadership, set clear objectives, offer feedback, and support professional growth within the team
• Undertake executive duties as part of the DMMO leadership team, including reporting, updates, and additional assignments from the Head of DMMO
• Remain flexible to evolving responsibilities as the needs of DMMO and Qiddiya City develop

• 15+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Strong understanding of both MICE and leisure travel segments
• Proven background in the travel market and tourism industry

Offering a comprehensive compensation and benefits package.