Nairobi County Location Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya Category Sales & Marketing, Customer & Loyalty, Communication, Revenue Management & Pricing FAIRMONT Job Start Date : 01/02/2024Job Start Date : 20/12/2023Job Type Permanent Add To Cart
The iconic Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is a remote luxury 5-star resort located in the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy in Nanyuki, Kenya. The hotel is rooted in history and has evolved from the vision of its founding members in the early 1930’s as a hunting ground to a beautiful story today as a hotel within a conservancy.
The organization plays a crucial role in its host community through conservation and sustainability initiatives. As part of the conservation work, the property has a goal to rehabilitate and release the antelope species called the “Mountain Bongo’s” who were heading towards extinction and hence continues to make historic strides for future generations.
Nestled in the lush foothills of Mount Kenya, it is strategically located on the Equator offering 100 luxury rooms and villas. The hotel features a prestigious main structure that reflects the 1950’s colonial architectural design with a luxury country club feel, complemented by independent quaint cottages, including William Holden’s original cottage which offers breathtaking views of the mountain.
The hotel guests can indulge in an array of exciting outdoor activities including animal orphanage visits, destination dining, bongo tracking, horse riding in the forest/conservancy, phenomenal breakfasts at the slopes of Mount Kenya, and open fire dinner concepts at the foothills of the Mountain. Moreover, the F&B offerings include an all-day dining restaurant, a fine dining grill restaurant, a bar, and banquets/wedding destinations.
Job Description
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club has been awarded Africa’s leading hotel in 2022 and 2023 by the World Travel Awards. We are looking to grow our team and engage a highly motivated and passionate Director of Sales who will specialize in the MICE segment and work alongside a collaborative prestigious team.
Reporting to the General Manager, as the Director of Sales – Leisure you will be responsible for driving revenue growth and developing relationships with leisure clients to maximize occupancy and achieve sales targets. Your exceptional sales skills, deep understanding of the luxury leisure market, and ability to provide personalized experiences will play a crucial role in enhancing the hotel’s reputation and ensuring guest satisfaction.
As part of your role you will:
Develop and implement effective sales strategies to attract leisure travelers, including individuals, families, and groups, in alignment with the hotel’s overall sales objectives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agencies, luxury groups and other key leisure industry partners to generate business opportunities and increase market share.
Identify potential leisure clients and conduct thorough market research to understand their preferences, needs, and trends in the luxury travel sector.
Proactively engage with existing and prospective clients, including conducting site visits, participating in trade shows, and hosting familiarization trips, to showcase the hotel’s unique offerings and amenities.
Prepare and present persuasive sales proposals, contracts, and presentations to clients, addressing their specific requirements and promoting the hotel’s value proposition.
Coordinate with various departments within the hotel, such as reservations, operations, and events, to ensure seamless execution of leisure bookings and exceptional guest experiences.
Monitor and analyze market trends, competitor activities, and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement and develop innovative strategies to stay ahead in the luxury leisure market.
Prepare accurate sales reports, forecasts, and budgets, regularly updating the sales director and senior management on performance, challenges, and opportunities within the leisure segment.
Stay updated on industry trends, emerging destinations, and luxury travel experiences to provide recommendations and continuously enhance the hotel’s leisure offerings.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field.
Proven track record of a minimum of four (4) years in luxury hotel sales, with a demonstrated ability to achieve and exceed management’s expectations.
Good network and existing relationships with leisure-focused travel agencies, luxury tour operators.
Initial knowledge of the luxury leisure market, including standards, customer preferences, and key industry players.
Good communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients and build long-term relationships.
Good presentation and proposal development skills to showcase the hotel’s unique offerings and value proposition.
Proficiency in using Opera and other sales tools to track leads, manage accounts, and generate reports.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a proactive and results-driven attitude.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to create reports and identify sales opportunities.
Flexibility to travel as required for client meetings, industry events, and hotel visits.
Additional Information
Employee benefit card offering discounted rates in Accor worldwide
Learning programs through our Academies
Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world!
Ability to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility activities, like Planet 21
Be part of creating the historic story of rehabilitating and releasing the rare Mountain Bongo that was heading toward extinction.
Working with a hotel rich in history and known for exemplary services while growing your career
Work and learn in a remote luxury property
“Diversity & Inclusion for Accor means welcoming each and everyone and respecting their differences by giving priority only to qualities and skills in extending employment and development opportunities.
Our ambition is to provide meaningful employment, a warm and welcoming culture, excellent working conditions and to promote the development of all people, including those with disabilities.
Do not hesitate to let us know of any specific needs you may have so that we can take them into consideration.”