The key responsibilities of the role are:
1. Strategic Event Planning & Development
- Accountable for creating and implementing the resort’s long-term events strategy, aligning with the overall business goals and positioning in the ultra-luxury market.
- Work in partnership with the Sales and Marketing teams to identify key business opportunities that drive event bookings, including exclusive weddings, corporate retreats, fashion shows, product launches, and high-profile social gatherings.
- Lead market research and competitive analysis to continuously innovate and tailor event offerings that appeal to ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), A-list celebrities, and global corporate leaders.
- Develop a comprehensive calendar of signature events, ensuring that each event reflects the unique selling points of the resort.
2. Client Relationship Management & VIP Liaison
- Own the client relationship lifecycle, from initial inquiry to post-event follow-up, ensuring high-touch, personalized service at each stage.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for VIP clients, providing concierge-level support and anticipating their needs to ensure flawless execution of every detail.
- Work closely with wedding planners, corporate event organizers, and luxury event agencies to build partnerships that drive repeat business.
- Maintain an extensive database of high-profile clientele, ensuring that tailored communications, offers, and services are delivered to these guests before, during, and after events.
3. Operational Oversight & Event Execution
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of all resort-hosted events, ensuring a flawless and seamless experience across all touchpoints.
- Oversee multi-departmental coordination for large-scale events, ensuring full collaboration between Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Guest Services, Security, and external vendors.
- Create detailed event briefs, timelines, and contingency plans, ensuring every event aspect adheres to the highest standards of luxury service.
- Hold full accountability for risk management during events, ensuring all health, safety, and legal requirements are met while safeguarding the resort’s reputation.
4. Financial Performance & Revenue Management
- Full accountability for the financial performance of the events department, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting on all event-related revenue streams.
- Develop and manage annual departmental budgets in collaboration with the finance team, focusing on cost control without compromising service standards.
- Implement strategies to optimize revenue by upselling premium services, negotiating contracts with clients and vendors, and ensuring the profitability of each event.
- Oversee vendor negotiations and ensure that all contracts, from entertainment to catering, reflect the luxury brand standards while also being financially favorable to the resort.
5. Leadership & Team Development
https://careers.mandarinoriental.com/jobs/director-of-events-abu-dhabi-united-arab-emirates-b9a15d68-73e6-4929-a84c-3dae1a41074a
