Director of Sales & Distribution Pre Opening Ritz Carlton Diriyah

About The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah

The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah is positioned within the historic area of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. This property aims to combine the cultural heritage of the region with The Ritz-Carlton's service philosophy, serving global luxury travelers and events. As a pre-opening luxury hotel in Riyadh and Ad Dir'iyah, it offers an opportunity to contribute to its commercial success.

Role Summary

The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah is seeking a Director of Sales & Distribution to join the Executive Committee. This full-time role involves leading the property's strategic commercial vision, market positioning, and revenue growth. Reporting to the General Manager, the Director will serve as the senior commercial leader, responsible for enhancing the hotel's presence in regional and international luxury travel markets. The position requires an understanding of luxury consumer behavior, global distribution, high-value market segments, and strategic relationship management. The successful candidate will develop the hotel's commercial strategy to attract guests, secure business opportunities, and strengthen its reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a commercial strategy to drive market leadership, revenue growth, and long-term asset value.
• Position The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah for luxury leisure travelers, corporate accounts, high-profile events, diplomatic clientele, and strategic partnerships.
• Lead all sales and distribution activities, ensuring optimal channel performance and alignment with luxury market expectations.
• Identify emerging business opportunities, market trends, and luxury travel demand patterns to enhance competitive positioning.
• Build and maintain relationships with ownership representatives, key clients, travel advisors, luxury consortiums, and international partners.
• Collaborate with Revenue Management and Marketing teams to maximize market share, rate integrity, and overall commercial performance.
• Mentor and develop a commercial team focused on excellence and results.
• Ensure commercial initiatives reflect The Ritz-Carlton's commitment to service and guest experiences.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Over 10 years of experience leading sales and commercial functions within internationally recognized luxury hotel brands.
• Understanding of luxury travel distribution, global account management, and premium customer acquisition.
• Business acumen with the ability to translate market intelligence into sustainable revenue growth.
• Leadership style that fosters accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
• Executive presence and the ability to influence ownership groups, senior stakeholders, and industry partners.
• Appreciation for luxury hospitality and an understanding of guest experiences.
• Experience managing complex luxury hotel operations, pre-openings, or flagship properties is valued.

Work Environment and Company Culture

As a member of the Executive Committee, the Director will work with Revenue Management, Marketing, Operations, and Ownership stakeholders to maximize performance while maintaining the brand's exclusivity and integrity. Marriott International is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diverse backgrounds and committed to non-discrimination. The Ritz-Carlton focuses on delivering "Gold Standards" of service, fostering an environment where associates are empowered to be creative and compassionate. Joining The Ritz-Carlton, part of Marriott International, offers opportunities within a global network of luxury and premium brands.

Application Information

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a significant luxury hospitality project. Candidates interested in shaping the commercial success of The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah are encouraged to apply.