Director of Sales & Distribution - Pre-Opening Ritz Carlton Diriyah, Riyadh

Director of Sales & Distribution The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Define the Commercial Future of a Landmark Luxury Destination Set within the historic heart of Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah represents a new chapter in luxury hospitality. Combining the rich cultural legacy of one of the Kingdom's most celebrated destinations with The Ritz-Carlton's legendary service philosophy, the property is poised to become a defining address for global luxury travellers, distinguished events, and exceptional experiences. As one of the most anticipated luxury hotel openings in the region, The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah offers a rare opportunity to help shape the commercial success of a destination that will stand among the most prestigious in the Middle East. We are seeking an exceptional Director of Sales & Distribution to join the Executive Committee and lead the property's strategic commercial vision, market positioning, and revenue growth journey. About the Role Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Director of Sales & Distribution will serve as the hotel's senior commercial leader, responsible for elevating The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah's presence within both regional and international luxury travel markets. This role extends beyond traditional sales leadership. It requires a sophisticated understanding of luxury consumer behaviour, global distribution, high-value market segments, and strategic relationship management. The successful candidate will architect the hotel's commercial strategy, ensuring the property attracts the right guests, secures premium business opportunities, and strengthens its reputation as one of the Kingdom's most sought-after luxury destinations. As a key member of the Executive Committee, you will work in partnership with Revenue Management, Marketing, Operations, and Ownership stakeholders to maximise performance while protecting the exclusivity, prestige, and integrity of The Ritz-Carlton brand. Key Responsibilities Develop and execute a comprehensive commercial strategy that drives market leadership, revenue growth, and long-term asset value. Position The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah as a preferred destination for luxury leisure travellers, premium 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 nurture influential relationships with ownership representatives, key clients, travel advisors, luxury consortiums, and international partners. Collaborate closely with Revenue Management and Marketing teams to maximise market share, rate integrity, and overall commercial performance. Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing commercial team that embodies excellence, innovation, and a results-driven culture. Ensure all commercial initiatives reflect The Ritz-Carlton's commitment to personalised service, exceptional quality, and unforgettable guest experiences. The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be a strategic, influential, and highly networked commercial leader with a proven track record within luxury hospitality. You will bring: Significant experience leading sales and commercial functions within internationally recognised luxury hotel brands. A sophisticated understanding of luxury travel distribution, global account management, and premium customer acquisition. Exceptional business acumen with the ability to translate market intelligence into sustainable revenue growth. An engaging leadership style that empowers teams while fostering accountability, collaboration, and excellence. Strong executive presence and the ability to influence ownership groups, senior stakeholders, and key industry partners. A deep appreciation for luxury hospitality and an understanding that commercial success begins with delivering exceptional guest experiences. Experience managing complex luxury hotel operations, pre-openings, or flagship properties will be highly regarded. Why Join Marriott International? Joining Marriott International means becoming part of the world's leading hospitality company and one of the most respected luxury brand portfolios in the industry. You will benefit from: Global career opportunities across Marriott International's extraordinary collection of luxury and premium brands. Industry-leading leadership development and executive career pathways. The opportunity to contribute to one of the Kingdom's most significant luxury hospitality projects. Access to a global network of commercial, luxury, and hospitality leaders. The prestige of representing The Ritz-Carlton, a brand synonymous with excellence, craftsmanship, and exceptional service. Create a Legacy in Luxury Hospitality Opportunities to shape the

The Ideal Candidate: A strategic, influential, and highly networked commercial leader with a proven track record within luxury hospitality. Significant experience leading sales and commercial functions within internationally recognised luxury hotel brands. A sophisticated understanding of luxury travel distribution, global account management, and premium customer acquisition. Exceptional business acumen with the ability to translate market intelligence into sustainable revenue growth. An engaging leadership style that empowers teams while fostering accountability, collaboration, and excellence. Strong executive presence and the ability to influence ownership groups, senior stakeholders, and key industry partners. A deep appreciation for luxury hospitality and an understanding that commercial success begins with delivering exceptional guest experiences. Experience managing complex luxury hotel operations, pre-openings, or flagship properties will be highly regarded.

Develop and execute a comprehensive commercial strategy that drives market leadership, revenue growth, and long-term asset value. Position The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah as a preferred destination for luxury leisure travellers, premium 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 nurture influential relationships with ownership representatives, key clients, travel advisors, luxury consortiums, and international partners. Collaborate closely with Revenue Management and Marketing teams to maximise market share, rate integrity, and overall commercial performance. Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing commercial team that embodies excellence, innovation, and a results-driven culture. Ensure all commercial initiatives reflect The Ritz-Carlton's commitment to personalised service, exceptional quality, and unforgettable guest experiences.