Director of Sales (Maternity Cover – Fixed Term)
London Heathrow Marriott
Full-time | Fixed-term maternity cover
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Director of Sales to join our team on a maternity cover basis. This is a senior leadership role responsible for managing the hotel's sales strategy, driving revenue performance, and leading the Sales team during a key period for the business.
Reporting to the General Manager and Kingfisher Director of Sales & Marketing, you will oversee the full sales portfolio across Business Travel, Group, and Catering, while maintaining strong client relationships and identifying new business opportunities.
This role is ideal for a confident sales leader who can quickly embed themselves into the business, maintain momentum, and deliver results.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Strategy & Account Management
* Develop and execute a robust sales strategy across all market segments
* Manage and grow existing key accounts while proactively identifying new business opportunities
* Drive revenue growth through effective account penetration and market analysis
* Maintain strong knowledge of market conditions, competitors, and industry trends
* Collaborate with central and off-property sales teams to ensure aligned and effective sales activity
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
* Build long-term, value-driven relationships with corporate, group, and leisure clients
* Represent the hotel at trade shows, sales missions, and industry events (UK and international)
* Host familiarisation visits, sales calls, and client entertainment where appropriate
* Ensure brand standards and customer service excellence are delivered across all booked business
Leadership & Team Development
* Lead, support, and develop the Sales Manager and Sales Executive
* Set clear objectives, monitor performance, and provide ongoing coaching
* Promote a positive team culture through recognition, engagement, and collaboration
* Participate in management meetings and contribute to wider sales and marketing initiatives
Budget, Reporting & Commercial Performance
* Support the development, execution, and monitoring of the annual sales budget
* Manage RFP processes including Wish/Want/Walk decision-making
* Produce accurate sales reports and forecasts for senior leadership
* Apply strong analytical skills to identify trends and opportunities for future performance
Operational & Brand Compliance
* Ensure compliance with brand standards, company policies, and reporting systems
* Work closely with operational teams to deliver a seamless guest experience
* Uphold health, safety, hygiene, and fire life safety standards at all times
About You
Essential:
* Proven experience in a senior proactive sales role within hospitality
* Strong knowledge of the UK hospitality market across multiple segments
* Demonstrated success in account management, business development, and negotiations
* Confident leader with experience managing and motivating a sales team
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Commercially astute with strong analytical and reporting capability
Desirable:
* Experience in a fast paced airport hotel or branded hotel environment
* Familiarity with RFP processes and corporate contracting
* Passion for delivering exceptional guest and client experiences
What We Offer
* Opportunity to work within a respected international hotel brand
* High-impact leadership role with autonomy and visibility
* Supportive senior leadership team
* Fixed-term maternity cover with a comprehensive handover
Working Hours
This is a full-time role, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility required to meet business needs.