Director of Sales and Marketing

Location: On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is one of the North West’s most distinguished luxury destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and surrounded by a championship golf course, the resort combines Fairmont’s world-renowned elegance with the warmth and character of its local heritage. Renowned for exceptional service and attention to detail, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers guests an indulgent escape featuring world-class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities. Whether visiting for relaxation, celebration, or business, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments and delivering the very best in 5-star luxury hospitality.

Your purpose will be:

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is seeking a dynamic Director of Sales and Marketing to lead the hotel’s commercial strategy. This role is responsible for maximising revenue and profit, driving sustainable business growth, and identifying new opportunities to strengthen the hotel’s market position. As a key member of the hotel’s Executive Team, the Director of Sales and Marketing will play a critical role during the pre-opening phase and beyond, contributing to strategic decision-making, brand positioning, and the successful launch and long-term commercial performance of the resort. Beyond sales, the Director will oversee market alignment, strategic pricing, reputation management, customer insights, and marketing initiatives.

The ideal candidate will be a passionate leader and team player, highly organised, commercially driven, and relationship-focused. They will be proactive, detail-oriented, and confident in engaging with high-end clients, travel advisors, and industry partners, playing a pivotal role in maintaining the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

Your key responsibilities & contribution will be:

• Develop and implement strategic sales and marketing plans to maximise hotel revenue and achieve business goals.
• Manage department budgets, financial forecasts, and analyse monthly P&L reports, recommending corrective actions as needed.
• Lead and motivate the sales team, ensuring effective prospect management and pipeline development.
• Collaborate with the General Manager and Revenue Director on monthly forecasts, budgets, and function space yield maximisation.
• Direct all group, transient, and catering/banquet sales activities to optimise revenue streams.
• Analyse market trends, competition, and customer needs to inform strategic decisions and adapt business practices.
• Oversee all advertising, public relations, and promotional activities in conjunction with corporate marketing departments.
• Maintain high visibility across the property, participating in sales presentations, property tours, and customer meetings.
• Engage in community and professional organisations to promote a positive image of the hotel.
• Ensure the integrity of sales platform data and effective use of CRM systems across all verticals.

What you will need to do this role:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 4 years’ experience as a Director of Sales & Marketing in a single property or a cluster of hotels, ideally within a luxury brand.
• Proven track record of success in sales leadership roles within the hotel industry, with a strong focus on revenue growth and market expansion.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute effective sales strategies, drive results, and exceed targets.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a high-performing sales team.
• Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Sound business acumen and strategic thinking, with the ability to analyse market trends, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions.
• Proficiency in sales management software, CRM systems, and distribution technology

Please note that we believe in flexibility and multi-skilling, and you may be asked to do different tasks from time to time to enable us to meet the needs of our guests and colleagues.

What is in it for you?

• Exclusive Discounts:• Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount
• Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)
• 20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants

• Colleague restaurant
• Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
• You will benefit from training and development opportunities
• Competitive salary and benefits including pension
• 28 days of holiday including public holidays
• 1-5 days service award based on length of service
• Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
• And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people