< Previous40 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Power List / Marketing Mazen El Jardali General manager, Al Reem Hotel - Jubail Over the past year, Al Reem Hotel - Jubail has made signifi cant strides in brand awareness, revenue growth, and establishing itself as a premier destination. Strategic marketing campaigns targeted new segments, notably boosting hotel occupancy. Collaborations with social media experts and local agencies expanded the audience and converted interest into bookings. Enhanced dining experiences with diverse cuisines and fresh, local ingredients drew increased foot traffi c. Upgrades to meeting facilities and competitive packages positioned the hotel as the top choice for business, refl ecting the dedication of the team and setting a promising path for the future. Mohamad Hijazy Marketing manager, voco Dubai, an IHG Hotel Mohamad Hijazy’s esteemed career in hospitality began in 2017 at IHG Hotels and Resorts, where he excelled at InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut. In December 2022, he joined the pre-opening team at voco Dubai The Palm as marketing manager, successfully positioning the hotel as a premium-lifestyle destination through strategic campaigns. He drove digital strategies resulting in signifi cant room bookings and revenue. Hijazy innovated the 30-hour summer staycation package, boosting revenue. His focus on F&B outlets like Maison Mathis and Frenia led to successful events and increased revenue. Marwan Al Zadjali Director of marketing at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort Marwan Al Zadjali brings over a decade of expertise in hotel marketing. In 2023, Al Zadjali led the production of a captivating promotional video for Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, aimed specifically at UAE audiences. This video became a pivotal element of the resort’s marketing strategy, enhancing direct bookings and generating over US$9,000 in revenue while signifi cantly boosting the resort’s digital footprint in the regional market. Under his leadership, the resort’s Instagram followers surged by 40 percent, thanks to strategic partnerships with global infl uencers and compelling content spearheaded by him. Miguel Rojas Brand marketing director, Rove Hotels Over the past year, Miguel Rojas has signifi cantly elevated the brand’s profi le and driven its commercial success. His strategic initiatives included launching Rove Home residences and enhancing the hotel’s sustainability focus, notably with a commitment to plant a tree for every room booked during COP28. This eff ort aligned with promoting Rove Hotels as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality. Rojas also innovated with the ‘Double The Flavour, None of The Waste’ Iftar promotion, combating food waste and reinforcing responsible hospitality. His 100 percent increase in social media engagement further display his eff ective leadership. MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 41 Power List / Marketing Mohamad Negro Cluster marketing manager, Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira and Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah Mohamad Negro currently serves as the Cluster Marketing Manager for Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira and Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah. Negro’s leadership shines through pioneering social media campaigns and management of digital advertising, resulting in signifi cant revenue boosts and impressive returns on investment. His social media campaigns, targeting local and GCC markets for the properties, saw a growth in website visits by 51% YTD, while the F&B campaigns generated an increase of AED2 million YTD, refl ecting his profi ciency in digital marketing. Negro’s experience of 15 years, his multifaceted contributions and commitment to professional development, backed by a Master’s degree from Western Sydney University, set him apart in the hospitality industry, driving success for the properties led by him. Mohamed Adel Director of marketing and communications, Shangri-La Jeddah Mohamed Adel has carved a path in marketing and PR, infl uencing Saudi Arabia’s luxury hospitality scene for over 12 years. He gained recognition for his partnerships with local organisations like the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Motor Sport, and major local artists. In the duration of his career, Adel helped open six properties of various brands across KSA in seven years, showcasing his skills in project management and market expansion. In his current role, his ability to blend marketing expertise with operational insights for a successful launch. Over the past two years, he has helped launch fi ve international standalone dining outlets within the hotel. Mohanad Thabet Marketing and communications manager, Address Sky View Mohanad Thabet brings a diverse background from reputable companies like Noon and Emaar Hospitality Group. Currently the Marketing and Communications Manager at Address Sky View, his notable achievements include impressive PR results during the 2024 Ramadan Campaign, achieving a total PR value exceeding AED1.3 million. Thabet’s role extends to developing bespoke imagery for key campaigns, contributing to revenue generation such as the Sky Retreat campaign, which yielded over AED1 million. His strategic direction also enhanced the property’s social media presence, garnering approximately 30,000 new followers on Instagram. Natavan Malikova Director of marketing, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Natavan Malikova’s leadership has consistently driven achievements and revenue growth. With strengths in strategic planning and partnership building, she led the pre-opening marketing at W Muscat before moving to the JW Marriott hotel Riyadh and then to her current position at The Ritz-Carlton Doha. In her current role, she is responsible for developing and implementing strategic marketing plans to promote the brand, increase revenue, and establish and nurture strategic partnerships. Her GM Carlo Javakhia said: “Natavan brings great value to the brand and the overall business. I admire her work ethics and resilience.”42 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Power List / Marketing Paromita Ohri Director of marketing & communications, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah Boasting over 12 years of hospitality experience in UAE, Paromita Ohri’s journey began as Corporate Head of Marketing & PR at Auris Group of Hotels, leading to roles at Hilton, including Brand Storyteller for Hilton Focus Group UAE. Paromita’s ascent to directorship underscores skills in marketing and communication leadership. In 2023, Ohri’s notable PR campaign was the introduction of the fi rst Italian Hypercar Pambuff etti PJ 01 in the Middle East, garnering a USD 243k PR value and reaching 24 million Unique Visitors per Month. She achieved 400% digital growth and 28% social media engagement, inaugurated the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market with 10,000 visitors, and secured numerous awards like Golden Travel Awards. Ohri’s revenue-driven campaigns garnered 16 million impressions and a 47:1 ROI, while the introduction of the Waldorf Astoria Times Magazine drove increased brand awareness and revenue growth for the resort. Nazlee Tayob Multi-property director of marketing, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Al Maha – A Luxury Collection Desert Resort And Spa, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Fujairah, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites With over a decade of experience in PR and Marketing, Nazlee Tayob’s strengths lie in her ability to orchestrate successful F&B campaigns. Under her leadership, the properties have implemented captivating content, earning numerous awards, while her chef collab between Tong Thai and BB Social, led to fully booked venues and equivalent revenue to NYE. Tayob’s adept management of social media campaigns has resulted in a growth of over 2.24 million Google ad impressions and 180,000 clicks from social media ads in 2023. Nina Mohamed Director of marketing & communications, Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island Nina Mohamed brings over 14 years of hospitality industry experience. She excels in orchestrating campaigns driving revenue. At Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Mohamed’s implementation of brunch events at tracted higher footfall and positive reviews, establishing the resort as a top choice for weekend indulgence. The resort also received prestigious awards, including three for the best staycation in the Northern Emirates in 2023. These accolades validate the resort’s commitment to guest experiences and signify its rapid ascent in the competitive hospitality landscape. Niza Martinez Marketing manager, Holiday Inn & Suites Dubai Science Park Niza Martinez’s 11-year tenure in hospitality spans roles from Sales Account Executive to Assistant Marketing Manager, providing her expertise in event management, collaboration, and 360-degree marketing. In the past year, Martinez has excelled as Pre-opening Marketing Manager as she achieved a remarkable 26% cost savings YTD while driving digital reach and revenue. Martinez spearheaded effective digital advertising campaigns, placing ads on platforms targeting local and GCC Markets. Through optimisation, she ensured maximum visibility and reach, resulting in increases in web traffi c, direct bookings, and revenue.MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 43 Power List / Marketing Pramukshi Kariyawasam Director of marketing & communications, Shangri-La Dubai Pramukshi Kariyawasam’s 14 years of expertise in spans across Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the UAE, where she has successfully managed diverse portfolios and spearheaded property pre-openings and openings. In 2023, Kariyawasam orchestrated a 360-integrated marketing campaign to promote Shangri La Dubai’s newly launched room category, Picture- Perfect Room, achieving a PR value of US$3.5 million and a social media reach of 4.5 million. She established collaborative partnerships with infl uencers, generating over 500 high- quality images and videos for marketing purposes at no cost. She has also targeted tactical promotions for F&B outlets. Rana Eid Director of marketing and communications, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Rana Eid brings over a decade of industry experience in leading successful campaigns at renowned properties. She orchestrated initiatives that elevated the property’s profi le and revenue, some include the launch of the fi rst Easter brunch, attracting over 780 guests and generating AED550,000 in a single day. Her PR eff orts garnered 396 pieces of coverage, reaching an audience of 362 million with a PR value of US$10 million. Rana also played a pivotal role in strengthening the property’s digital presence, investing in pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns and collaborating with international infl uencers. Pinar Kirlar Kaya Marketing & communications manager, Hilton Doha The Pearl Pinar Kirlar Kaya has 17 years of diverse marketing experience in hospitality. Currently, at Hilton Doha The Pearl, Kaya consistently drives success through campaigns that boost revenue, especially during The 2023 FIFA World Cup. Her planning of the Ramadan Tent attracted daily attendance from 600-800 people, showcasing her comprehensive marketing approach. Her management of social campaigns targeted key markets, enhancing the property’s visibility and revenue streams. Kaya’s proactive networking demonstrates her commitment to driving additional value for the property. Raja Ben Naceur Multi-property director of marketing, The St Regis Doha and The St Regis Marsa Arabia The Pearl Island Doha “Raja’s strategic vision and astute business acumen are inspiring. Her strong knowledge, combined with her passion for the fi eld, has driven her to new heights,” says Sadbir Sharma, hotel manager, at St. Regis Doha. Raja Ben Naceur has over seven years of experience across roles from PR manager to director of PR & marketing, demonstrating her profi ciency in driving marketing success in the hospitality industry. In her current role, Naceur spearheads impactful campaigns and strategic initiatives. Her endeavours signifi cantly increased awareness and revenue for the properties.44 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Power List / Marketing Rebecca Morgan-Ransom Customer success & brand marketing manager, Premier Inn Middle East (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha) Known for her fantastic mentorship, Rebecca Morgan-Ransom has spearheaded a series of highly successful campaigns that have propelled the company to unprecedented heights. Under Morgan-Ransom’s guidance, Premier Inn generated 1.7 million guest nights, marking a 13% surge compared to the previous year. Notably, all 11 hotelsranked in the top 10% of 3-star listings on TripAdvisor. Her hands-on approach and strategic vision were instrumental in the success of major brand initiatives, including Premier Inn’s largest-ever brand activation as an offi cial supporter of Emirates Dubai Sevens. Rozan Shokair Marketing and communications manager, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Rozan Shokair’s unwavering commitment to embodying Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi’s brand values shines through in her multifaceted role as a brand ambassador. Her proactive engagement with media, infl uencers, and celebrities, alongside strategic collaborations with external entities like the city’s tourism board, amplifi es the hotel’s reputation locally and internationally. Her efforts contributed to a significant increase in room revenue and garnered prestigious awards. Recognised as the Marketing Leader of the Year at EMEA Kickstart 2024, her dedication continues to elevate the hotel. Ravneet Arora Director of sales and marketing, Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts Throughout the past year, under Ravneet Arora’s guidance, Lapita achieved a surge in demand across diverse customer segments. Her diversified segmentation strategy led to increased demand from corporate clients, MICE inquiries, and leisure travellers, resulting in a 40 percwent surge in MICE inquiries and a rise in wedding bookings. Additionally, she spearheaded the successful launch of Lapita’s Lu’WOW Weekender concept, captivating UAE residents and international tourists. Arora’s commitment to sustainability initiatives enhanced Lapita’s reputation. Rogelio De Castro Cluster marketing coordinator, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, Wyndham Dubai Deira, Days Hotel by Wyndham, Super 8 by Wyndham Rogelio De Castro’s dynamic approach and digital expertise have driven signifi cant success in the marketing department. His strategic campaigns, guided by the head of marketing, have increased revenue and brand visibility. Key achievements include standardised social media management across multiple properties, doubling ad impressions, and enhancing community engagement. Overall, De Castro has achieved a 1.3% average engagement rate and collaborated with infl uencers to reach millions of users. MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 45 Power List / Marketing Ruth Carpenter Director of F&B marketing & PR, One&Only One Za’abeel Since joining One&Only One Za’abeel in September, Ruth Carpenter has excelled in positioning The Link and the hotel, making it an iconic destination. Her calm demeanour under pressure and collective approach in meetings have been invaluable. Carpenter has curated a world-class team and fostered strong relationships with brand partners like Dabiz Munoz and Anne-Sophie Pic. Leading the property’s opening, she managed pre-opening tasks and successfully launched 12 restaurant brands, including StreetXO. Carpenter’s eff orts contributed to The Link’s Guinness World Record accreditation and notable celebrity visits. She oversees F&B operations, social media, PR activities, event partnerships, and media buying, solidifying the property’s status as Dubai’s premier dining destination. Sama Kainat Cluster marketing & PR manager, Holiday Inn & Staybridge Suites Dubai Business Bay Sama Kaninat’s exceptional skills led to the successful launch of Holiday Inn and Staybridge properties in Business Bay. Her strategic marketing eff orts, including influencer collaborations and media outreach, achieved over 2.9 million in reach and 46 articles reaching 34 million. Proficient in digital marketing, she drove impressive results with 1,700 bookings, 6,900 room nights, and $1 million revenue, attaining an ROI of 9:1. Kainat’s agility in utilising emerging platforms like TikTok and Snapchat ensured innovative marketing approaches. Her contributions were integral to pre-opening success. Sanja Dimitrijevic F&B marketing and communications manager, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and Jumeirah Al Qasr Sanja Dimitrijevic’s passion and dedication shine through in her role overseeing 25-plus outlets across Jumeirah properties. Her eff orts have led to numerous accolades, positioning the restaurants as industry leaders. Dimitrijevic’s adeptness at building relationships, crafting compelling narratives, and innovative marketing strategies make her a standout professional. She spearheaded successful launches for new venues like Blind Tiger and Margaux, contributing to record-breaking revenues in 2023. Dimitrijevic’s initiatives include the Pierchic Long Dinner Table event. Sanja Gluskinic Multi-property director of marketing & PR, The St. Regis Downtown Dubai & Delta Hotels by Marriott, DIP Sanja Gluskinic’s campaigns over the past year have signifi cantly bolstered revenue streams and elevated brand presence for The St. Regis Downtown Dubai & Delta Hotels by Marriott, DIP. Successes include the inaugural New Year’s event and Ramadan campaigns, which garnered unprecedented attention. Her foresight led to the introduction of pivotal roles like the content creator, expanding the hotel’s digital footprint. Gluskinic’s leadership culminated in record revenue generation in 2023, setting a new benchmark. With a versatile career, Gluskinic now commands her position with fi nesse.46 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Power List / Marketing Simran Kapoor Marketing manager, Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay Throughout her tenure, Simran Kapoor’s has exhibited exceptional dedication and creativity, driving impactful marketing campaigns and managing complex projects adeptly. Her strong leadership and collaborative approach have greatly contributed to our team’s success and our hotel’s brand positioning. Starting as a junior editorial assistant at Harper’s Bazaar, she transitioned into hospitality, excelling as a marketing executive at Kempinski and later as assistant manager at The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort. In her current role, she continues to showcase her expertise in marketing and hospitality management, making signifi cant contributions to the organisation’s growth and success. Sarah Khaled Director of marketing, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Sarah Khaled has played a pivotal role in supporting the Marriott portfolio in Oman. She spearheaded three consecutive task force assignments, driving preopening and reopening efforts for Aloft Muscat, W Muscat, and JW Marriott Hotel Muscat while managing Al Bustan Palace. Khaled championed destination marketing initiatives and collaborated on regional brand activations, securing signifi cant media coverage. Her strategies resulted in increased revenue and brand visibility. Sherry White Director of marketing & communications, Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Sherry White’s pivotal role in Waldorf Astoria DIFC’s commercial success is evident through her leadership and strategic prowess. She spearheaded highly successful digital marketing initiatives, achieving remarkable growth on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and TikTok, significantly boosting social media presence and engagement. Her strategic marketing campaigns have increased visibility, resulted in prestigious awards and much more. Sheryl Aquiatan Senior marketing & communications manager, Millennium & Copthorne Airport Hotel Dubai Sheryl Aquiatan’s marketing efforts have signifi cantly contributed to the success of Millennium and Copthorne Airport Hotel Dubai. She has achieved impressive results, including over AED555,000 conversion from social media leads for MICE, successful hotel website management resulting in revenue- generating room offers, and the handling of five social media pages. Aquiatan’s collaborations, added value for guests without cost to the hotel. Shkar Atta Raouf Marketing and communications manager, Slemani Rotana Hotel Shkar Atta Raouf has demonstrated exceptional leadership amidst challenging conditions, spearheading successful campaigns and initiatives that ha ve boost ed awareness and revenue. Notably, he rebuilt the MarCom department and organised three CSR initiatives. He positioned the hotel as a sponsor for a ground-breaking expo and digital strategies like 360 virtual tours and online activities. His dedication and innovation make him an invaluable asset, driving the property’s growth. MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 47 Power List / Marketing Sonia Parmar Marketing manager, Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort Sonia Parmar has led her team to remarkable achievements, setting new standards of excellence and driving unprecedented success. Under her leadership, the marketing team consistently surpassed financial goals, enhancing profitability and guest satisfaction. Through innovative campaigns and strategic marketing, she played a pivotal role in revenue growth and brand recognition. Parmar’s eff orts earned her prestigious awards and accolades, refl ecting her exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence. In her current role, she continues to innovate, leveraging over two decades of experience. Her leadership drives the hotel towards unparalleled success in a dynamic market, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence. Stacey McMurtrie Director of marketing & communications, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Stacey M c M urtrie’s leadership spearheaded a ground-breaking launch campaign, surpassing targets and setting new standards. Her strategic approach included a robust pre-opening phase and innovative t easer campaigns, driving anticipation and community engagement. The grand opening events garnered international press coverage and established the resort in the family-friendly market. Post-launch, McMurtrie’s initiatives propelled revenue growth, with OTAs contributing signifi cantly. Tijana Lazarov Complex director of marketing, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre, Le Meridien Fairway, Aloft Dubai Airport, Aloft Al Mina, Element Dubai Airport, Element Al Mina Tijana Lazarov drives unprecedented success across six hot els, overseeing 1,247 guest rooms and 28 dining venues. Her innovative strategies and strategic partnerships raise brand awareness and market share, achieving remarkable results. With adept budget management, she maximizes ROI, increasing revenue and guest satisfaction. She is recognised as a high- potential leader. Valentina Comin Director of marketing, Middle East Regional properties based at Regional Offi ce Valentina Comin is a seasoned mark et er. Her expertise shines in pre-opening luxury hotels and launching F&B concepts, notably with the successful launch of IntercityHotel Bawshar, Muscat, and The Breakery bakery concept across IntercityHotels in the region. Comin continuously hones her digital marketing skills through courses, displaying a strong focus on social media and cont ent generation. With a network built over years, she leverages her connections for the company’s benefi t. Werner Coetzee Cluster director of marketing & communications, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, and Hilton Dubai The Walk We rner Coetzee has showcased exceptional leadership, driving innovation and revenue growth across three hotels. He oversees the marketing and communication strategies for these hotels, as well as their impressive array of 21 food and drink venues. His initiatives include launching multiple F&B venues, innovative seasonal campaigns and achieving remarkable festive revenue increases. Coetzee’s hands-on approach inspires his team to new heights. 48 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Hyatt has unveiled Grand Hyatt Barcelona, marking the brand’s fi rst urban Grand Hyatt in Spain and its fi fth property in Europe. Positioned in one of the world’s most sought-after cities and with a hospitality portfolio ranking fourth in Spain by room count, Hyatt boasts a diverse presence across eight distinctive brands and 50 properties throughout the country. Situated minutes from iconic landmarks like the Monastery of Pedralbes and Camp Nou, home to FC Barcelona, the hotel features 465 Art Deco-inspired guestrooms, including 49 signa- ture suites and a penthouse. Each room has amenities such as cosmetic products by Natura Bissé. Commenting on the opening, Javier Águila, group president, EAME, Hyatt said: “Grand Hyatt Barcelona celebrates Hyatt’s dedication to unparalleled luxury and exceptional experiences. An iconic and emblematic landmark in Barcelona, the hotel embraces the lavish style of the Grand Hyatt brand, coupled with a captivating experience. As the second Grand Hyatt prop- erty in Spain, today’s opening refl ects our accelerated brand growth in Spain and more broadly in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and showcases our continued commitment to delivering world-class hospitality.” There are four distinct dining destinations, blending locally inspired and internationally infl uenced fl avours. Maymanta, the Peruvian restaurant situated on the 19th-fl oor rooftop from chef Omar Malpartida off ers panoramic views of Barcelona. Meanwhile, Leña, the steakhouse helmed by acclaimed Spanish chef Dani Garcia, promises a fusion of innovation and tradition upon its forthcoming opening. Wellness is taken care of at Oasis Spa by Natura Bissé, a collaboration with the Spanish brand. The spa has a pool, Turkish steam area, sauna, and private cabins for signature treatments. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool with a terrace, sunbeds, and a pool bar and restaurant. The hotel’s meeting facilities span 22 rooms over 35,000 sq ft, off ering state-of-the-art equipment. There is also a 9,300 sq f event space, designed to host conferences and large- scale events. Checking out Grand Hyatt Barcelona Grand Hyatt debuts its fi rst urban property in SpainChecking Out MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 49Next >