As part of our mission to establish Qiddiya as a premier entertainment destination, we are seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director - Trade and Distribution - Leisure. This position leads the development and implementation of the DMMO B2B trade engagement and distribution strategy. Key roles and responsibilities include:
Key Responsibilities
- Develop a Trade Engagement and Distribution Strategy aligned with business goals and Saudi Vision 2030, in line with Qiddiya City's evolving development
- Create an annual leisure trade business plan as part of the broader DMMO Business and Marketing Plan
- Build, develop, and maintain relationships with KSA and international leisure travel trade partners including tour operators, travel agencies, OTAs, and DMCs
- Develop partnerships with additional distribution stakeholders such as airlines, including partnership plans, contract negotiations, and joint marketing initiatives
- Ensure effective promotion of the destination through all trade distribution channels
- Plan and coordinate DMMO participation in key trade shows and industry events, attending all as required
- Develop and implement a FAM trip program to host and engage identified travel trade partners
- Promote destination offerings-including attractions, accommodations, and experiences-as they go live
- Manage international office representation teams and support appointments in new markets as needed
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders; media and PR relations managed by VP of Branding and Marketing
- Collaborate with the Strategy department and in-market teams to conduct annual trade audits and benchmark destination sentiment and trade insights
- Conduct market research to track travel trade trends and competitor activities, informing trade marketing strategies and identifying growth opportunities
- Build strong relationships with travel trade associations and industry partners to collaborate on joint initiatives and share best practices
- Leverage strategic partnerships to expand distribution channels and increase both visitor arrivals and spending
- Work with trade partners and internal teams to ensure Qiddiya City is included in trade partner programs
- Collaborate on product development initiatives to create marketable travel packages aligned with brand and audience targets
- Identify opportunities for new product offerings and work with stakeholders to design distinctive, experience-driven options
- Develop and apply performance metrics to evaluate trade marketing effectiveness, including bookings, revenue, and market share
- Monitor and analyze KPIs to assess the success of campaigns and partnerships
- Play a key role in building and leading the travel trade and distribution team over time
- Provide leadership, set clear objectives, offer feedback, and support professional growth within the team
- Undertake executive duties as part of the DMMO leadership team, including reporting, updates, and additional assignments from the Head of DMMO
- Remain flexible to evolving responsibilities as the needs of DMMO and Qiddiya City develop
- 15+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Strong understanding of both MICE and leisure travel segments
- Proven background in the travel market and tourism industry
Offering a comprehensive compensation and benefits package.
