Donald Santo
@donaldsanto
I grow businesses by connecting sales, operations, people, and customer relationships.
South AfricaWhat I'm looking for
I'm currently developing corporate partnerships, strategic stakeholder relationships, and education investment opportunities at Star Schools. I manage opportunities from initial engagement through proposals, presentations, negotiation, and closing.
Previously, I drove sales, marketing, client relationships, and events for Joy Jozi and Livy's, building new business while coordinating delivery with operational teams and suppliers.
As General Manager of The One 8 Hotel, I ran a 22-room boutique hotel across guests, staff, suppliers, service standards, costs, reservations, and commercial performance. That hands-on role taught me that sustainable growth depends on both winning customers and delivering for them.
I also built my foundation in marketing, communications, events, and stakeholder coordination at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. I bring practical commercial judgement, relationship-driven sales, operational awareness, and a willingness to take responsibility for outcomes.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Business Development Manager
Star Schools
Jan 2024 - Present (2 years 9 months)
Develops relationships and opportunities supporting organizational growth, focusing on corporate partnerships, strategic stakeholders, and education investment. Manages the full business-development cycle from engagement to closing.
Sales Executive
Joy Jozi & Livy's
Jan 2019 - Dec 2024 (5 years 11 months)
Generated new sales and developed business for two hospitality venues, managing client relationships and events. Promoted venues for corporate functions and private events, and coordinated with operational teams to ensure successful delivery.
General Manager
The One 8 Hotel
Jan 2014 - Dec 2019 (5 years 11 months)
Managed the overall operation of a 22-room boutique hotel, including staff supervision, guest services, supplier relationships, and commercial performance. Oversaw day-to-day operations, budgeting, and event coordination.
Marketing & Communications Officer
Cape Town International Convention Centre
Jan 2011 - Dec 2014 (3 years 11 months)
Supported marketing and communications for conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events. Assisted with event planning, logistics, and stakeholder coordination.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
University of South Africa
Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Law
Currently studying Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of South Africa, with studies ongoing and incomplete.
University of South Africa
Higher National Diploma, Communication and Media Studies
2007 - 2010
Completed a Higher National Diploma in Communication and Media Studies from the University of South Africa from 2007 to 2010.
University of South Africa
Higher National Diploma, Business Management and Finance
1999 - 2002
Completed a Higher National Diploma in Business Management and Finance from the University of South Africa from 1999 to 2002.
University of South Africa
Higher National Diploma, Human Resources Management
2003 - 2005
Completed a Higher National Diploma in Human Resources Management from the University of South Africa from 2003 to 2005.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
South AfricaAuthorized to work in
Salary expectations
Social media
Skills
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