Helen Bolton
@helenbolton
Passionate Director of Sales in luxury hospitality and travel.
What I'm looking for
I am an energetic and results-focused professional with extensive experience in the luxury travel industry. My career has been dedicated to driving sales and developing new markets, particularly in the hospitality sector. I thrive in dynamic environments, leveraging my strong communication skills to build relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders across diverse cultures.
Throughout my career, I have successfully managed sales strategies for prestigious resorts, including Waldorf Astoria and Fairmont, where I have consistently exceeded revenue targets. My expertise lies in account management, strategic planning, and market development, which has enabled me to create and implement effective sales initiatives that drive occupancy and enhance brand visibility.
With a proven track record in negotiating contracts and managing high-profile partnerships, I am passionate about promoting unique travel experiences and maximizing revenue opportunities. I am now seeking to leverage my skills and network to contribute to a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and excellence in hospitality.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Director of Sales – UK & Europe
Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi
Dec 2024 - Present (11 months)
Managed full account responsibilities for the UK & European markets, including wholesale B2B, B2C, and Consortia. Developed new accounts, including MICE/leisure incentive and destination wedding companies, while promoting the Private Island.
Director of Sales & Marketing
Mirihi Island Resort
Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 10 months)
Developed and executed overall sales and marketing strategies, including budget planning and market development. Managed global Tour Operator relationships, participated in luxury travel fairs, and implemented tactical offers to drive sales.
Regional Director of Sales
Crown and Champa Resorts Maldives
Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 10 months)
Managed cluster sales activities across Asia/Pacific, USA, South America, and GCC regions for 10 resorts. Developed new markets, strengthened tour operator relationships, and proactively sought MICE and destination wedding business.
Director of Sales & Marketing
Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi
Aug 2019 - Present (6 years 3 months)
Managed the Sales and Marketing team, overseeing key account management for worldwide markets. Developed market-specific strategies to drive sales, increase ADR, and arrange FAM trips.
Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing
Resplendent Ceylon Pvt Ltd
Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 10 months)
Managed sales and marketing for three 5-star luxury resorts, with overall responsibility for worldwide sales and new market development. Built relationships with luxury agents and wholesalers, and participated in international travel fairs.
Director of Sales & Marketing
Kanuhura Maldives
Jan 2017 - Present (8 years 10 months)
Managed the Sales and Marketing team, including revenue and reservations departments, with key account and market management of worldwide markets. Liaised with regional sales offices and participated in international travel fairs.
Director of Sales
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Jul 2013 - Present (12 years 4 months)
Managed day-to-day sales operations and a sales team, overseeing key account and market management for Asia/Pac and Americas. Developed new source markets, securing significant pre-paid room blocks from China, and managed incentive groups and destination weddings.
Director of Sales
NIYAMA Maldives by Per AQUUM
Jan 2013 - Present (12 years 10 months)
Managed daily operations of the Sales and Marketing department, including contracting and account management of worldwide tour operators. Strategized and planned key initiatives to drive ADR and occupancy, and prepared sales reports.
Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing
Sonaisali Island and Tadrai Resort, Fiji
Oct 2012 - Present (13 years 1 month)
Implemented rate and promotional strategies to maintain strong ADR and increase product awareness and occupancy. Developed new source markets, focusing on China, Japan, Korea, and India, and managed the sales team.
Director of Sales – Conrad Maldives
Hilton Worldwide Resorts, Maldives
Sep 2011 - Present (14 years 2 months)
Handled all sales activities for three resorts, focusing on worldwide contracting and relationship building with key partners. Developed new source markets, significantly increasing Chinese business, and managed on-site sales teams.
Director of Sales
Diva Maldives (now Lux Maldives)
Jan 2009 - Present (16 years 10 months)
Communicated and liaised with local and international Tour Operators, conducting site inspections and issuing rates and contracts. Attended international travel fairs and managed marketing, PR, and group proposals.
Conference Sales Manager
Heritage Hotel
Mar 2008 - Present (17 years 8 months)
Compiled and negotiated conference and incentive quotes for domestic and international clients. Hosted PCOs and corporate clients, attended industry shows, and managed the Conference & Incentive Sales department.
Sr. Sales Manager
Anantara Resort, Bodu Huraa & Naladhu Maldives
May 2006 - Present (19 years 6 months)
Part of the pre-opening and opening team, with sole responsibility for in-resort Sales & Marketing tasks. Liaised with tour operators, managed events, and promoted the resort through media and wedding packages.
Front Office/Guest Relations Manager
Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort
Nov 2005 - Present (20 years)
Part of the pre-opening team, managing guest relations staff and compiling resort collateral. Conducted site inspections, coordinated transfers, and participated in senior management meetings for sales and operational strategy.
TEFL Teacher
Pholwitaya Bilingual Primary School
Apr 2005 - Present (20 years 7 months)
Taught English as a Foreign Language to primary level students. Developed and delivered engaging lessons to foster language acquisition.
Destination Representative
Kuoni Travel Ltd
Represented the destination, providing support and services to travelers. Liaised with local partners and ensured a positive customer experience.
Destination Representative
Hayes & Jarvis Ltd
Served as a Destination Representative, assisting clients and managing on-site operations. Ensured smooth travel experiences and resolved any issues.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Harrogate College of Arts and Technology
BTEC National Diploma, Travel & Tourism
Completed a BTEC National Diploma in Travel & Tourism, gaining foundational knowledge in the industry. Additionally, obtained an NVQ (Level 2) in Business Administration, enhancing skills in office management and administrative tasks.
Ashville College
GCSE, General Studies
Grade: A-D
Achieved 7 GCSEs with grades A-D, including core subjects such as English, French, and Mathematics. This provided a strong academic foundation for further education and career development.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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