Director of Sales & Marketing (Pre-Opening)

The new Autograph Collection resort at Quinta do Mar – Sintra is a luxurious 89-bedroom retreat within the Marriott portfolio, set amongst the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of Sintra on Portugal's dramatic Atlantic coastline. Spanning 14 beautifully restored buildings surrounded by landscaped gardens, the resort combines exceptional wellness experiences, inspiring meeting facilities and distinctive food and beverage concepts within one of Portugal's most captivating natural settings. Surrounded by ancient woodland, dramatic coastline and centuries of history, Quinta do Mar draws inspiration from the timeless wonder, rich heritage and quiet mysticism that have captivated travellers for generations. More than a hotel, it is a place to disconnect from the everyday, reconnect with nature and create unforgettable moments — a place to breathe, reflect, recover and indulge.

Opening is planned for Q1 2027.

This is a rare opportunity to become part of the founding leadership team and shape the commercial strategy, market positioning and brand presence of one of Portugal's most exciting luxury hotel openings.

We are seeking an experienced Director of Sales \& Marketing to join the pre-opening leadership team. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you will be responsible for successfully launching the Autograph Collection, Quinta do Mar, into the market, creating demand, building long-term commercial partnerships and positioning the resort as one of Portugal's leading luxury lifestyle destinations.

Vertiq Hospitality Partners has been appointed by the ownership to manage this unique property. Formerly known as Cycas Hospitality, Vertiq is one of Europe's leading hospitality management companies, operating hotels across multiple international brands with a vision "to be the trusted operating partner in European hospitality investments."

About the Role

As Director of Sales \& Marketing, you will develop and execute the commercial strategy that successfully launches Quinta do Mar into the market. Leading a dedicated commercial team comprising a Sales Manager, Marketing Manager and Sales Executive, you will create demand across leisure, corporate, MICE and events whilst building long-term relationships with key clients, luxury travel partners and global distribution channels.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring equal measures of strategic thinking and personal execution. You will be as comfortable representing the resort at international trade events as you are reviewing campaigns, hosting familiarisation visits, developing key accounts and supporting opening events. Working alongside your team, you will lead by example to build one of Portugal's leading luxury resort brands.

Working closely with Marriott International, ownership and Vertiq Hospitality Partners, you will lead Sales, Marketing, Public Relations and Brand Partnerships, ensuring every commercial decision strengthens the positioning, reputation and long-term profitability of Quinta do Mar.

About You

• Minimum five years’ experience in a senior commercial leadership role within luxury or premium hospitality.
• Previous experience as a Director of Sales \& Marketing or senior commercial leader.
• Hotel pre-opening experience is highly advantageous.
• Previous Marriott experience is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of luxury leisure, corporate, MICE, wholesale and consortia segments.
• Excellent knowledge of revenue management and commercial strategy.
• Proven experience developing business plans, budgets and forecasts.
• Hands-on leader with the ability to coach, inspire and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent presentation, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong understanding of digital marketing, PR and luxury brand positioning.
• Commercially driven, creative and results-oriented.
• Fluent in Portuguese and English.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Performance-based bonus scheme
• Marriott Associate Travel Programme with discounted accommodation worldwide
• Career development opportunities within Vertiq Hospitality Partners
• The opportunity to join the pre-opening leadership team of a luxury Autograph Collection by Marriott resort
• Exclusive employee discounted rates across other Vertiq Hospitality Partners managed properties
• Reward and Recognition Programme
• Free parking

Duties \& Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the resort’s commercial strategy, annual business plan and pre-opening sales, marketing and PR activities.
• Build market awareness and demand across domestic and international markets before and after opening.
• Establish and maintain key relationships with clients, partners, media, tourism organisations and Marriott stakeholders.
• Lead integrated sales, marketing, PR, digital and brand initiatives to maximise revenue and market presence.
• Manage external agencies, website content, promotional materials and brand communications.
• Coordinate launch campaigns, events and promotional activities to support the resort’s positioning.
• Drive sales performance across all market segments, securing strategic partnerships and key accounts.
• Work with Revenue Management and resort leadership to optimise pricing, distribution and market mix.
• Monitor performance, market trends and competitor activity to maximise revenue and commercial effectiveness.
• Protect and strengthen the Quinta do Mar and Autograph Collection brand identity across all channels.
• Measure campaign effectiveness and adjust strategies to improve return on investment and business results.
• Lead, coach and develop the commercial team, fostering a collaborative, accountable and high-performing culture.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Revenue Management and Marriott International.
• Prepare budgets, forecasts and commercial reports for ownership and senior leadership.
• Monitor guest feedback and brand reputation to strengthen market positioning and guest engagement.
• Ensure compliance with Marriott brand standards and Vertiq Hospitality Partners’ strategic objectives.
• Champion innovation, creativity and continuous improvement across all commercial activities.