Macdonald Hotels and Resorts have made three key appointments to help reshape their sales strategy in Aberdeen and surrounding areas.
With a strong emphasis on developing personal relationships and doing face-to-face business, the chain has recruited three first class executives.
Stephen Williams, formerly Resort General Manager of the Macdonald Aviemore Resort, who helped launch the new Village Hotel in Edinburgh, takes up position as Regional Managing Director. For Debbie Mair, the move comes after three and a half years as Business Development Manager at Rockliffe Hall, the five red star Golf and Spa hotel in County Durham and 16 years industry experience. Ms Mair takes up the role of Regional Sales Manager also responsible for Macdonald Pittodrie House. She will work alongside Conference & Events Office Sales Manager Aleksandra Kapatsenji, a former account manager at Russian Events Management Company BVPIP Group.
Speaking of the joint appointments Mr. Williams, who has responsibility for Macdonald Norwood Hall Hotel, Macdonald Drumossie Hotel and Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel, says: “This team’s focus will be to really get to know our customer base. Sales should be a visible activity, with a strong emphasis on personal service. The Macdonald brand started here in Aberdeen and we will be tapping into that legacy for a future growth based on the family values and outstanding quality of service that Macdonald Hotels are known for”.
Debbie Mair, also a former GM of the Caledonian Thistle Hotel in Aberdeen, adds: “I am delighted to be back in the city working for an independent UK brand with such a diverse portfolio. My immediate priority is to re-affirm customer relationships and nurture existing business but also look at different market segments. The dynamics of the Aberdeen market are very different to when I left four and a half years ago but despite the turbulence I firmly believe there is still business to be won but that you have to knock on doors.”