Senior Director – Brands & Commercial Operations, APEC & Greater China

In a nutshell

We’re looking for an experienced and visionary Senior Director – Brands & Commercial Operations, APEC & Greater China – to drive the regional growth and commercial success of Design Hotels. This role is about shaping the long-term brand positioning, accelerating portfolio expansion, and unlocking new revenue streams – while strengthening our voice in one of the world’s most dynamic hospitality regions.

Objective

The Senior Director will lead the Brands & Commercial Operations agenda across APEC & Greater China, ensuring sustainable revenue growth and alignment with global strategic priorities. Acting as a trusted partner to Marriott Development and a key representative of Design Hotels™, the role will build strong industry networks, inspire a cross-functional team, and secure Design Hotels’ position as a leading voice in hospitality.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and execute the regional brand and commercial strategy
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to expand the member hotel portfolio
• Establish and manage strategic partnerships across the region
• Create and manage regional revenue and cost budgets
• Drive innovative campaigns and brand activations with member hotels
• Align the APEC & GC agenda with global priorities and event calendars

Team Leadership

• Lead a cross-functional team across portfolio development, brand, sales, and support
• Inspire, coach, and develop future leaders within the region
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing, and brand-aligned team culture

Key Focus Areas

• Grow the hotel portfolio with brand-aligned, high-quality properties
• Lead regional sales operations and deliver excellence across all segments
• Represent Design Hotels™ at trade events, sales missions, and industry forums
• Strengthen relationships with existing member hotels and identify new opportunities
• Oversee execution of brand activations and regional PR initiatives

Revenue Generation & Cost Management

• Define strategies to grow incremental and commission-based revenue
• Optimize distribution strategies and channel mix to maximize bookings
• Deepen relationships with travel trade and corporate partners
• Manage budgets with disciplined financial oversight and cost efficiency

Collaboration & Innovation

• Partner with global teams, member hotels, and external stakeholders on strategic initiatives
• Co-create innovative solutions to enhance hotel and customer experiences
• Ensure the region is fully integrated into the global Design Hotels community

Experience & Mindset

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality, or related field
• 10+ years of leadership experience in commercial operations, brand strategy, or hospitality
• Proven track record in portfolio development, stakeholder engagement, and revenue growth
• Strong knowledge of APEC and Greater China markets
• Exceptional leadership, networking, and influencing skills
• Fluent in English; proficiency in Mandarin or another regional language is a plus

Preferred

• Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent)
• Experience in multinational hospitality organizations
• Strong network within travel, lifestyle, and hospitality
• Expertise in budget management, cost optimization, and financial forecasting

Skills

• Strategic and analytical mindset
• High-level negotiation and influencing skills
• Strong communication and presentation abilities
• Proven ability to inspire, lead, and develop diverse teams
• Entrepreneurial mindset and commercial acumen

Perks & Benefits

• A pivotal role in shaping Design Hotels™ growth in APEC & Greater China
• Opportunity to work at the intersection of luxury hospitality, design, and culture
• Global exposure within the Marriott International portfolio
• Hybrid and flexible working options
• Travel and networking opportunities across APEC & Greater China
• Exclusive benefits at Design Hotels™ member properties and Marriott Explore rates
• Career development opportunities in a global, design-driven organization

About Design Hotels™

Design Hotels GmbH (www.designhotels.com) is a full-service hospitality consultancy, offering customized services to its member hotels. Under the brand Design Hotels™ the company represents and markets a curated selection of currently more than 300 luxury hotels in over 60 countries. These member hotels are independently owned but united by a commitment to individuality, progressive design, and cultural authenticity. Design Hotels™ embodies the most advanced ideas in the hospitality industry and offers discerning travelers new opportunities and inspiration for both a more conscious travel and lifestyle. 

The company has its headquarters in Berlin and branches in Los Angeles, New York, London and Singapore. Since March 2021, Design Hotels GmbH is part of the Marriott International portfolio. 

Design Hotels is an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate diversity and practice inclusivity. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and our business needs only.

Please send your application without a photo.

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates.  We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law. 

Marriott International is the world’s largest hotel company, with more brands, more hotels and more opportunities for associates to grow and succeed. Be where you can do your best work,​ begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global​ team, and become the best version of you.