Ward De Meulder

Experience

• 

  Polaroid

  Jul 1997 - Apr 1999

  Sales Manager Benelux

  Previously employed at Polaroid Europe IBC (International Business Centre) situated in Bath Street, Glasgow, UK, I served as the Sales Manager responsible for the Benelux markets. Operating remotely, I effectively managed sales activities and relationships within this region, driving business growth and fostering strong partnerships.

• 

  Thomas Cook Group

  May 1999 - Apr 2002

  Reservations Manager

  Formerly under the name Airtours UK, operated by Viajes Astral Canarias, now seamlessly integrated into the Thomas Cook Group, I held the position of overseeing the reservations department. My responsibilities included meticulously managing rooming lists, monitoring hotel occupancy, accommodating special guest requests, conducting hotel inspections, and coordinating airport arrival lists to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

• 

  Catlanza SL

  Apr 2002 - Mar 2005

  Reservations Manager

  As the head of the reservations department for a prominent excursions and leisure transport company, I played a pivotal role in maintaining strong relationships with key travel agents and tour operators across the vibrant islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, Spain. In this capacity, I directly interfaced with suppliers, guests, and port authorities to ensure seamless coordination and exceptional service delivery.

• 

  The Ambiance Hotel

  Mar 2005 - Mar 2006

  General Manager

  The Ambiance hotel is centrally located, in a busy lane off the beach of Pattaya. Facilities include spa, coffee shop and nightclub. I was the GM, in charge of strategic planning, business development, guest experience, employees, profit control, maintenance and everyday operational running of the hotel. I reported directly to the owners of the hotel.

• 

  Dreamplace Hotels & Resorts

  Mar 2006 - Nov 2006

  Guest Relations Executive

  Working in the beautiful 5 star, all inclusive Gran Castillo hotel was a unique opportunity to learn about guest satisfaction schemes and loyalty programs, including assessment and reporting to hotel management. I was first point of contact for VIP guests and all guest related queries, working closely with the reservations department, front of house and the EAM.

• 

  Catlanza Coffee Shop & Wine Bar

  Dec 2006 - May 2008

  General Manager

  As a Pre-opening and Operational Manager, I spearheaded the successful launch and ongoing management of a charming bar situated in the heart of the tourist hub of Puerto del Carmen, nestled on the picturesque island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Spain.

• 

  Atlantic Ocean Style

  Sept 2008 - Sept 2010

  Managing Director

  Executive overseeing daily operations of a premier Kayak and Water Sports lifestyle company offering a diverse range of products and services tailored for enthusiasts. Specializing in Kayaking, Rafting, Sailing, Sales, and Rentals, our company serves the vibrant community of water sports enthusiasts in the scenic Canary Islands, Spain. As the executive leader, I am responsible for orchestrating seamless management across all departments to ensure exceptional service delivery and customer satisfaction. Show less

• 

  Hospiten

  Aug 2009 - Sept 2010

  Medical Translator

  Skillfully facilitated simultaneous translation among medical staff, insurance agents, and patients while adeptly managing insurance and payment matters.

• 

  ServiceSource Europe

  Sept 2010 - Sept 2011

  Sales Executive Benelux, South Africa

  Responsible for managing the renewal of maintenance contracts for Juniper Networks across diverse clientele in the South African, Dutch, and Belgian markets.

• 

  Hotel Zing's Ganymede Resort **** (Zing Hotels and Resorts Group)

  Oct 2011 - Jun 2014

  General Manager

  As the Pre-Opening and General Manager of the exquisite Ganymede Zing Resort, a stunning 4-star beachfront destination nestled along the picturesque Jomtien Beach in Thailand, I had the privilege of spearheading its transformation into a haven of luxury and relaxation. Overseeing a team of top-tier professionals, we collaborated to curate unforgettable experiences for our guests, infusing each day with a touch of magic.With meticulous attention to detail, we meticulously crafted an ambiance of sophistication and comfort across our diverse amenities, including a captivating Coffee Bar, rejuvenating Spa, vibrant Poolbar, tranquil Jacuzzi, inviting Terrace, and delectable Restaurant.Our dedication to excellence bore fruit when, following two years of tireless renovations, we were honored with the prestigious TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, a testament to our commitment to exceeding guest expectations and setting new standards of hospitality excellence. Show less

• 

  Contact Center Research & Development, Leadership & Training

  Oct 2014 - Oct 2015

  Business Development Specialist MICE

  Pioneering and nurturing novel business prospects within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, utilizing a blend of innovative direct marketing strategies and cutting-edge new media techniques. Focused clientele encompass Congress and Exhibition Centers as well as Hotels, with a goal of fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and driving sustained growth in revenue and market presence.

• 

  LFC n.v.

  Oct 2015 - Mar 2016

  Online Sales and Marketing Specialist

  Effectively orchestrating the implementation and oversight of online media and e-commerce channels to optimize reach and engagement. Providing invaluable support to sales teams through telesales initiatives and meticulous marketing plan development, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with organizational objectives.

• 

  Best Western® Hotels & Resorts

  Jun 2016 - Aug 2019

  Sales Manager Best Western Spain, Portugal and Ireland

  Managed sales operations for all properties across Spain, Ireland, and Portugal within the Best Western hotel chain.Orchestrated trade shows, conducted training sessions, and facilitated webinars to enhance sales team performance and product knowledge.Developed and implemented innovative sales strategies to maximize market penetration and drive revenue growth.Achievements:Quadrupled key sales accounts within three years, establishing the company as a dominant player in the region's hospitality sector.Achieved a year-on-year increase in revenue of approximately 30%, exceeding annual targets consistently.Spearheaded initiatives that optimized sales processes, resulting in improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. Show less

• 

  BWH Hotel Group®

  Aug 2019 - Mar 2024

  Enhanced revenue and REVPAR across all BWH properties in the Latin American region through strategic leadership of three dynamic teams: Sales, Marketing, and Loyalty Program, based at the BWH Latin America Headquarters. Key achievements include pioneering the establishment of the BWH Latin America Group and MICE initiatives, contributing significantly to the organization's growth trajectory. Additionally, served as a pivotal member of the prestigious global Sales Advisory Committee, SFT (Sales Functional Team), demonstrating expertise and influence on a global scale. Show less

  • Director of Sales and Marketing Latin America

    Aug 2021 - Mar 2024

  • Senior Regional Sales Manager South America

    Aug 2019 - Aug 2021