Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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OMAR LOTFY

Director Of Events & Groups
Cairo

Summary


Innovative and forward-thinking Director of Events with 17 years of experience leading widely diverse, high-impact events. Passionate public relations and marketing expert with ideal analytical and project management skills for vibrant and fiscally successful events. Recruits and hires top talent, delivers timely problem-solving and mobilizes engaged and loyal corporate teams. Dedicated to customer focus, clear communication and satisfied attendee experiences.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Events & Groups

Orascom Hotels Management
11.2020 - Current
  • Actively seeking and identifying opportunities for business growth within the external market to capture additional market share
  • Monitoring the quality of the product and service.
  • Monitoring budgets and maintaining financial and administrative records.
  • Ensuring health and safety regulations are strictly observed, recorded and archived.
  • Ensuring financial documentation and accountancy of the unit and those from suppliers is accurate and within agreed budgeted levels.
  • Negotiate prices, prepare accurate quotes, and then confirm by written contracts.
  • Build creative menus, mindful of food costs, labor cost and kitchen capabilities.
  • Maintain excellent client relationships and communicate with the day-to-day client at every opportunity – holding at least a weekly review meeting.
  • Ensure that all written communication represents a professional image to customers and colleagues.
  • Maintain standards for business process between events team and operation team to ensure quality of bookings criteria and contracts and functions integrity
  • Coach and counsel employees to reflect the company service standards and procedures
  • Oversee event committee development and management
  • Developing event ROI model and managing event programs budget
  • · providing consistent leadership and communication to the events team to ensure maximum preference and alignment goals
  • · Ensure that all written communication represents a professional image to customers and
  • Developed comprehensive event proposals tailored to specific client needs, demonstrating a deep understanding of their objectives and priorities.
  • Maximized attendee engagement by incorporating interactive elements and cutting-edge technology into event design.
  • Elevated customer satisfaction levels by consistently delivering exceptional service throughout all stages of the event lifecycle.
  • Consistently met and exceeded revenue goals by identifying new business opportunities and expanding the company''s client base.
  • Boosted brand visibility through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic social media presence, driving increased inquiries for event services.
  • Deftly navigated unforeseen challenges or obstacles during live events while maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.
  • Enhanced event experiences by meticulously planning and executing high-profile corporate gatherings.
  • Delivered memorable events that exceeded client expectations, leading to increased repeat business and referrals.
  • Achieved measurable success in meeting clients'' objectives while adhering to strict deadlines and tight budgets.
  • Spearheaded the development of new event concepts, resulting in unique offerings that set the company apart from competitors.
  • Championed a culture of continuous improvement within the team, fostering professional growth and heightened performance standards.
  • Streamlined event logistics by implementing innovative project management strategies to ensure seamless execution.
  • Oversaw event happenings in progress, answered guest questions, acted quickly to resolve problems and trained and support team members and volunteers.
  • Spearheaded community event center's online presence, mobilized public relations and social media initiatives and upgraded event communications potential attendees.
  • Monitored and controlled event expenditures to meet budgets.

Director of Events & Groups

Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo Hotel
05.2017 - 11.2020
  • Prompt response to all forms of wedding and wedding-related inquiries in an effort to capture additional market share.
  • Monitoring the quality of the product and service provided.
  • Helping in setting and monitoring budgets and maintaining financial and administrative records.
  • Ensuring health and safety regulations are strictly observed, recorded and archived.
  • Ensure financial documentation and accountancy of the unit and those from suppliers is accurate and within agreed budgeted levels.
  • Actively seek and identify opportunities for business growth within the contract and external market.
  • Walk the floor during service periods to ensure that excellent levels of service are being delivered to the customers ,
  • Report any faults to management/client, ensure they are rectified and ensure equipment is not used until safe.
  • Ensure the standards across the site(s) are in accordance with the Service Level Agreements and key Performance Indicators specified in the service contract.
  • Initiate a process of continuous improvement by undertaking company promotions and extraordinary merchandising initiatives to ensure the profitable growth of the contract.
  • Attend to and take all necessary actions ,statutory or otherwise, in the event of incidents or accident , fire, theft, loss, damage, unfit food, or other irregularities and take such action as may be appropriate.
  • Maintain excellent client relationships and communicate with the day to day client at every opportunity – holding at least a weekly review meeting.
  • Ensure that all written communication represents a professional image to customers, clients and staff.
  • Actively seek and identify opportunities for business growth both within the contract and the external market,
  • Maximize profitable sales by the introduction and maintenance of food service brands to the standard required by the company.
  • Ensure that all costs and expenditure are within the budgeted levels agreed.
  • Control all costs such as labor, expenses, and cash purchases as agreed with the line manager.
  • Ensure tariff prices are correct, that all catering services are coasted and charged according to the terms of the contract.
  • Hold daily & weekly team briefing meetings.
  • Attend Company Training Courses and District Meetings as requested.
  • Solicit from and confirm with clients, all information pertaining to the wedding they are planning, and organize information for an accurate turnover once definite.
  • Negotiate prices, prepare accurate quotes, and then confirm by written contracts.
  • Conduct site inspections.
  • Assist with the compilation of competitive intelligence information.
  • Solid compilation of all pertinent information leading to clear and concise agendas, group resumes and banquet event orders.
  • Build creative menus, mindful of food costs, labor cost and kitchen capabilities.
  • Create floor plans for the best use of space for each event.
  • Conduct daily meetings to review event contracts to ensure last minute changes are communicated with Banquet, Kitchen, and Stewarding.
  • Prepare weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports as required.
  • Ensure Hotel Conference Services/Catering Standards are adhered to for all event activities
  • Skillfully negotiated contracts with venues and suppliers for favorable terms that benefited both parties involved in the event planning process.
  • Supported organizational growth by recruiting, training, and mentoring top talent in the events industry.
  • Streamlined event logistics by implementing innovative project management strategies to ensure seamless execution.

Assistant Director of Events

Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo Hotel
05.2016 - 05.2017

Senior Events Sales Manager ( Social )

Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo
09.2014 - 05.2016

Food & Beverage Manager

Four Seasons George V Hotel
04.2013 - 04.2014
  • Boosted revenue by developing targeted marketing campaigns for promotions and special events.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures through strategic vendor negotiations and bulk purchasing.
  • Balanced daily cash registers accurately while also managing financial reporting responsibilities, ensuring accurate records and timely deposits.
  • Oversaw special events planning, from menu creation to logistics coordination, providing seamless experiences for guests.
  • Maximized sales opportunities with upselling techniques and well-timed menu suggestions based on customer preferences.
  • Increased guest loyalty through attentive service, personalized recommendations, and consistent follow-up on feedback.
  • Collaborated with chefs to create seasonal menus that met diverse dietary needs and preferences.
  • Streamlined operational processes for improved efficiency and reduced waste.
  • Maintained strict adherence to health and safety regulations, resulting in consistently high inspection scores.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by implementing innovative food and beverage offerings.
  • Optimized table turnover rates by implementing efficient seating arrangements and reservation systems.
  • Raised overall guest experience ratings by closely monitoring service quality metrics to identify areas needing improvement.
  • Established strong relationships with local suppliers for access to fresh ingredients at competitive prices.
  • Enacted progressive disciplinary measures for staff, managed work zones, and oversaw opening and closing duties.
  • Responded to customer complaints, addressing concerns, and distress with amicable interactions.
  • Managed bar and wait staff and directed hiring program.
  • Resolved customer complaints involving food or beverage quality and service.
  • Verified staff compliance with accepted food and drink safety regulations, suggesting remedial training where necessary.
  • Oversaw selection, ordering and inventory controls of wine, beer and alcohol program.

Catering & Conference Sales Manager

Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
06.2011 - 04.2013
  • Optimized territory management plans by analyzing data on customer demographics, preferences, and buying patterns.
  • Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
  • Evaluated competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge, adapting strategies as necessary for sustained success.
  • Organized regular sales meetings to review progress, share best practices, and set achievable targets for continued success.
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
  • Implemented CRM systems for better tracking of leads, improving follow-up processes and communication within the team.
  • Provided ongoing training and mentorship for junior sales staff, fostering professional development and career growth.
  • Collaborated with marketing teams to create targeted promotional campaigns, driving customer engagement and sales growth.
  • Led a successful sales team by providing motivational coaching and performance-based incentives.
  • Streamlined sales processes for improved efficiency, resulting in higher conversion rates.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best pricing and terms for company profitability.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
  • Assisted in recruiting top talent for the sales team, contributing to a high-performing work environment.
  • Facilitated cross-functional communication between sales, marketing, and product development teams to ensure cohesive efforts towards shared goals.
  • Created compelling presentations that highlighted product features/benefits to potential clients while addressing their pain points directly.
  • Overcame objections from potential clients by addressing concerns effectively and offering customized solutions based on their unique needs.
  • Attended industry shows, conventions, and other meetings with primary mission of expanding market opportunities.
  • Conducted team meetings to reinforce goals and objectives and set clear expectations about policies and procedures.
  • Identified, hired and trained highly-qualified staff by teaching best practices, procedures, and sales strategies.
  • Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
  • Established and cultivated solid business relationships with new or existing customers.
  • Coached employees in successful selling methods and encouraged cross-selling to drive revenue.
  • Grew sales and boosted profits, applying proactive management strategies and enhancing sales training.
  • Met with clients, delivering presentations, and educating on product and service features and offerings.
  • Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
  • Closed lucrative sales deals using strong negotiation and persuasion skills.
  • Maintained ethical and positive working environment to reduce turnover and promote high retention rates.

Events Management Specialist

Fairmont Monte Carlo
02.2011 - 02.2013
  • Launched successful marketing campaigns that drove brand awareness among target audiences.
  • Optimized supply chain management, resulting in reduced delivery times and increased inventory accuracy.
  • Implemented new training programs for staff, leading to higher employee retention rates and better overall performance.
  • Transformed underperforming departments with strategic planning efforts focused on process improvement.
  • Improved customer satisfaction rates through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
  • Managed budgets effectively, consistently staying within financial constraints while maximizing resource allocation for optimal results.
  • Collaborated with internal departments to align marketing campaigns.
  • Maintained current understanding of market conditions, compliance standards and best practices.
  • Coordinated and executed marketing campaigns to generate new leads and sales opportunities.
  • Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
  • Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.

Assistant Catering & Conference Sales Manager

Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
04.2010 - 06.2011

Catering & Conference Sales Coordinator

Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
04.2009 - 04.2010

Guest Relations Supervisor

Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
05.2008 - 04.2009
  • Streamlined check-in and check-out processes for improved efficiency and reduced waiting times for guests.
  • Supported sales efforts by proactively reaching out to potential clients during targeted marketing campaigns or events held at the property.
  • Coordinated with housekeeping staff for timely room turnovers, minimizing delays for incoming guests.
  • Collaborated with hotel departments to ensure seamless communication and coordination, resulting in better guest experiences.
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by efficiently resolving issues and addressing complaints in a timely manner.
  • Updated standard operating procedures to reflect best practices, ensuring consistent service delivery across the team.
  • Managed room upgrades strategically, maximizing revenue while delighting deserving guests with unexpected perks.
  • Coached new hires on company policies and procedures, setting them up for success in their roles as Guest Relations Agents or Supervisors alike.
  • Assisted in the development of training programs aimed at improving guest relations skills among hotel employees.
  • Organized special events for VIP guests, ensuring memorable stays that encouraged repeat business.
  • Implemented strategies for maintaining high levels of customer service during peak seasons without compromising quality.
  • Elevated overall guest experience through proactive problem-solving measures designed to prevent recurring issues from arising in the future.
  • Developed strong relationships with repeat guests, fostering loyalty to the hotel brand.
  • Championed a positive work culture within the guest relations team, fostering an environment that prioritized employee satisfaction and performance.
  • Contributed to an increase in positive online reviews by consistently delivering exceptional customer service experiences.
  • Monitored guest feedback closely, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement within the department.
  • Partnered with local businesses to create customized itineraries that showcased area attractions while driving ancillary revenue streams such as restaurant bookings or spa appointments.
  • Served as a liaison between management and frontline staff, facilitating open communication channels that promoted teamwork and collaboration throughout the hotel operation.
  • Led a team of guest relations staff, providing guidance and support to enhance their performance and professional growth.
  • Participated in regular meetings with upper management, presenting updates on departmental progress and strategies for continued success.
  • Streamlined check-in process to decrease wait times and increase customer satisfaction.
  • Investigated guest challenges and sources of dissatisfaction to offer timely resolution.
  • Responded to incoming guests, telephone calls, and email inquiries with efficiency and professionalism.
  • Recommended hotel services or amenities that guest may find useful.
  • Maintained consistent positive customer feedback.
  • Answered guest inquiries and provided information regarding hotel services and amenities.
  • Provided guest assistance and recommendations for tourist attractions.
  • Resolved sources of dissatisfaction and implemented processes to prohibit future service obstacles.
  • Assisted guests with check-ins, account inquiries, and any additional services needed.
  • Handled guest complaints and offered complimentary services to maintain high guest satisfaction rates.

Assistant Marketing Manager

Fashion & Art Magazine
01.2007 - 05.2008
  • Streamlined marketing processes, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings across the department.
  • Spearheaded innovative marketing initiatives that led to increased market share and brand recognition.
  • Increased brand awareness by developing and implementing strategic marketing campaigns.
  • Implemented data-driven strategies for continuous improvement in campaign performance and conversion rates.
  • Conducted thorough market research to identify target audience segments, tailor messaging, and optimize campaigns accordingly.
  • Utilized A/B testing methodologies when evaluating new design concepts or messaging techniques within email campaigns leading up-to-date best practices being employed consistently throughout ongoing communications projects.
  • Established strong relationships with key industry influencers, securing valuable partnerships for co-marketing opportunities.
  • Coordinated successful trade shows, conferences, and events that showcased the company''s products and services to potential clients.
  • Managed budget allocation, optimizing resources for maximum return on investment.
  • Mentored junior team members by providing guidance on best practices in marketing strategy development, project management techniques, and analytical tools utilization while fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Measured campaign success using analytics tools such as Google Analytics or Adobe Omniture Suite; utilized insights gained from this data analysis process to make data-driven recommendations on future marketing efforts.
  • Provided support to the sales team by creating engaging sales collateral and presentations that effectively communicated product benefits.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to execute successful product launches and promotions.
  • Enhanced customer engagement with targeted social media efforts and email marketing strategies.
  • Developed captivating landing pages designed specifically for tracking purposes while also driving higher conversion rates among prospective customers online.

French Tour Guide

Freelancer
08.2004 - 05.2008
  • Ensured timely departures and arrivals by strictly adhering to schedules while remaining flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or special requests from guests.
  • Stayed current on area history, culture, events, attractions by attending workshops, lectures, conferences regularly updating tour information accordingly.
  • Streamlined booking processes by implementing an online reservation system, resulting in reduced wait times for customers and increased efficiency for staff members.
  • Consistently received high ratings on customer feedback surveys, reflecting dedication to providing enjoyable and informative experiences.
  • Provided excellent customer service during pre-tour interactions such as answering questions via email or phone calls.
  • Improved group safety by vigilantly monitoring tour participants and implementing strict adherence to safety guidelines.
  • Supported marketing efforts by creating content for social media platforms, showcasing unique aspects of the tours offered.
  • Strengthened relationships with local businesses by collaborating on promotional events and crosspromotions.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through attentive listening and personalized tour adjustments based on group interests.
  • Facilitated memorable experiences for diverse groups by tailoring presentations to cater to different age groups, cultural backgrounds, and language abilities.
  • Increased accessibility by incorporating an audio guide option in multiple languages, catering to a broader audience of international visitors.
  • Received numerous positive reviews from clients, reflecting strong communication skills and in-depth knowledge of tour subjects.
  • Maintained accurate records of daily tour attendance, expenses, and revenues for accurate reporting to management team members.
  • Answered questions, pointed out important features and offered further details about special exhibits to educate visitors.

Management Training

Club Med Resorts
06.2005 - 06.2006
  • Managed department personnel, performance management, training, and workflow planning.
  • Integrated and delivered management training programs to leadership team.
  • Facilitated emergency management training for staff and conducted emergency drills.
  • Minimized process lags through operations protocols and client account management training.
  • Assessed potential candidates for suitability for different programs such as management training and leadership development initiatives.
  • Developed training reports and summaries for management and internal audits.
  • Evaluated success of training programs and recommended improvements to upper management to enhance effectiveness.

Events Organizer

Promotors Events Agency
07.2002 - 07.2005

Education

Master of Business Administration - Hotels Business Management

Cornell University
New York, United States
04.2001 -

Bachelor of Arts - Tourism & Guidance French Department

Faculty of Arts, Ain Shams University
Cairo, Egypt
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Lycee La Liberte Heliopolis French Language Shcool
Cairo, Egypt
04.2001 -

Skills

  • Off-Premise Catering experiences

    • undefined

    Timeline

    Director of Events & Groups

    Orascom Hotels Management
    11.2020 - Current

    Director of Events & Groups

    Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo Hotel
    05.2017 - 11.2020

    Assistant Director of Events

    Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo Hotel
    05.2016 - 05.2017

    Senior Events Sales Manager ( Social )

    Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo
    09.2014 - 05.2016

    Food & Beverage Manager

    Four Seasons George V Hotel
    04.2013 - 04.2014

    Catering & Conference Sales Manager

    Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
    06.2011 - 04.2013

    Events Management Specialist

    Fairmont Monte Carlo
    02.2011 - 02.2013

    Assistant Catering & Conference Sales Manager

    Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
    04.2010 - 06.2011

    Catering & Conference Sales Coordinator

    Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
    04.2009 - 04.2010

    Guest Relations Supervisor

    Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers
    05.2008 - 04.2009

    Assistant Marketing Manager

    Fashion & Art Magazine
    01.2007 - 05.2008

    Management Training

    Club Med Resorts
    06.2005 - 06.2006

    French Tour Guide

    Freelancer
    08.2004 - 05.2008

    Events Organizer

    Promotors Events Agency
    07.2002 - 07.2005

    Master of Business Administration - Hotels Business Management

    Cornell University
    04.2001 -

    Bachelor of Arts - Tourism & Guidance French Department

    Faculty of Arts, Ain Shams University
    04.2001 -

    High School Diploma -

    Lycee La Liberte Heliopolis French Language Shcool
    04.2001 -

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    OMAR LOTFYDirector Of Events & Groups