Samantha Watson Samantha Watson

What is your background in the travel sector?
I started out working for airlines in the UK, notably Emirates and then Etihad in leisure sales before transferring to Abu Dhabi and Etihad Holidays where I was sales manager. Recently I was with The Dubai Mall as tourism marketing manager. I have been in the industry for over 12 years.

What attracted you to the role at Al Futtaim?
The opportunity to join a dynamic agency which is progressively developing. I was also aware of the great team and was very keen to be a part of it.

What are your main objectives and responsibilities as marketing manager?
Developing and executing the sales and marketing plan for the business concentrating on key business areas: leisure, MICE, corporate and retail. We are expanding our retail locations and developing our online solution as well as developing our strategic partnerships with major global brands such as WIN and Thomas Cook.

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What do you think will be your biggest challenge in the new role?
The industry faces many economic and environmental factors which impact on the business. The challenge is to continually work around these, profitably!

What are you most looking forward to?
Embracing new technologies, social media platforms and bringing them into the business.

What do you love most about working in the travel industry?
The products and the people. The travel industry is a fascinating one and there is never a moment to be bored.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?
There are many moments and many achievements!