Discover the dynamic world of Aimbridge EMEA through the eyes of Business Development Manager, Jade Jones. With eight years at Aimbridge… Jade navigates the bustling realm of hospitality, driving revenue growth across Mercure properties and the wider Aimbridge network. We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Jade to delve into her day in the life and learn more about her role. Join us as we uncover the insights and experiences that shape her approach to business development. Discover what fuels her passion for the industry.
How long have you worked at the venues/hotels?
I have worked at Aimbridge EMEA for eight years, two of which are as a Business Development Manager.
What does your job involve?
My role involves driving revenue across our Mercure portfolio and wider Aimbridge network from various verticals including corporate travel, MICE and group travel. I support agents and clients in finding suitable hotels and proactively seek new opportunities from across my network to increase Aimbridge’s market share and deliver results for my hotels.
My job is very varied, one day I can be showcasing our fantastic event spaces to a prospective client, the next day I may be involved in a hotel strategy meeting then researching new business vertical or delivering internal training. I love it!
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
The most challenging part of my job is how quickly priorities can change, depending on hotel needs and being able to implement effective plans to deliver. Conversion of M&E has also been a new challenge in 2024, but this is an industry-wide challenge!
What’s been the best advice given to you?
Commit to reflection time! Sometimes find myself thinking “What have I achieved!?”. I have an excellent mentor at Aimbridge who introduced me to the world of journaling. I find it really useful to look back on the week or month to reflect on what has gone well, what could have gone better and what I can do next for myself and my clients. Another great piece of advice I live by is to be myself, be kind and caring, genuine and show my personality!
What’s the best part of your job? And least favourite?
The best part of my job is the people! I love finding solutions for clients, meeting new people and building long-lasting relationships. I get a real buzz from converting an enquiry and seeing results for both the customer and the hotel. Also, I love the training element of my role, supporting our sales leaders to be the best version of themselves – I find that very rewarding. The least favourite part of my job… Month-end reporting!
What’s your favourite dish on the menu at the moment?
If a Mercure Manchester Margarita doesn’t count as a dish, then it must be Beetroot and Goats Cheese Tortellini served with confit tomato and pesto cream sauce… The first time I visited Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall, I enjoyed this alfresco overlooking the lake at sunset. Delicious!
What can a 24-hr delegate do in their downtime?
Our city centre hotels have plenty to keep delegates entertained with connections to local attractions,
and many others also have onsite health club facilities. For example, Mercure Maidstone Great Danes has an incredible Feed Good Health Club – it has a newly equipped gym, cardio suite, weights room, spin and class studio as well as pool, sauna and steam room, and beauty rooms.
What do you do in your downtime?
Running, it’s my meditation time! Also, I have two children and two poodles and love to get outdoors with them wherever possible. I really enjoy travelling too, having just returned from a family holiday to Barbados. I was lucky enough to join the Aimbridge US VIP Incentive Trip to the Bahamas in April too, after winning Sales Leader of the Year at the Aimbridge Commercial Forum – I love to see the world! I’m also a keen plant parent and have a collection of lovely indoor plants that seem to keep growing!
Why should an event organiser pick your venues?
Aimbridge EMEA truly understands how to make any event a success. We have dedicated M&E Hubs within our Mercure portfolio that are filled with experts on every type of meeting and event. I love that Aimbridge manages such a diverse portfolio. From city centre hotels to country retreats as well as large event spaces. Our teams receive excellent feedback as well as numerous industry accolades – event organisers can
rest assured that their event is in the hands of experts from start to finish.
To host your next meeting or corporate event at a venue under the Aimbridge portfolio… Contact Findmeaconference or click here to learn more.