Desirey Virgin Desirey Virgin

Global Account Executive - Sonder Hotels, Marriott Collection

Sonder Inc., Remote

I've had the privilege of shaping the narrative of hospitality excellence with Sonder Hotels, a trailblazer in the hospitality industry redefining the concept of accommodation worldwide.

At Sonder, we're not just about providing a place to stay; we're dedicated to curating immersive experiences that resonate with every guest. With a portfolio spanning across vibrant cities globally, Sonder seamlessly blends the comforts of home with the allure of luxury, offering travelers a unique and unforgettable stay.

Navigating the landscape of group sales within the hospitality sector presents its own set of challenges, particularly in the quest to establish brand awareness and uncover new markets. Yet, with innovation at the core of our ethos, I've spearheaded initiatives to penetrate untapped segments, leveraging strategic partnerships with third-party planners such as Helmsbriscoe, AMEXGBT, and more.

From hosting engaging webinars to actively participating in global conferences, I've cultivated relationships and fostered connections that have propelled Sonder into new territories, expanding our reach and influence within the group sales sector.

Negotiating multi-year and multi-property contracts requires finesse and strategic acumen, skills that I've honed over years of experience in the field. By understanding the unique needs of our clients and aligning them with Sonder's unparalleled offerings, I've secured partnerships that have not only bolstered revenue but also solidified our position as a leader in the industry.

In essence, my role at Sonder Hotels is not just about driving sales; it's about forging meaningful connections, fostering growth, and elevating the guest experience to new heights. Join me on this journey as we continue to redefine hospitality excellence, one guest at a time

Read More
Recipes Desirey Virgin Recipes Desirey Virgin

Tradeshow and Event Manager - AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association)

AAHOA (Hybrid Atlanta, GA)

I planned over 40 events nationally. These events provided advocacy, education, and served as a forum for hotel owners to learn and access resources, contributing to their development as the country's best group of hotel owners.

My role involves handling various responsibilities, from managing event logistics and securing brand partnerships to handling registration, venue selection, and sourcing supplies. I also manage speaker and staff coordination, craft engaging agendas, and organize educational panel discussions.

One of my proudest achievements was organizing the inaugural Herownership conference, which brought together over 400 attendees.

As Event and Marketing Manager, I handled a wide range of responsibilities, from managing event logistics and securing brand partnerships to handling registration, venue selection, and sourcing supplies. I also took charge of setting up the venue, managing speakers and staff, crafting engaging agendas, and organizing educational panel discussions.

The Herownership Conference was a groundbreaking event in the hotelier industry, setting the stage for many others to follow. I'm excited to bring my expertise and innovative approach to your next event, ensuring a seamless and impactful experience for all involved.

Read More
Recipes Desirey Virgin Recipes Desirey Virgin

Director of Sales and Events at Generator Hostels, Miami (2018-2019)

Generator Hostels Open their first US location on Miami Beach

Embarking on Generator Hostels' inaugural venture in the United States as the Director of Sales and Events in Miami, Florida, marked a thrilling chapter in my career. Having established itself as a hospitality icon across Europe, Generator Hostels brought its unique blend of style, comfort, and community to the vibrant landscape of Miami.

My role was multifaceted, encompassing everything from crafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to orchestrating the grand opening event that set the tone for Generator's US presence. This journey involved not just selling rooms but curating experiences that resonated with our diverse clientele.

At the heart of my responsibilities was creating a seamless guest experience. This entailed developing SOPs that ensured every aspect of the guest journey, from booking to check-out, was streamlined and memorable. Attention to detail and a deep understanding of our brand's ethos were paramount in shaping these operational frameworks.

The opening of Generator Hostels in Miami was a landmark event, and I had the privilege of spearheading its success. From coordinating logistics and marketing strategies to liaising with local partners and stakeholders, every step was about creating a buzz and establishing Generator as a must-visit destination.

Beyond standard operations, my role extended to hosting a spectrum of events that elevated the guest experience. From lively pool parties to exclusive private events and collaborations with renowned festivals, we curated experiences that captured the essence of Miami's dynamic culture.

Negotiating contracts with vendors was a critical aspect of my role, ensuring that each partnership aligned with Generator's standards of excellence and contributed to enhancing our offerings. These collaborations enriched our events, providing guests with unparalleled experiences that left a lasting impression.

Being at the helm of Generator Hostels' entry into the US market was not just professionally fulfilling but personally rewarding. It was about creating a home away from home for travelers and locals alike, fostering connections, and leaving an indelible mark on Miami's hospitality landscape.

As Generator Hostels continues to thrive and expand its footprint, I am proud to have played a pivotal role in shaping its success story in the vibrant city of Miami.

Read More
Recipes Desirey Virgin Recipes Desirey Virgin

Director of Catering and Events, Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour (2016 - 2018)

Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour (Contract - On-Site 2017-2019)

Building and nurturing relationships with vendors are crucial for sourcing the finest materials and services. Through effective vendor relations and procurement practices, I guarantee access to the highest quality resources, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Staff training is a continuous process aimed at refining skills and instilling a culture of excellence among our team members. By providing ongoing education and mentorship, I empower our staff to deliver service that exceeds expectations at every turn.

Special event curation is where creativity truly flourishes. From conceptualization to execution, I work closely with clients to bring their visions to life, orchestrating every detail with precision and finesse.

Luxury private dining is a cornerstone of our offerings, and I take pride in crafting bespoke dining experiences that indulge the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Marketing plays a pivotal role in driving revenue and maintaining our competitive edge. Through strategic initiatives and targeted campaigns, I've successfully increased revenue by an impressive 13%, cementing our position as a leader in the luxury hospitality industry.

In essence, my role at The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour goes beyond mere event coordination; it's about creating magical moments, exceeding expectations, and setting the standard for unparalleled luxury and service excellence.

As the Director of Catering and Events at The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour in South Florida, I've had the honor of spearheading a multifaceted role that encompasses a spectrum of responsibilities, each meticulously executed to elevate our guests' experiences to unparalleled heights.

One of my primary duties revolves around the meticulous selection and nurturing of talent. From hiring top-tier professionals to training and cultivating their skills, I ensure that our team embodies the spirit of excellence that defines The Ritz-Carlton brand.

Crafting and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is essential to maintaining the highest standards of service and efficiency. By meticulously documenting and refining our processes, we guarantee consistency in every event we host.

The creation and negotiation of contracts are pivotal aspects of my role, ensuring clarity and alignment with both client expectations and the hotel's standards. Each contract is meticulously crafted to safeguard our clients' interests while upholding the reputation and integrity of The Ritz-Carlton brand.

Strategic event planning is at the heart of what I do. By devising innovative event strategies tailored to the unique needs and preferences of our clientele, I ensure that every occasion is not just an event but an unforgettable experience.

Read More
Restaurants Desirey Virgin Restaurants Desirey Virgin

Food & Beverage Executive, Thompson Hotel Miami

Joining the opening team of Thompson Hotel on Miami Beach as the Assistant Director of Food and Beverage was an immersive experience that allowed me to blend my passion for hospitality with a commitment to culinary excellence. From orchestrating the grand opening party, NYE Party with headliners PitBull and Neyo to overseeing multiple outlets and managing vendor agreements, every aspect of my role was geared towards creating unforgettable dining experiences.

Joining the opening team of Thompson Hotel on Miami Beach as the Assistant Director of Food and Beverage was an immersive experience that allowed me to blend my passion for hospitality with a commitment to culinary excellence. From orchestrating the grand opening party, NYE Party with headliners PitBull and Neyo to overseeing multiple outlets and managing vendor agreements, every aspect of my role was geared towards creating unforgettable dining experiences.

One of my primary responsibilities was curating the opening party, setting the stage for Thompson Hotel's debut in Miami Beach. From conceptualizing themes to coordinating with vendors and ensuring flawless execution, it was a testament to our dedication to creating memorable moments for our guests.

Staffing played a crucial role in maintaining the high standards of service across multiple outlets, including pool events, lounges, and two Michelin-starred restaurants. Training and empowering our team to deliver exceptional service was key to fostering a culture of hospitality excellence.

Procuring dishes, glassware, and staff uniforms was a meticulous process aimed at aligning with Thompson Hotel's sophisticated brand identity. Attention to detail in every aspect of presentation contributed to the overall dining experience, elevating it to a level of refined elegance.

Managing vendor agreements was a strategic endeavor that involved negotiating contracts to ensure quality ingredients and services while maintaining cost efficiency. Building strong partnerships with vendors was essential in delivering exceptional culinary offerings to our guests.

Overseeing multiple outlets provided a dynamic environment where creativity and innovation thrived. From designing unique menus to organizing themed events and collaborations, we constantly pushed the boundaries to delight our guests and keep them coming back for more.

Being part of Thompson Hotel's journey in Miami Beach was not just about managing operations but creating a culinary destination that resonated with locals and travelers alike. It was a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence, impeccable service, and creating unforgettable experiences that set Thompson Hotel apart in Miami's vibrant hospitality scene.

As Thompson Hotel continues to evolve and innovate, I am proud to have been part of its foundation, contributing to its success and reputation as a culinary and hospitality leader in Miami Beach.

 
 
Read More
Restaurants Desirey Virgin Restaurants Desirey Virgin

Event Producer - SUPERFLYX

From iconic experiences like the Friend Experience and The Office Experience to large-scale festivals like Banaroo and The Revolt Conference, I've been deeply involved in every aspect of event production. From hiring and managing staff to crafting marketing strategies and ensuring flawless execution on the ground, I've played a pivotal role in creating unforgettable moments for audiences nationwide.

 

As a touring event producer with Superfly Media experiences, my career has been a whirlwind of creativity, logistics, and unforgettable moments across North America. From the electric energy of the Friend Experience to the nostalgia of The Office Experience, and the massive celebrations like Banaroo and The Revolt Conference, I've had the privilege of crafting immersive experiences that resonate deeply with audiences.

One of the most exciting aspects of my role has been the opportunity to bring diverse visions to life. From conceptualizing the experience and devising marketing strategies to managing staff and ensuring flawless execution on the ground, every step has been a thrilling challenge.

Hiring the right talent has been key to our success. Building a team that shares a passion for creating magic and understands the intricacies of event production has been a rewarding endeavor. It's incredible to see how a dedicated team can turn a concept into a full-fledged, immersive reality that leaves guests awe-inspired.

Logistics play a crucial role in our work. From securing venues to coordinating transportation and accommodations for staff and talent, every detail must align seamlessly to deliver a flawless experience. This behind-the-scenes work is often intense but immensely gratifying when we see everything come together harmoniously.

Marketing and ticket sales are where the magic of anticipation begins. Crafting campaigns that capture the essence of each experience and resonate with our target audience is both an art and a science. Seeing the excitement build as tickets fly off the shelves is a testament to the effectiveness of our strategies and the appeal of the experiences we create.

Being part of Superfly Media experiences has allowed me to push the boundaries of event production and storytelling. Each project presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, keeping me constantly inspired and motivated. I look forward to continuing this journey of crafting memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on all who attend.

 
Read More