Group & Events Manager

Company Description

About Orient Express

Artisan of travel since 1883, Orient Express sublimates the art of travel with its luxury trains, hotels, and sailing yachts. The brand has just launched its first hotel, Orient Express La Minerva, in Rome - which will be followed by Orient Express Venezia at Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in 2026. The experience continues with the recent launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express train, followed by Orient Express Corinthian in 2026, the first of two Orient Express Sailing Yachts, and finally, the return of L'Orient Express train to railways. Since 2022, Orient Express is part of Accor Group's leading collection of luxury brands with a century-old legacy in the hotels and fine- dining sectors. In 2024, Accor and LVMH entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of Orient Express. Follow the journey at @orientexpress on Instagram or visit the website at www.orient-express.com.

About Orient Express Sailing Yachts

140 years after the launch of its first luxury trains, the Orient Express legend continues with the launch of the world's largest sailing ships, the Orient Express Corinthian. A revolution in maritime history, and a fabulous project that pushes back the limits of what is possible. The result of a unique French partnership between Accor, the world leader in hospitality, and Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the world's leading cruise ship builder. This extraordinary sailing ship of the future, with its spectacular interiors, will set sail in 2026.

Job Description

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly creative Group & Events Manager. This pivotal role is responsible for the meticulous planning, execution, and flawless delivery of all group bookings and special events onboard and ashore, including events for Charters. This Manager will operate within the commercial team of Orient Express Sailing Yachts.

The ideal candidate will be a visionary with a passion for luxury hospitality, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to curate unique and memorable experiences for a diverse range of high-net-worth individuals, corporate clients, and other discerning private groups.

Key Responsibilities

1. Group Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for all group clients, from initial inquiry through to post-event follow-up, establishing strong, trust-based relationships built on competence and genuine understanding.

• Collaborate closely with the sales and reservations teams to deeply understand client needs, preferences, and contractual agreements for our exclusive clientele.

• Proactively design and develop bespoke, "dream" itineraries and experiences in close collaboration with the Maritime and Operations Departments, ensuring feasibility, safety, and an exceptional guest journey.

• Articulate and confidently "sell" these meticulously crafted itineraries and event concepts to clients, inspiring confidence and excitement in the proposed vision.

• Develop and customize bespoke itineraries, activities, and services that align with group objectives and exceed expectations, showcasing creativity and an understanding of sophisticated tastes.

• Manage all aspects of group logistics, including cabin assignments, dining preferences, activity scheduling, shore excursions, and special requests, with unwavering attention to quality.

• Ensure seamless coordination between all departments (F&B, Spa, Housekeeping, DestexTeam) to deliver a cohesive and exceptional group experience.

• Oversee the financial aspects of group bookings, including managing budgets, tracking expenses, and ensuring accurate billing.

2. Event Planning & Execution:

• Design, plan, and execute a diverse range of onboard and ashore events, including but not limited to:

• Corporate meetings, incentives, and team-building retreats

• Private celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries, weddings)

• Themed nights, gala dinners, and cocktail receptions

• Product launches and exclusive gatherings

• Pre and post-voyage special arrangements

• Conceptualize creative themes, décor, entertainment, and culinary experiences in collaboration with the Chef and relevant departments, leveraging a broad general interest in arts and culture to suggest truly unique and tailor-made elements.

• Source and manage external vendors (e.g., florists, entertainers, photographers) ensuring impeccable quality and adherence to brand standards, especially for bespoke events requests during Charters.

• Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring all details are perfectly managed to the highest luxury standards.

• Anticipate potential issues and proactively implement solutions to ensure smooth event flow.

3. Guest Relations & Service Excellence:

• Build strong, lasting relationships with group leaders and key stakeholders, employing high emotional intelligence to understand unspoken needs and foster genuine connections.

• Be visible and accessible to guests, proactively engaging and addressing any concerns or requests with professionalism, discretion, and a confident yet humble demeanor.

• Act as an ambassador for the company, upholding the highest standards of luxury service and guest care.

• Gather feedback from group guests and conduct post-event evaluations to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

4. Operations & Administration:

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all group and event bookings, communications, and preferences.

• Prepare comprehensive event briefs and communicate them effectively to all relevant departments.

• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations during event execution.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of group and event offerings, policies, and procedures.

• Assist in the development of promotional materials and sales tools for group and charter business.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A strong educational background is essential.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in event management, group sales, or client relations, specifically with high-net-worth individuals, luxury brands, or exclusive private client groups. Experience from luxury hotels is beneficial, but we also welcome candidates from bespoke travel agencies, luxury lifestyle management, or high-end event production companies.

• Proven track record of successfully planning and executing complex events for discerning clientele.

• Demonstrated ability to creatively design and effectively present bespoke itineraries and experiences to clients.

• Demonstrated experience in managing budgets, negotiating with vendors, and leading or significantly contributing to a team.

• Exceptional organizational skills with a meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of what constitutes true quality.

• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to convey competence and expertise with grace and approachability, without any hint of arrogance.

• Fluent in English and French (both written and spoken); proficiency in additional languages is a significant advantage.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and event management software.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse, multicultural team in a challenging and dynamic environment.

• Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to remain calm and effective under pressure.

• A genuine passion for luxury hospitality, travel, and delivering extraordinary guest experiences.

• Demonstrable creativity and a broad general interest in arts, culture, history, and current affairs, enabling the ability to craft truly personalized and enriching itineraries and event concepts.

Desired Attributes

• Exceptional emotional intelligence and interpersonal finesse.

• Creative and innovative mindset with a flair for designing unique experiences.

• Strong consultative sales skills with the ability to inspire and persuade.

• Diplomatic and discrete, with a strong understanding of client confidentiality.

• Proactive, adaptable, and resourceful.

• Excellent cultural awareness and sensitivity.

• A positive attitude and a strong work ethic.

Additional Information