Zi Ismael (CLSSGB)

I am a seasoned professional with a multifaceted career spanning over 25 years, showcasing my adaptability and ability to excel across diverse industries. My extensive background includes significant contributions in hospitality, corporate banking, retail supply chain management, and PR & Marketing Communications.

In the hospitality sector, I have excelled in sales leadership roles, including Assistant Director of Sales and Acting Director of Sales & Marketing, where I successfully developed strategies that drove revenue growth, secured high-profile MICE events, and built lasting client relationships. My contributions to prestigious properties like Avani Gold Coast Resort reflect my ability to navigate the unique demands of the industry while achieving ambitious targets.

My tenure in the corporate banking sector provided a deep understanding of risk management, business continuity, and operational excellence. As AVP for Business Development and a key player in post-merger integrations, I led initiatives that streamlined processes, optimized resources, and achieved significant synergies, including AED15 million savings during the NBAD and FGB merger.

In the retail supply chain, I spearheaded transformative strategies as Head of Sales and Operations, achieving rapid revenue growth and operational efficiency. My efforts led to a remarkable 80% increase in retail sales and a 60% reduction in inventory costs, showcasing my ability to implement innovative solutions in a competitive landscape.

My experience in PR and Marketing Communications includes leading corporate branding initiatives, fostering media relations, and driving impactful campaigns that enhanced brand visibility and engagement. I have a proven track record of aligning communication strategies with business objectives to achieve measurable outcomes.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to leadership, innovation, and operational excellence. My ability to integrate sales, marketing, and operational strategies with business goals has consistently driven results and contributed to organizational success.

With a strong foundation in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration, I am eager to bring my diverse expertise to your organization, contributing to its growth and excellence.

I have over 25 years of professional experience across various sectors, including:

• PR and Marketing Communications: 3 years.
• Hospitality Sales Leadership: Over 8 years, culminating in roles like Assistant Director of Sales (Acting DOSM).
• Retail Supply Chain Management: 2 years, leading sales and operations with significant accomplishments in inventory management and market expansion.
• Corporate Banking (Risk Management): 12 years, focusing on business continuity, disaster recovery, and integration of merged entities.

Mercu Cita Sdn Bhd (2023 - 2024):

• Spearheaded retail operations and sales growth strategies.
• Achieved significant milestones, including an 80% revenue increase and streamlined inventory processes.

Avani Gold Coast Resort (2021 - 2023):

• Played a pivotal role in achieving revenue targets through strategic sales, locking major MICE events, and corporate collaborations.
• Developed and executed large-scale event strategies with notable revenue impact.

MAA Group Berhad (2020 - 2021):

• Led corporate communication strategies, media relations, and brand consistency initiatives.
• Successfully closed significant deals, such as a RM450,000 cinema ad project.

National Bank of Abu Dhabi & First Abu Dhabi Bank (2010 - 2019):

• Directed business continuity and risk management initiatives.
• Led the successful integration of NBAD and FGB, achieving synergies of AED15 million.

Tanco Resorts & Century Mahkota Hotel (2000 - 2008):

• Drove sales strategies to secure high-value contracts and manage MICE bookings.
• Collaborated with prominent clients, including government entities and corporations.

Achievements:

• Consistently exceeded sales and revenue targets in hospitality and retail sectors.
• Played leadership roles in major corporate transitions and integrations.
• Introduced innovative strategies, such as paperless business cards for MAA Group and improved inventory processes for Mercu Cita.
• Locked large-scale events and corporate collaborations, including RM1.2 million GLC events and AED15 million post-merger synergies.

Skill Set:

• Leadership and crisis management.
• Sales and marketing expertise.
• Operational efficiency and financial acumen.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Technology proficiency in systems like Opera, HRIS, ORAP, and Trello.

Education and Certifications:

• Executive MBA (2014): Amity University, UAE.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt) Certification (2017): Emirates Institute of Banking.

• Executive MBA (2014): Amity University, UAE.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt) Certification (2017): Emirates Institute of Banking.