Valerie Wade has over 27 years’ experience in hospitality management and has gained a sound insight into all aspects of running Sales and marketing teams.   She has a proven track record in sales target achievement, maximising sales output, setting up and maintaining efficient and effective systems in all areas. Valerie has held positions all around the globe and has been residing in Dubai for the past 10 years, living an amazing life with her husband, 3 children and 3 beagles, and pursuing her passions for travel, food and wine

Valerie, you’ve had an exciting career, mainly in travel and tourism, but based all around the world at various times… tell us how this all came about and what you’re currently up to…

I started work in hotels aged 14 in Unst, Shetland Islands where I was born and brought up. After trying a few other careers I realised I loved working in hotels, so did a degree at University in Aberdeen in Scotland and haven’t left hotels since. Currently I am Director of Sales and Marketing at the tallest 5 star hotel in the world- The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

You’ve been based in Dubai for a long time now, how does working in the Middle East differ to working in Australia or the UK?  

I have been here 10 years and I love working in Dubai, it’s so multicultural and there is always something new happening. Adapting my management style to handling so many cultural differences was a key learning , and I am proud of the many team members I have helped coach and develop.

What do you see as being the traits of a corporate leader or manager?  

Surround yourself with people who know more than you do, learn from each other, and support and develop your teams. Stay close to your competition and the market trends, and change and adapt to market forces.

What decision changed your life?

When I walked into the General Managers’ office at the Copthorne in Aberdeen and asked to be given the Director of Sales role with no experience, she said I had 6 months and here I am 27 years later! I have met so many amazing people through my different roles many of whom I still have the pleasure to call friends.

And what’s next on the agenda for Valerie Wade?

Right now I am on a General Manager’s training track with Marriott, my goal is to become a General Manager in the next few years- who knows maybe back in Australia!

Most interesting person that you have met?

My Grandmother, listening to all the stories of growing up in Unst when there was no running water, the goods came to the island by boat, and living such a hard life in such challenging conditions, was so interesting. It’s where I come from and the island is a part of me.

Favourite place that you have travelled to and why?

Gosh, that’s a hard one as travelling is one of my passions. I recently visited Bawah reserve in Indonesia, an eco tourism reserve and one of the most beautiful and relaxing places I have been.

What do you love most about your job?

Every day is different, nothing stays the same and the people that you meet. My current hotel is like a destination in itself and my favourite job so far.

To find out more about Valerie head to 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-wade-43981b22/