James Fynes
SHA’07 Director of Sales, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Current Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Why did you choose SHA?
I grew up working in the restaurant industry and was lucky enough to find my passion early in life. When it came time to apply for college I only looked at schools that had top-tiered Hospitality programs. After visiting and falling in love with the city of Boston- I knew BU and SHA were the perfect fit for me!
What are some of your favorite BU memories?
I rowed crew Freshman/ Sophomore year and being out on the river at 5AM seeing the sunrise over the Boston skyline will forever be embedded in my mind. I also attended as many BU Hockey games as I could so the Beanpot also sticks out!
What was your first full-time job? How did you end up in your current position?
My first position out of SHA was Sales Representative at The Fairmont Copley Plaza. I had completed a project for the Regional Director of Sales & Marketing at the hotel for an Advanced Marketing Class with Professor Buchin and the opportunity to join FRHI presented itself. I have now been with the company almost eight years and held various roles in Sales & Marketing in four different properties across Boston, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.
Please describe your current role. How did your SHA education impact your career?
In my current role as Director of Sales at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, I am responsible for developing a commercial strategy covering the group and corporate segments to maximize the revenue and profit performance of the hotel. My main focus is leading the execution of the commercial strategy through coordinated efforts with revenue management, sales, marketing and public relations teams, and by working effectively with the regional and area support offices.
Any advice for current and prospective students?
Set ambitious goals for your career and position yourself well to reach these goals- there is no substitute for hard work and dedication. Along the way the path may change, but with focused efforts and support and guidance from those you trust, the end destination will present itself.