MARTINA RUSSI

Events & Operations Leader | Hospitality Expert | Transforming Start-Ups into Thriving Enterprises

Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

About

Strategic Event & Operations Leader | 20+ Years of Expertise in Hospitality & F&B With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and event planning industries, I specialize in overseeing high-profile, large-scale events and optimizing F&B operations to deliver exceptional experiences. My background spans a wide range of events, including luxury weddings, corporate conferences, product launches, and high-end private functions. I excel at transforming client visions into reality while consistently exceeding financial, operational, and service targets. Throughout my career, I’ve gained extensive expertise in managing F&B operations, ensuring seamless integration between event logistics and culinary services. From menu creation and vendor management to ensuring timely and high-quality service delivery, I oversee every detail to ensure an outstanding dining experience for guests. I work closely with top chefs, catering teams, and suppliers to craft bespoke, memorable culinary experiences that align with each event’s theme and client expectations. I have a deep understanding of SOP creation, P&L management, and resource allocation, which allows me to drive operational efficiency and maintain high service standards, even during peak event seasons. I am adept at managing complex logistics, coordinating multi-national teams, and handling diverse client needs, from intimate gatherings to large corporate events. Known for my ability to build and lead cohesive teams, I motivate staff to drive continuous improvement, enhance customer satisfaction, and deliver results. My strong commercial acumen, project management skills, and multilingual abilities allow me to execute seamless events while ensuring operational excellence. With a passion for both event planning and F&B innovation, I bring a strategic, dynamic approach to every project.

Experience

  • OPERATIONS MANAGER @DESTINO PACHA IBIZA at DESTINO PACHA IBIZA
    Feb 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 6 mos

    I oversee and coordinate all major hotel departments, including reception, F&B, and HR, ensuring compliance with established budgets and promoting internal sales. By streamlining communication and collaboration, I have significantly enhanced departmental performance and reduced operating costs. I also introduced targeted cross-selling strategies that boosted internal sales and ensured the consistent delivery of brand standards across all business areas. My role is pivotal in supporting the Hotel Manager in executing the site business plan, driving organizational success, and maintaining operational efficiency.

  • MICE MANAGER SPAIN at UNIVERSO PACHA SA
    Apr 2018 - Sep 2021 · 3 yrs 6 mos

    • At PACHA, I led the organization and execution of high-profile private events, including weddings, corporate functions, and product launches. Managing a team of seven, I oversaw every stage of event planning, from client contact to post-event evaluation. I implemented SOPs that enhanced departmental efficiency and service quality, contributing to a record €2M in revenue from 36 events in 2019. My efforts in expanding the corporate client base and improving event execution quality led to increased client satisfaction and sustained revenue growth.

  • Operation manager at COTTON BEACH- COTTON LOUNGE AND COTTON GYM CLUB
    Jan 2015 - Feb 2018 · 3 yrs 2 mos

    As Operations Director, I managed market strategies, resource allocation, and logistics for the hospitality group. I successfully optimized processes across multiple venues, resulting in increased operational efficiency and reduced costs. My leadership was instrumental in opening two new premises, driving the group’s expansion and boosting market share. Additionally, I developed comprehensive training and induction programs that improved staff retention and service quality.

  • RECEPTION MANAGER & EVENT COORDINATOR at EL CHIRINGUITO DE ES CAVALLET
    Apr 2012 - Sep 2015 · 3 yrs 6 mos

    I coordinated and managed high-volume reservations for a beachfront restaurant, while also curating and executing over 50 private events, each hosting up to 600 guests. I implemented an efficient table turnover system that increased daily service capacity and enforced consistent service standards that enhanced customer satisfaction. My introduction of a new reservation management system reduced errors, and my targeted staff training initiatives improved overall performance.

  • PROJECT MANAGER - EXPANSION at CIBIAMO GROUP
    Feb 2010 - Apr 2012 · 2 yrs 3 mos

    I led the expansion of an Italian hospitality group, overseeing the launch and coordination of three new locations in central London. My responsibilities included selecting strategic locations, negotiating supplier contracts, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. I implemented comprehensive SOPs that streamlined operational processes and developed targeted marketing strategies that enhanced brand visibility and customer loyalty. My efforts in improving training programs and optimizing resource allocation contributed to exceeding revenue projections and boosting operational efficiency.