Tobias Townsend

Brand Manager at De'Longhi Group

Woollahra, New South Wales, Australia

About

With over 20 years of international experience, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of brand identity and the human experience. My career has taken me from the heritage halls of The Ritz London to the fast-paced world of global consumer goods at De’Longhi, and across the globe as a consultant for the world's finest hotels. I’m a firm believer that a brand is only as strong as the stories it tells and the promises it keeps. Whether I’m managing a $55M portfolio or art-directing a campaign, my goal is always the same: to turn complex challenges into emotive guest or consumer experiences that drive real commercial results. I pride myself on being a collaborative partner who can navigate high-pressure environments with a bit of diplomacy and a lot of heart. Core Interests: Story-led Brand Marketing Luxury Hospitality & Heritage Brands Strategic Partnerships & Experiential Activations Cross-Functional Leadership & Diplomacy Illustration

Experience

  • Brand Manager at De'Longhi Group
    Nov 2022 - Present · 3 yrs 9 mos

    Currently leading the strategic direction for $55M annual revenue portfolios across the ANZ market. My role is all about bridging the gap between our Global HQ in Italy and our local customers. I’ve loved trying to market our "Italianity", enjoyed turning in-depth data analysis into impactful strategies, and lobbying hard for products to deliver local market success.

  • Senior Consultant at LQA
    Mar 2014 - Sep 2022 · 8 yrs 7 mos

    This role was the foundation of my career in luxury. I conducted over 600 quality audits for some of the world’s most iconic hotel portfolios. It wasn't just about checking boxes; it was about understanding the guest journey and helping hotel teams across different cultures turn data into better service.

  • Communications Manager at The Ritz London
    Oct 2012 - Jan 2014 · 1 yr 4 mos

    A dream role protecting and modernizing a true heritage icon. I had the privilege of working with brilliant people who took incredible pride in their work, and tapping the endless goldmine of story-led communications. A particular highlight was leading our efforts for the Coronation Festival at Buckingham Palace. We managed to exceed revenue targets while bringing the "Ritz experience" to the Palace grounds.

  • Marketing Communications Manager at Rocco Forte Hotels
    Aug 2011 - Oct 2012 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Part of the core pre-opening team for the group’s first hotel outside of Europe. It was an intense, rewarding lesson in adaptability—building a brand footprint from scratch in a new region and securing global coverage like the Condé Nast Traveller 'Hot List'.

  • Senior Consultant at LQA
    Mar 2007 - Mar 2011 · 4 yrs 1 mo

    This role was the foundation of my career in luxury. I conducted over 600 quality audits for some of the world’s most iconic hotel portfolios. It wasn't just about checking boxes; it was about understanding the guest journey and helping hotel teams across different cultures turn data into better service.