Sasha Samano
Beaufort,LU
Summary
Regional Development Manager with extensive experience in franchise growth and profitability enhancement at KidZania Operations. Skilled in strategic partnerships and market analysis, leading to substantial attendance increases. Proven ability in relationship management and cross-functional leadership, driving operational excellence across multiple regions.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Regional Development Manager
KidZania Operations
01.2017 - 10.2024
- Spearhead franchise growth initiatives across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, driving annual performance reviews, financial targets, and operational excellence across regions. Boosted admissions yield in Moscow 16% and Lisbon 8%
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams (Architecture, Content, HR, Finance) to design and implement region-specific business strategies, optimizing profitability and brand visibility. (School program penetration, increasing attendance 15% year over year-London)
- Develop tailored business plans and budgets for each franchise, interpreting financial data to recommend corrective actions and growth opportunities. (Secured the highest Party market share in the region-20% growth in one year)
- Lead market analyses to shape region-specific strategies, ensuring alignment with local conditions and consumer preferences. (Implemented a loyalty program in London as a strategic initiative to enhance customer retention and brand awareness, increasing the conversion rate from 1% to 5% in under six months)
Senior Account Manager
KidZania Operations
04.2013 - 12.2017
- Led the successful launch of franchises in major European and Latin American markets, including London and São Paulo (2015).
- Developed operational strategies to ensure brand consistency and quality across all global franchises.
- Headed cross-functional teams in the design and execution of large-scale international projects, including construction, marketing, recruitment and sales.
- Managed complex operational challenges, reducing wait times through more efficient queue management systems at key locations (London).
Project Manager
KidZania Operations
01.2008 - 03.2013
- Drove the development of new franchises in emerging markets such as Lisbon (2009), Dubai (2010), and Santiago de Chile (2012), establishing a strong market presence in each location.
- Delivered exceptional first-year attendance growth in Dubai, significantly exceeding budget expectations. (Achieved 80% attendance growth over budget in KZ Dubai’s first year of operation)
Groups Manager
Vallarta Adventures
11.2006 - 01.2008
- Established and structured the Groups and Conventions department, defining operational policies and standardizing internal processes.
- Managed large-scale logistics operations for corporate groups, agencies, and wholesalers, improving customer service and operational efficiency.
- Negotiated strategic alliances with leading wholesale travel agencies, strengthening the company’s market position and driving business expansion through successful contract negotiations.
Account Executive
American Express Company
03.2002 - 10.2006
- Boosted portfolio sales 5% in the large market across 5 key market companies.
- Provided financial analyses and cost-saving solutions to clients, resulting in significant savings and strengthened client relationships.
- Successfully recovered a lost key account, driving a 100% revenue increase.
Education
Master’s degree - International Business Administration
Universidad Anáhuac del Sur
Mexico City, MexicoBachelor’s degree - Tourism Business Administration
Universidad Anáhuac del Sur
Mexico City, MexicoSkills
- Relationship management
- Communication skills
- Key account management
- Negotiation and persuasion
- Sales growth
- Client retention strategies
- Business development
- Financial planning
- Strategic partnerships
- Problem-solving
- Cross-functional leadership
- Market analysis
Languages
- Spanish, C2
- English, C1
- French, B2
- Luxembourgish, A2
Certification
- Oxford Artificial Intelligence Program
- Foundation, digital marketing, and e-commerce
- Client relationship management and negotiation
- Strategic thinking and business solutions
Languages
Spanish
First Language
English
Advanced (C1)
C1
French
Upper Intermediate (B2)
B2
Luxembourgish
Elementary (A2)
A2
Affiliations
- Yoga
- Hike in the forest
Timeline
Regional Development Manager
KidZania Operations
01.2017 - 10.2024
Senior Account Manager
KidZania Operations
04.2013 - 12.2017
Project Manager
KidZania Operations
01.2008 - 03.2013
Groups Manager
Vallarta Adventures
11.2006 - 01.2008
Account Executive
American Express Company
03.2002 - 10.2006
Master’s degree - International Business Administration
Universidad Anáhuac del Sur
Bachelor’s degree - Tourism Business Administration
Universidad Anáhuac del Sur
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