life
Written by Sarah Joseph
4 hours ago
This week we speak to Daisy Merchant, Private Lifestyle Director at Quintessentially Middle East. It is a premier luxury lifestyle management service known for its personalized approach and extensive global network.
Welcome to Emirates Woman’s weekly series ‘How I got my job’. In this series, we speak to incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen based in the UAE and around the world to learn about their career paths that got them to where they are today. What is their daily life like? Advice for those just starting out. and the hurdles they had to overcome
With nearly 20 years of experience, Merchant has been instrumental in providing tailored experiences and exceptional service to the high net worth and ultra high net worth communities.
As Director of Private Lifestyle, Daisy oversees a team of over 30 lifestyle managers and travel professionals. Her role includes initial engagement with prospective members, identifying their unique lifestyle needs and recommending the most appropriate membership level.
We spoke to the Emirates Woman, known for her meticulous approach, to find out how it all started.
What is your favorite subject at school?
I was always drawn to literature. Reading allows me to explore different perspectives and fuels my passion for moving and enriching experiences, which is at the core of what I do today.
What was your first job?
My first role was with Silverjet, a British business class airline. Being promoted to an Ambassador role there gave me early exposure to luxury service and networking that shaped my career path and commitment to excellence. ”
What made you come to Dubai?
The energy in Dubai is unlike anywhere else. It’s a place of luxury and innovation, making it the ideal place for a job like mine. I was excited to bring my expertise to this vibrant market and expand our lifestyle offer in the region.
What inspired you to enter the travel industry and work as a private lifestyle director?
I have always been drawn to experiences that add depth and joy to everyday life. Working here, I bring that vision to life every day by providing local women with a unique approach to luxury lifestyle management.
Please tell us about the concept.
Our focus is on providing a discreet, fulfilling and truly bespoke service. From special travel arrangements to health and education consulting, we aim to create life-enriching experiences that meet the unique needs of each member.
What are the key elements of your role as a Private Lifestyle Director?
As Director of Private Lifestyle, I oversee a team of over 30 Lifestyle Managers who work tirelessly to provide exceptional service, including arranging private events, managing travel plans, and assisting with real estate. I’m doing it. We strive to make every interaction feel easy yet impactful. I supervise the onboarding of new members. You need to understand their requirements and make sure they engage the right demographic and match them with the perfect lifestyle manager. Networking is a big part of my role and involves a lot of client meetings and introductions.
Please tell us about your daily life.
My day revolves around member “and prospective member” engagement and coordinating with my Lifestyle Manager, the “Marketing and Benefits Team.” Whether it’s a last-minute request or a carefully curated itinerary, each day is different but always focused. Exceeded expectations.
What advice would you give to others looking to follow in your same footsteps?
Have a true passion for helping others and be highly sensitive to people’s needs. Building relationships and trusting networks are essential to success in a luxury lifestyle career.
Please tell us more about the services you provide.
We offer everything from personal concierge support and event management to arranging private and bespoke travel experiences. Our team takes pride in anticipating needs, simplifying the complexities of daily life, and delivering moments of transformation.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Always put your client’s needs first. It may sound simple, but focusing on it builds lasting relationships and ensures each member’s experience is always great.
And what’s the worst?
That luxury service should be predictable. True luxury is about personalization, and for us there is no “formula.” Every member deserves a unique experience.
What was the biggest challenge you had to overcome to get through Private Lifestyle Director?
During the pandemic, adapting services to new restrictions while maintaining standards has been a challenge. But it led to creative solutions that strengthened our resilience and innovation.
What are your future aspirations for the brand?
My goal is to expand our footprint across the Middle East by continually adapting to what today’s women value most in luxury: privacy, personalization, and elevated experiences beyond the everyday. and to enhance our services.
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Image: Provided
