< Previous10 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Careers New multi-property director of finance at Fairmont Fairmont Hotels and Resorts has appointed Joseph Roy as cluster director of finance for Fairmont Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Ajman and Fujairah. “I am deeply honoured to become a part of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a brand that epitomises excellence, and assume the role of Cluster Director of Finance for these three iconic properties. I am eager to contribute to the enhancement of these properties and to be able to work alongside an exceptional team of hospitality professionals”, said Roy. His responsibilities include financial reporting, analysis, budgeting, forecasting, auditing, compliance, risk management, process improvement, procurement, decision-making, and stakeholder relations. Joe Nassoura, general manager at Fairmont Dubai, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Joseph into our team. His impressive career trajectory and deep-rooted knowledge of hospitality accounting systems makes him an invaluable addition to the Fairmont team.” Elias Chakhtoura, cluster general manager at Fairmont Ajman Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis has appointed Karthika Anil as HR Manager. Anil began her career at Radisson Blu, Deira Creek in 2018 as an intern, delving into various departments, including front office, meetings & events, sales, F&B and reservations. Inspired by her father, a seasoned hotelier, Anil’s passion for hospitality has been deeply ingrained since childhood. She said: “Hospitality runs in my blood. Being surrounded by the energy of hotels since my childhood ignited my passion for the industry. I’ve always been fascinated by the ‘behind the scenes’ magic of creating memorable guest experiences.” Stuart Birkwood, general manager at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis, added: “Kart is truly an incredible rockstar for us. Her drive to succeed aligned with a real intuition for the hotel business marked her out very early as one to watch. Stay tuned – she’s got a fantastic career ahead of her.” Her new hotel says Anil is a pivotal member of the team, exhibiting dedication and leadership qualities in her HR journey. She has already played a pivotal role in elevating employee engagement scores from 78 percent to 86 percent and enablement score from 88 percent to 93 percent within a year. Radisson RED Dubai welcomes new HR manager and Fujairah, added: “Joseph’s track record of success and his commitment to excellence are indicative of the contributions he will bring to the finance department of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, elevating the hotel’s financial operations to new heights. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to achieving new milestones.”Careers / Appointments APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 11 The Lux Collective brings in chief development officer – EMEA Hospitality management group The Lux Collective has appointed Oliviero Cassini as chief development officer – EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa). Based in Dubai, he brings twenty years of experience in the luxury hospitality sector to the role. Prior to joining The Lux Collective, Cassini served as the director of development at Red Sea Global and held senior positions in the UAE, Qatar and Europe. Jumeirah Group appoints Michael Grieve as chief brand officer Jumeirah Group has appointed Michael Grieve as chief brand officer. He will be in charge of leading the brand’s evolution as part of its Mission 2030 strategy. With a background as vice president brand and client at Gucci, overseeing brand, communications, events, and client development across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Grieve will commence his role at Jumeirah in April. Originally from New Zealand, Grieve has had a 16-year career working for renowned international brands like BMW Group, adidas, Nike, and most recently, Gucci in Milan. He brings a proven track record of driving business success across iconic brands and will be instrumental in reshaping Jumeirah’s brand, crafting a compelling value proposition, and enhancing its experiential offerings to solidify its position as a globally recognised hospitality group. Grieve’s extensive experience includes managing brands like BMW and MINI in New Zealand, leading global campaigns for adidas and Nike, and spearheading brand marketing and client engagement for Gucci Maison in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Grieve said: “My passion lies in creating and delivering impactful brand strategies that resonate with diverse and discerning audiences, grounded in authenticity and the brand’s core values. The Jumeirah brand is built from exceptionally strong foundations, and I believe we now have an He said: “I am excited to join The Lux Collective, a truly trendsetting hospitality company, which has created and is managing some of the world’s most innovative and successful brands. I am confident that the introduction of LUX*, SALT, TAMASSA and SOCIO in the EMEA region will receive the interest and recognition these brands deserve.” His career so far has seen him spearhead hospitality development projects in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and South America, contributing to ventures such as AMAALA in Saudi Arabia and Lusail City in Qatar. Cassini is poised to drive the expansion of The Lux Collective’s four distinct brands in the EMEA region, aligning with the group’s established success in the Indian Ocean and Asia. Fluent in five languages and holding a British-German bachelor’s degree in European Business Administration, Cassini’s appointment underscores The Lux Collective’s commitment to solidifying its presence in the EMEA market. CEO Paul Jones said: “Oliviero has a proven track record in conceptualising and delivering luxury hospitality developments. We are confident that under his leadership, The Lux Collective will further cement its commitment in this growing region and continue to expand its global footprint as a leading world-class hospitality group.” unparalleled opportunity to define an identity and ultra-luxury experience that sets Jumeirah apart and supports its global growth ambitions. I’m very proud to join Jumeirah on this exciting journey.” Grieve’s appointment is part of a series of senior hires made by Jumeirah in line with its Mission 2030 strategic plan, including Joanne Behrens as senior vice president of architecture and spatial design, Niamh O’Connell as vice president of wellbeing, and Bryanne Tait as global senior director of sustainability. The announcement also came soon after former CEO Katerina Giannouka stepped down from her role.APRIL 25-27, DIFCJoin us for a weekend of great taste VISIT GAULTMILLAUAE.COM TODAY FOR FULL DETAILS GRÉGOIRE BERGER HIMANSHU SAINI HISAO UEDA JASON ATHERTON KELVIN CHEUNG MOHAMAD & WASSIM ORFALI ROBERTO TORRE RUBEN GUERRERO SAVERIO SBARAGLI TAKASHI NAMEKATA TOM ALLEN LIVE KITCHENS LIVE BEVERAGE PAIRING LIVE JAZZxxxxxxxxxx 14 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 The Lana, A Dorchester Collection Hotelxxxxxxxxxx APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 15 Leaders in luxury General managers from 22 of the Middle East’s most luxurious properties tell us about what makes their hotels so special and why opulence is so popular in the region16 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Leaders in luxury ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT General manager: Maren Kuehl “Luxury hospitality embodies the art of crafting unforgettable experiences through meticulous attention to detail and personalised service. Each interaction is an opportunity to weave a tapestry of memories, curated specifically for the discerning guest. By embracing the essence of the destination, luxury resorts offer bespoke experiences that resonate deeply with the desires of their guests, elevating their stay to a journey of unparalleled indulgence and discovery. “Our unique mountain retreat, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, rises 2000 metres above sea level, offers unparalleled views that leave a lasting imprint on the soul. Here, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Omani culture, expertly curated by our dedicated local team members while savouring delectable cuisines and indulging in lavish amenities. “With a commitment to personalised service and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, our resort ensures a bespoke retreat tailored to each guest’s desires. Whether craving adventure or seeking solace in well-being, our oasis caters to the discerning tastes of those who seek the extraordinary. Embracing sustainability as a cornerstone, we pledge to preserve the beauty of our surroundings for generations to come.” ANANTARA MINA AL ARAB RAS AL KHAIMAH General manager: Ramsey Saarany “Luxury has evolved beyond mere opulence and extravagance. The new era of luxury resides in ultra-luxury hospitality, where elegance, exclusivity, and exceptional service reign supreme. At its core are the individuals – orchestrators of unforgettable moments and architects of bespoke experiences. “Luxury hospitality isn’t simply about providing an exceptional hotel product; it’s about developing a culture committed to authentic service and attention to detail. It’s about anticipating each guest’s needs, crafting personalised experiences that exceed expectations, and fostering genuine connections – an expectation in the ultra-luxury hospitality market. From tailored amenities to customised services, every element must be thoughtfully curated to ensure heightened comfort and satisfaction. Hotel spaces have evolved to cater perfectly to the new luxury traveller, with technology seamlessly integrated to enhance the experience. “Hoteliers are no longer just service providers; they are experience architects, memory makers, and dream fulfillers. The ultra-luxury hospitality industry isn’t just a service - it’s a commitment to excellence, a dedication to creating moments that transcend time, and a promise to deliver nothing short of perfection. “Anantara Mina Al Arab stands out as an exclusive destination, boasting the first overwater villa resort in Ras Al Khaimah, reminiscent of the Maldives. Designed to seamlessly blend with the surrounding mangrove reserve, these luxurious villas offer unparalleled privacy and breath-taking views. Additionally, guests can immerse themselves in Ras Al Khaimah’s rich heritage and natural beauty through diverse outdoor adventures and cultural offerings, from hiking in the Hajar Mountains to private guided tours of historical sites.”APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 17 Leaders in luxury ATLANTIS THE ROYAL Managing director: Tom Roelens “At Atlantis The Royal, we continually ask ourselves, ‘what are we providing our guests that they have never seen before? What services and experiences are we delivering that they cannot get anywhere else? What will make someone who has seen and experienced everything, return to us time and time again?’. Succeeding in the delivery of ultra-luxury is about providing the answer to these questions. “The reality is that a luxury resort with opulent suites or celebrity chef restaurants today is an expectation, but ultimately, it’s the people who deliver the extraordinary and go above and beyond to create that wow factor in a genuine way. The interactions guests have with our colleagues are the silver bullet to delivering a truly ultra-luxury experience. Allowing the team to be themselves and to genuinely connect with the guests to provide anticipatory personal service. Something hyper-personalised, something so special it has to be experienced to be believed. Atlantis The Royal offers 24/7 attention to detail, so that every guest has exactly what they want, when they want and how they want it, before they have even dreamed about it or asked for it.” EMIRATES PALACE MANDARIN ORIENTAL, ABU DHABI General manager: Michael Koth “Luxury hospitality lies on the aspiration to delight visitors at the utmost approach possible and goes beyond the ordinary in anticipating the needs of our guests prior to their arrival. At Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, we create a magical stay accompanied by unrivalled and award- winning culinary experiences, the finest showcase of hospitable service and noteworthy activities made for everyone. We offer exclusive rooms and suites with opulent views and a level of sophistication. “Our hotel is grand in every aspect and situated as a notable property to stay and dine in for both the expats and locals. We provide an array of offerings with our twelve dining venues. “Our exceptional chefs, splendid resort offerings, kids activities and water sports, pristine 1.3-kilometre private beach, and unique treatments and services offered at our spa helps us stand out among the rest of the luxury leaders.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RIYADH Regional vice president & general manager: Guenter Gebhard “In a world characterised by relentless speed, immediate accessibility and constant demands, luxury is synonymous with the invaluable gift of time – a rare chance for individuals to pause, unwind, and immerse themselves in truly enriching experiences. Luxury hospitality is all about providing guests with the space and opportunity to slow down, reconnect with themselves, or to speed up by removing obstacles and ease access, all in creating lasting memories that hold significance in their lives, personal or business. By embracing this philosophy, we strive to redefine luxury within the hospitality industry, emphasising the importance of offering guests the precious commodity of time in an increasingly fast-paced world. “What sets Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh apart is our commitment to curating moments of luxury that resonate with our guests’ desire for meaningful experiences. Time for me is the ultimate luxury as we all have only 24hrs in a day. It is about the experiences in this window of one day that makes it special, every day.”18 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Leaders in luxury MONDRIAN DOHA General manager: Mikel Ibrahim “For me, luxury hospitality is the ability to deliver a personalised experience that resonates deeply with guests, leaving a lasting impression of excellence, innovation and excitement that keeps them wanting to return. “While opulent interiors and impeccable service are essential facets, I believe that beyond this, true luxury lies in the ability to anticipate and exceed guest expectations and remain dynamic in a competitive market that is ever evolving. It is a fusion of daring innovation, impactful experiences and bold ideas that are infused. It is about creating moments that transcend the ordinary, push boundaries and consistently strive to deliver extraordinary experiences that captivate and inspire guests. “Mondrian Doha stands out as a beacon of innovation and creativity in the luxury hospitality landscape, driven by its commitment to redefining the guest experience. The hotel offers a whimsical journey through a world of imagination, where every corner is a blend of art, culture, and design.” 18 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST COM / APRIL 2024 JUMEIRAH GULF OF BAHRAIN RESORT & SPA General manager: Thibault de Vries “I believe luxury hospitality is about forging an emotional connection with our guests, creating unforgettable memories, and delivering a personalised service that resonates long after their stay. It anticipates the needs of each guest and exceeds their expectations at every touchpoint. It’s about creating a haven where every moment is crafted with precision and care, where guests are enveloped in a world of refined indulgence and effortless sophistication. “Guided by a famous quote by Leonardo da Vinci ‘details make perfection, and perfection is not a detail’, I believe that true luxury lies in the meticulous attention to every aspect of our guests’ experience. From the moment our guests arrive until their departure, we strive to curate an immersive journey filled with bespoke amenities, impeccable attention to detail, and genuine warmth.” MANDARIN ORIENTAL DUBAI, JUMEIRA General manager: Werner Anzinger “Our commitment to luxury begins with our people. With over two decades of experience spanning seven countries and three continents, I’ve cultivated a team that shares my passion for excellence. Together, we’ve transformed Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai into a beacon of hospitality, that is a success story within the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group portfolio. “Innovation is at the core of our ethos. We aim to go beyond providing luxurious accommodations and dining experiences by playing a meaningful cultural role in the community. It is important to meet the evolving demands of luxury consumers by offering culturally enriching experiences that educate, inspire, and foster loyalty, and we do this through partnerships with Emirati artists and tastemakers, as we seek to earn a place in the region’s cultural conversation. “It’s essential for us to actively engage in topics that resonate with our guests, spanning from cuisine and sustainability to art and culture.”APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 19 Leaders in luxury ONE&ONLY ZA’ABEEL Vice president of One&Only Za’abeel: Cristian Fumado, “As One&Only’s first-ever urban resort in the world, the property provides ultra-luxury resort experiences in a dynamic city setting that set it apart from other luxury hotels in the region. Luxury hospitality incorporates exceptional location and design, personalised attention and unparalleled levels of service and amenities to create memorable experiences for discerning travellers. This involves going above and beyond to anticipate and fulfil the needs and desires of each guest, ensuring every aspect of their stay is meticulously crafted to exceed expectations. “Luxury hospitality for me today transcends beyond accommodation and facilities. It’s about being unique and different by crafting special moments that linger in the hearts of our guests, the experience that although not tangible is everlasting. From the moment they arrive, we are committed to exceeding expectations, orchestrating a symphony of personalised care with attention to detail.” NIKKI BEACH HOTELS & RESORTS EMEA Vice president: Hanna Azzi “Luxury in hospitality isn’t only about opulent settings or lavish amenities, it’s about the people who curate experiences and infuse them with a sense of comfort and joy. Regardless of how strong, good, or expensive your product may be, without the support and dedication of people creating the experience, it lacks true value. “Luxury is embodied by the dedicated team that breathes life into every guest’s stay. At the heart of the brand lies a profound mission: to awaken each day with a commitment to revel in life and to share that infectious spirit with our guests. This ethos isn’t just a slogan but a way of life, instilled in every member of the Nikki Beach family. It’s also vital for everyone to represent the brand well. This means more than just knowing about it, but it’s about living its values every day. We want each staff member to feel proud to be part of our family and to help blend our six signature elements - music, dining, entertainment, fashion, film, and art - throughout the property.” PARK HYATT DUBAI General manager: Luis Cobo “Here at Park Hyatt Dubai, we redefine the essence of opulence, relaxation, and adventure, enveloping our guests in an extraordinary tapestry of comfort and unforgettable experiences in a way that not only meets but exceeds expectations as well as creating a sense of personal indulgence and exclusivity. Our service is characterised by a natural approach, blending bespoke attention with genuine warmth and authenticity. Our dedication to excellence permeates every aspect of the guest experience every day, from the lavish suites and villas adorned with exquisite furnishings to the culinary masterpieces meticulously crafted by our respected chefs in the resort. Our guests will have gone beyond finding just a place to stay, but a sanctuary where every desire is anticipated and each need is met with both grace and sophistication.”Next >