< Previous40 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Power List Nadia Ouerghui has risen from intern associate to director of housekeeping at Millennium Place Barsha Heights. With over 22 years of experience, she has left a mark at hotels groups such as Hyatt and Rotana. In her current role, she ensures high cleanliness standards across multiple properties. Ouerghui fosters employee development, maintains exemplary interpersonal skills, and champions environmental stewardship, promoting recycling initiatives. Ouerghui’s charitable contributions and commitment to genuine hospitality elevate the hotel’s reputation, embodying her dedication to integrity and setting a stellar example for her colleagues. NADIA OUERGHUI Director of housekeeping, Millennium Place Barsha Heights Hotel & Apartments Nishith Patel has made significant contributions to pre-opening projects, notably leading Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa and Waldorf Astoria Ras al Khaimah. He has showcased adaptability by assuming leadership roles during personnel absences and pursued various training opportunities to enhance his skills. Patel’s commitment to efficiency and sustainability is evident through initiatives like the War on Plastic campaign. His leadership drove projects such as MEP and HVAC upgrades, improving diversity in the department, and promoting team well-being through programs like Thrive@ Hilton. Patel’s contributions have greatly impacted the success of Hilton Ras Al Khaimah. NISHITH PATEL Executive housekeeper, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort Nizar Al Mohammad has spearheaded transformative initiatives, emphasising talent development and sustainability. He has implemented energy-efficient technologies and waste management strategies, reducing our environmental impact. Water-saving technologies and staff/guest education has further minimised the hotel’s carbon footprint. Under his leadership, cleanliness and service ratings soared, with notable promotions highlighting his commitment to excellence. His sustainability efforts earned the hotel the Green Globe laundry certification. Al Mohammad’s dedication to hygiene and staff involvement has garnered him recognition, maintaining a remarkable 95 percent colleague engagement score over 15 years. NIZAR AL MOHAMMAD Executive housekeeper, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Noushad Kurudissery’s hospitality journey has been characterised by notable achievements and relentless pursuit of growth. He has received the prestigious Above and Beyond trophy within the Wasl Hilton Cluster and achieved outstanding scores in Hilton Quality Assurance and SALT surveys, exceeding cleanliness targets. NOUSHAD KURUDISSERY Housekeeping manager, Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 41 Power List Paulo Garcia has earned the title Executive Housekeeper of the Year for 2023 across all nine Rove hotels, praised for his teamwork and problem-solving skills. He upholds ROVE culture through comprehensive training and regular inspections, maintaining a high cleanliness score on booking.com. Garcia fosters guest-centric experiences through staff training and innovative tools like Dyson Vacuums and Go Audit application. His sustainability initiatives include eco-friendly amenities and waste reduction programs, achieving a 40 percent recycling rate in 2023. Notably, he replaced plastic with glass bottles and piloted paperless initiatives. Garcia’s dedication ensures cleanliness standards, guest satisfaction, and environmental responsibility. PAULO GARCIA DIONISIO Executive housekeeper, Rove at the Park Pierre Renno boasts 16 years of experience, starting as a supervisor at InterContinental Phoenicia in Beirut. He has earned recognition, such as Training Manager of the Year and Manager of the Quarter and has facilitated training programs, which have enhanced service quality. He led environmental initiatives, eliminating plastic usage and establishing the SIRA Certification Program. He has also spearheaded guest amenity promotion and completed the Perfect Room Program. Pradeep Vadlamudi efficiently managed operations at Expo Village 05 Residence, opening over 500 rooms in just two months. He led sustainability efforts, introducing cross-training programs and eliminating plastic, resulting in cost savings and charitable contributions. Vadlamudi’s strategic measures enhanced room turnover by 10 percent. reduced guest request closing time, and improved overall cleanliness in his hotel by 20 percent. PIERRE RENNO Senior director of housekeeping, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay PRADEEP VADLAMUDI Executive housekeeper, Hyde Dubai Rafiq Pradhan started as a room attendant at Abu Dhabi EDITION in 2018, and he swiftly rose to supervisor. Later, at SLS Hotel Dubai, he progressed from HSK supervisor to assistant manager within seven months, and then to housekeeping manager. Joining DoubleTree by Hilton Business Bay, he maintained top cleanliness scores, leading to its ranking as the cleanest among DoubleTree brands and the third cleanest among all Hilton hotels in the country by January 2024. Engaged in career development programs, he has fostered talent, with team members ascending to roles like supervisors and assistant HK manager. His efforts notably elevated cleanliness ratings on platforms like booking.com. RAFIQ PRADHAN Housekeeping manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Business Bay 42 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Power List Ram Chena boasts over 15 years of experience in managing housekeeping operations across international brands. His role involves overseeing day-to-day operations, team development, and ensuring quality standards compliance. He is an active member of various professional associations and recently completed an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management and has received multiple accolade along the way. Chena’s initiatives include championing sustainability, implementing cost-saving measures, and enhancing guest experiences through innovative programs. His leadership philosophy emphasises employee development and fostering a culture of excellence. RAM CHENA Director of housekeeping, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas Ramniwas Dukiya has advanced his career through training and leadership roles, notably managing entire properties. Achievements include completing Hilton Elevate 2 training, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. He maintains exceptional cleanliness standards and his strategic approach is evident in the 76 percent Salt score with 15 percent YoY growth. Rijo Joseph’s philanthropic efforts, including donating over 1,500 linens to charity, reflect his commitment to community impact. He successfully secured an outsourced laundry contract, enhancing operational efficiency. During Housekeeping Week 2023, Joseph recognised outstanding team members, fostering a culture of excellence. His leadership led to a perfect score in LQA audits and significant cost savings through innovative training initiatives. RAMNIVAS DUKIYA Housekeeping leader, Hilton Garden Inn Al Mina RIJO JOSEPH Cluster executive housekeeper, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli, Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli and Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks Ruwan Kumara’s leadership in housekeeping has been transformative, emphasising innovation, guest satisfaction, staff development, and sustainability. Initiatives like random room inspections and the Wow Moment program have elevated service quality and guest experiences. Kumara’s focus on feedback and multi-tasking training has empowered his team, fostering agility and skill development. Notably, his sustainability efforts, including a water bottling plant and eco-friendly practices, showcase environmental consciousness and cost- effectiveness. Through strategic initiatives like room upselling, Kumara has demonstrated financial acumen. Overall, his multifaceted approach has created an efficient, guest-centric, sustainable department, reflecting his commitment to excellence and leadership. RUWAN KUMARA Executive housekeeper, Dusit Thani DubaiAPRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 43 Power List Sawsen Ouriemmi’s ascent in housekeeping management is marked by a commitment to excellence, inspiring leadership, and a focus on environmental sustainability. Through roles of increasing responsibility, she fosters a culture of accountability and achieves outstanding results. Her meticulous attention to detail shines in coordinating high-profile events and maintaining exceptional service standards, earning accolades from clients and guests. Ouriemmi’s adept budget management ensures cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Her dedication to reducing plastic usage reflects her environmental stewardship. SWASEN OURIEMMI Executive Housekeeper, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Under Sheeja Sasidharan’s housekeeping leadership, this 49-year-old hotel has thrived, maintaining and enhancing guest experiences. With 288 rooms, 16 F&B outlets, and 12 meeting spaces, cleanliness remains a priority, evident in high guest survey scores, including a remarkable 8.94/10 cleanliness score in 2023. Achieving a 98 percent cleanliness score in the Mystery Brand Audit 2023 highlights exceptional performance. The Health Club and Laundry department saw profitability rise in 2023, attributed to strategic initiatives and leadership, as well as fostering great team spirit. SHEEJA SASIDHARAN Executive housekeeper, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Sevgi Ozturk’s illustrious 27-year career in hospitality showcases exemplary leadership, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence. In her current role, she has transformed the department into the most efficient in the hotel. Recognised as the Cleaning Champion for Sheraton and Marriott Council of Experts, her relentless pursuit of cleanliness and guest satisfaction sets her apart. Ozturk’s leadership fosters a highly capable and engaged workforce, resulting in reduced turnover and exceptional Guest Voice Cleanliness scores. Her commercial acumen ensures strategic execution within budget constraints. Sevgi’s recent achievements include improvements in Guest Voice Cleanliness, rooms’ profitability, uniform redesign and succession planning. SEVGI OZTURK Director of housekeeping, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel SIVAKUMAR PALANIYAPPAN Executive Housekeeper, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Sivakumar Palaniyappan has demonstrated exceptional leadership at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, Qatar, and other prestigious properties. As executive housekeeper, he achieved a 96.85 percent cleanliness score and increased the female workforce ratio by 40 percent. His internal succession plan resulted in a 100 percenr talent promotion rate, too. At Niyama Private Islands, Maldives, he ensured smooth pre-opening operations and spearheaded sustainability projects, winning the Outstanding Sustainability Award in 2018.44 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Power List Sreekanth Vanga brings 18 years of hospitality expertise from prestigious hotels like JW Marriott Marquis, Waldorf Astoria, and Fairmont Jaipur. Recognised as Leader of the Year at The Address Dubai Mall in 2017, his achievements include achieving Five Star status at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai in 2019. At Sheraton Grand Dubai, his team won Department of the Year in 2023. His initiatives have driven guest satisfaction, surpassing cleanliness and guest appreciation goals. Collaborating on sustainability efforts, he eliminated single-use plastic and implemented water conservation measures. Amidst room renovations, he ensured guest comfort and exceeded sales targets, showcasing his integral role in the hotel’s success. SREEKANTH VANGA Executive housekeeper, Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai Subhojit Banerjee brings over 22 years of industry experience, overseeing a team of 500 and managing 1,544 rooms, 35 restaurants, and Aquaventure Waterpark. His leadership fosters excellence, resulting in a motivated team achieving high cleanliness and efficiency scores. Subhojit integrates best practices, ensuring Atlantis remains a hospitality benchmark. Recognised as Director of the Year in 2022, his commitment extends to sustainability, achieving Earth Check Silver Certification and implementing recycling programs. Initiatives include innovative technologies and personalised guest experiences, optimising operations and enhance guest satisfaction. SUBHOIJT BANERJEE Director, Housekeeping, Atlantis, The Palm Sugumar Muthukrishnan’s journey at Grand Hyatt Dubai began in 2008 as a room attendant, progressing through roles like storekeeper and floor supervisor, showcasing leadership qualities. Promoted to assistant manager housekeeping in 2017, he managed VIP arrivals and payroll. His dedication during the pandemic earned him the role of assistant housekeeping manager in 2021, overseeing sanitation protocols and training staff. Leading the renovation project in 2023, Muthukrishnan’s inventory management ensured smooth transitions, achieving exceptional cleanliness scores and quick room turnovers. His handling of operational challenges and personalised guest relations make him a valued team member, blending professionalism with care. SUGUMAR MUTHUKRISHNAN Assistant housekeeping manager, Grand Hyatt Dubai With over 15 years at Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Sudarshi Hewa, excels in leadership and dedication, securing the highest LQA score. Her supportiveness, friendly demeanour, and pursuit of excellence are evident, leading initiatives like the new uniform launch. She has proven innovative and reliable, participating in training and pre-opening projects. SUDARSHI HEWA Executive housekeeper, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island ResortAPRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 45 Power List With over a decade of experience, Sunil Bhaskar has held various roles in esteemed hotels like Leela Kempinski Bangalore and Al Manshar Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Kuwait. Notable positions include assistant housekeeper at Salalah Rotana Resorts, Oman, and housekeeping supervisor at Oryx Rotana Doha, Qatar. Demonstrating proficiency in managing housekeeping and laundry operations, they contributed to the success of establishments like Salalah Rotana Resort and The Leela Palace Bangalore. Similarly, Bhaskar has excelled in leadership, budgeting, staff development, and operational efficiency at renowned hotels like The St. Regis Marriott International and Rotana Hotels. SUNIL BHASKAR Executive housekeeper, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi Suresh Khadka, an experienced executive housekeeper with over 21 years at IHG, has shown exceptional leadership and achieved remarkable results. His focus on guest and colleague satisfaction yielded impressive scores, with a 95.11 percent cleanliness rating and 88 percent colleague satisfaction in 2023. He has led initiatives enhancing overall hotel experience, resulting in excellent IHG Loyalty Program and cleanliness scores. Swarup Kumar Sahu, a seasoned hospitality professional with over 12 years of experience, is known for his commitment to quality, he achieved a flawless cleanliness score in the Wyndham Audit 2023, even during high occupancy periods. His leadership fosters a culture of quality, innovation, and sustainability, evident in initiatives like eco-friendly practices and staff development programs. SURESH KHADKA Executive housekeeper, InterContinental Muscat SWARUP KUMAR SAHU Cluster assistant executive housekeeper, Ramada by Wyndham Beach Hotel Ajman and Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche Usham Devi, a hospitality veteran with 14 years at Hyatt, excels in upholding brand standards. As a Hyatt Train the Trainer program pioneer, she obtained housekeeping training certification within three years. Her expertise as an auditor/ mystery shopper ensured flawless brand standard adherence across luxury properties in India and Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi. Devi’s leadership yielded a remarkable 98 percent cleanliness score, surpassing targets, and obtaining OSHAD certification underscored her commitment to workplace safety. Her dedication enhances operational efficiency, fosters a positive work culture, and ensures exceptional guest experiences. Devi’s initiative and meticulous attention to detail have been pivotal to the hotel’s success and reputation. USHAM DEVI Housekeeping manager, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi46 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 Power List Vanaja Lal brings over 20 years of international housekeeping expertise. Certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, she’s renowned for her detail-oriented leadership. She received a Marriott Edge Regional Award for Best Housekeeper and played a key role in three hotel renovations, including W Dubai - Mina Seyahi’s pre-opening phase. Lal’s initiatives have significantly improved cleanliness scores, increased associate engagement and reduced staff turnover. She champions sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices like eliminating single-use plastics and introducing environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals. Her dedication to enhancing guest experiences led to an upscale in-room amenities review and refurbishments. VANAJA LAL Complex director of housekeeping, Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Waterpark With a diverse background in hospitality spanning Lebanon, Qatar and the UAE, Vanessa Mohasseb, excels as housekeeping manager at ME Dubai. Beginning as a receptionist, she transitioned to housekeeping roles, displaying a hunger for growth and earning a bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management & Tourism. At ME Dubai, she implements comprehensive training programs and demonstrates exceptional organisational skills. Vinod Kumar's innovative sustainability initiatives led to a 10 percent reduction in energy consumption and a 15 percent decrease in costs and waste through eco-friendly practices. He elevated guest satisfaction with a 9.1 cleanliness rating on Booking.com and achieved a perfect cleanliness score in the FORM Hotel Audit 2022. He also spearheads community welfare efforts and green initiatives. VANESSA MOHASSEB Housekeeping manager, ME Dubai Hotel VINOD KUMAR Housekeeping manager, FORM Hotel Dubai Al Jaddaf Vikash Vijayan’s exemplary leadership has driven talent development and resulted in nine individuals achieving career goals and four promotions. Notably, he maintained high team motivation, improving the hotel’s Trip Advisor ranking from 64th to 40th by 2022’s end. Despite resource constraints, Vijayan excelled during international events, ensuring nearly 100 percent occupancy amidst high footfall. He introduced deep cleaning for 499 guest rooms, reupholstered pool deck furniture, and implemented sustainable residential amenities, aligning with new brand standards. Under his guidance, the department received the GM award, achieved an 87 percent completion rate in training, and notably, a 97. percent cleanliness rating from BSA. VISAKH VIJAYAN Director of style, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 47 Power List Wael Alkhadraa’s leadership role has involved overseeing nine properties in EMEA and spearheading transformative initiatives like the SIRA program and the Perfect Room Programme, enhancing productivity and guest satisfaction. Alkhadraa’s efforts in talent development saw him nurture three directors from room attendants. At Raffles, his leadership led to significant performance improvements, reflected in an impressive CES score rise to 93.9/100 and an LQA result of 94.8 percent. Initiatives like sustainable bed linen tracking and a streamlined message box system underscore his commitment to excellence and sustainability. WAEL ALKHADRAA Director of housekeeping, Raffles The Palm Dubai In his current role, Zaw Lin Hmoo introduced a family room concept with kids’ tent and organic amenities that boosted guest attraction and room revenue. He also spearheaded eco-friendly initiatives, such as eco-spa teenager amenities, plastic-free products and the use of environmentally friendly chemicals. Technological efficiency was enhanced with the Room Expeditor application to reduce carbon footprint and improve room attendant productivity. He also fosters strong team engagement, achieving high colleague survey scores and low turnover rates. ZAW LIN HMOO Director of housekeeping, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Younus Khan’s leadership is marked by his dedication to developing talent and fostering excellence within his team. Over the past year, his effective training strategies led to the promotion of two team members, and his focus on morale and productivity resulted in one colleague winning the employee of the year award. His department achieved high approval ratings in colleague satisfaction surveys. Under his guidance, the hotel received exceptional guest ratings, with significant improvements in ReviewPro and Booking.com scores. Khan has implemented sustainable practices, renovated guest rooms, and optimised operational efficiency, leading to substantial cost savings and increased revenue generation for the housekeeping department. YOUNUS KHAN Executive Housekeeper, Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah ZHENNIA CHENG Director of housekeeping/ residences operations, InterContinental Doha Beach and Spa & InterContinental Doha Residences In her 23-year tenure in the Middle East, Zhennia Cheng has worked with talents who ascended to top industry roles in luxury hotels, emphasising team inspiration and leadership. She prioritises leaving a lasting impact beyond personal achievements, earning commendations for hosting dignitaries in various properties she has managed. Upholding high standards, she has earned a reputable industry standing, entrusted with challenging projects like hotel renovations and brand establishment. In 2023, her team achieved high cleanliness scores and Green Key accreditation.48 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / APRIL 2024 The Barceló Hotel Group has expanded its portfolio in Asia with the grand opening of the Barceló Coconut Island hotel. Positioned on the island known locally as Koh Maprao, just 500 metres off the eastern coastline of Phuket, this recently refurbished fi ve star resort off ers guests a 24-hour taxi service, meaning they can switch between serenity and Phuket’s vibrant off erings. Set on the beachfront setting with views of Phang Nga Bay, the resort has 274 rooms, including 120 two- to fi ve-bedroom villas. Amenities include three swimming pools, tropical gardens whjere yoga and pilates take place, and a spa with a Turkish bath, sauna, and an extensive menu of massages and treatment. There’s a fi tness area, too, two tennis courts and an assortment of water sports facilities. CF&B includes restaurant and cocktail bar Koko, Kabang, specialising in Thai and Asian delicacies, the Italian and Medi- terranean-inspired Kucina and Laku Beach Club. The resort also off ers personalised culinary journeys, either within the comfort of guest rooms or on the beach. In addition to its leisure off erings, Barceló Coconut Island is equipped with several fully-appointed meeting rooms, accom- modating up to 160 guests. Checking out Barceló Coconut Island hotel Barceló Hotel Group opens its fi rst resort in Thailand, joining its other Asian hotels in Indonesia and MaldivesChecking Out APRIL 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 49Next >