Hotelier Middle East Awards 2023: The stories behind all the winners

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CONCIERGE AND GUEST SERVICES PERSON OF THE YEAR
Roger Geadah, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

With 10 years of concierge experience in Paris and eight years in Dubai, Roger Geadah has honed his skills at several luxury properties including Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Al Qasr and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Geadah’s fluency in English, Arabic and French, along with his outgoing personality, has enabled this leader to develop a strong global network to help him assist guests anytime, anywhere.
Awarded the title of manager in 2021, Geadah has been a member of Les Clefs d’Or since 2008. During his tenure at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, he has welcomed and mentored a concierge team that delivers bespoke service to the hotel’s highly discerning international guests.

Highly Commended
Alia Kyzy, Ananrata World Islands Resort Dubai

HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Vanaja Lal, Destination Mina Seyahi

Vanaja Lal has over 20 years of international experience in heading the functions of the Housekeeping department. As a detail-oriented leader, she has grown a reputation as a housekeeping process consultant and a project specialist with pre-opening experience. With a positive culture, Vanaja’s team scored high on positive sentiment in the workplace, proven by her ability to reduce the turnover of housekeeping staff within the past 12 month-period.
Vanaja created an environment that allows individuals to thrive and be promoted from within.

Highly Commended
Mohamed Al-Qarhi, Pullman Zamzam Makkah Hotel

HOUSEKEEPER OF THE YEAR
Dilshan Madhusanka, Premier Inn Hotel Dubai International Airport

Dilshan Madhusanka is one of Premier Inn’s in-house superstars, putting his heart and soul into his every day work – and taking on additional responsibilities to ensure guests’ happiness.

As well as the usual deep cleaning process, Dilshan took ownership of fully re-grouting guest room bathrooms: a tough job which involves removing hardened grouting before refilling with a fresh application. For over a month, he spent eight hours a day on this project to complete 70 rooms so far. Dilshan’s unwavering efforts have resulted in better bathrooms, his work leading to cost savings as outsourcing was not required.

Highly Commended
Shuruq Almoayri, Turtle Bay Hotel, The Red Sea

SPA PERSON OF THE YEAR
Deborah Molloy, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

Deborah Molloy is the force behind Nikki Spa’s transformation into a ground-breaking wellbeing haven. With 20 years of industry experience, her passion for innovation and elevating the spa experience knows no bounds.

Her dedication to creating unique and transformative experiences has set Nikki Spa on a path of innovation. Malloy’s dedication to mentorship and building strong relationships have garnered her the reputation of being ‘born to work in the spa industry’.Her relentless dedication to creating a welcoming atmosphere is a testament to her commitment to providing an exceptional experience for visitors and colleagues.

Highly Commended
Laura Grosbois, Sofitel Dubai The Palm

FITNESS AND RECREATION PERSON OF THE YEAR
Kristoff Lagaza, DoubleTree by Hilton Business Bay

Born in Manila, Kristoff Lagaza’s dreams were become a beacon of help and health for those in need. He wished to be a doctor, but the prohibitive costs of medical education in the Philippines pushed him towards another path: nursing.

After a spell in nursing, he switched roles to become a physical therapist and fate took him to Hilton, where he began as a fitness instructor at the Marjan Island Resort and Spa pre-opening.

Today, Kristoff continues his journey as an Assistant Manager. His story is a testament to dedication, empathy, and resilience. Through his unwavering commitment to health and well-being, he has made a remarkable difference in countless lives, inspiring colleagues to never let adversity stand in the way of our dreams.

Highly Commended
Sulaiman Al Zakwani, Anantara Jebel Akhdar Resort

HR PERSON OF THE YEAR
Sam Varghese, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

Sam Varghese has 23 years of senior Human Resources management experience in his career. He is described as a driven and ambitious professional who likes to continuously learn. He continues to pursue new endeavours on his journey and career goals and is a definite asset who adds tremendous value to the hotel.

Varghese’s conduct defines his success, being a natural in the HR field and leadership execution, he has much knowledge to extend to the world.

Highly Commended
Abdullah Alammari, FRS Hotels Makkah

FINANCE PERSON OF THE YEAR
Lokesh Swami, Media One Hotel

Lokesh Swami is described as much more than a Director of Finance, but also an advisor who guides the leadership team to ensure their departments are contributing to the overall benefit of the business. An unconventional thinker, he is a change advocator who is constantly looking at smarter ways to operate the business, whilst embracing the need to adapt the business to a more sustainable, environmentally kind operation – even if this comes at an additional cost.

His exceptional financial acumen, strategic thinking, leadership, and dedication to ethical practices have left a mark on his property.

Highly Commended
Goutham Reddy, Zabeel House by Jumeirah The Greens

PROCUREMENT PERSON OF THE YEAR
Jude Jonathan, FIVE Palm Jumeirah

Jude Jonathan joined FIVE as Assistant Purchasing Manager in 2021. Under his guidance, FIVE’s commitment to sustainability is evident through his team’s efforts in sourcing cost-effective and eco-friendly products. The introduction of biodegradable straws, bamboo disposables, and sustainable dry amenities like toothbrushes, vanity kits, sewing kits, and shower caps for the rooms showcases the hotel’s dedication to being a sustainability-focused entity.

His vision for the future, including expanding the vendor pool and implementing high-value tendering practices, showcases his relentless pursuit of procurement excellence.

Highly Commended
Fika Belinda, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina

REVENUE MANAGEMENT PERSON OF THE YEAR
Andria Chetty, Taj Dubai

Andria Chetty is a dedicated hospitality professional with a track record of success in the hotel brand like Marriott, Sofitel and Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces. Her dedication to her work and her significant contributions to Taj Dubai’s success has had a significant impact on the hotel’s financial performance and overall company results.

Chetty has shown a commitment to excellence, combined with a sharp business mindset, specialising in demand forecasting, distribution management, dynamic pricing, special initiatives

Highly Commended
Ekta Bhupal, Madinat Jumeirah Dubai

SALES PERSON OF THE YEAR
Julia Paslyon, Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

Julia Paslyon’s journey in the hospitality industry spans over nine years with Radisson Hotel Group, and her experience and expertise have been instrumental in driving success across different cities. With a desire for new experiences and a passion for the dynamic and thriving city of Dubai, Paslyon joined the pre-opening team at Radisson RED in 2019. She demonstrated her ability to adapt to diverse markets, navigate challenges, and drive revenue growt and a comprehensive understanding of the sales process, combined with her exceptional leadership skills, has enabled her to lead her team and achieve remarkable results.

Highly Commended
Badr Mubarak, Shangri-La Jeddah

IT PERSON OF THE YEAR
Milbon Savio Vaz, Rixos Premium JBR

Milbon Savio Vaz has revolutionised the digital infrastructure at Rixos Premium JBR, enabling the hotel to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry.

His innovative mindset resulted in the implementation of ground-breaking initiatives in the department, elevating the organisation’s operational efficiency and competitiveness.

His project management skills, technical expertise, commitment to security and data protection, dedication to user satisfaction and innovative thinking made him an ideal candidate for the IT Person of the Year award.

Highly Commended
Rabih Mehry, Amwaj Rotana Hotel

BANQUET MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Swapnil Chavan, The Ritz-Carton, Dubai

Swapnil Chavan’s contributions, unwavering dedication, and remarkable achievements propelled The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai’s banquet operations and exemplify the core values and standards that define The Ritz-Carlton brand. In an industry where success hinges on planning, impeccable execution, and an understanding of guest expectations, Chavan consistently stands out.

His leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence have set new standards and enriched the careers of those fortunate who work alongside him.

Highly Commended
Mouhsine Elkoutari, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

HOTEL ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
Reynu Dabbas, JA Resorts & Hotels

Reynu Dabass possesses a strong background in engineering, enabling her to effectively resolve pertinent issues in large-scale commercial, hotel, and high-end luxury residential properties.

Dabass has achieved outstanding results both technically and financially, with several notable achievements to her credit. One of her accomplishments includes overseeing the successful installation of two new Reverse Osmosis Plants across JA Resorts & Hotel, leading to a significant reduction in water consumption.

Dabbas believes that the future depends on current business practices and capabilities to ensure a better tomorrow for future generations.

Highly Commended
Erich Theodore Zahrt, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

SAFETY & SECURITY PERSON OF THE YEAR
Mark Nader, Mondrian Doha

Mark Nader is responsible for the risk management and loss prevention of Mondrian Doha’s stakeholders and its assets.

Since joining the team in January 2021, he has delivered the highest levels of success. During FIFA Arab Cup 2021 and FIFA World Cup 2022, he implemented dynamic Risk Management and contingency planning to safeguard an average of 1,500 guests a day and a total of 480 staff on duty covering one million safety man-hours per year without any loss time injury, along with the safety of the buildings and its assets.

Highly Commended
Sidiq Butt, DoubleTree by Hilton, Business Bay

IN-HOUSE MARKETING PERSON OF THE YEAR
Dylan Abrahams, W Dubai – The Palm

Since joining W Dubai – The Palm in August 2022, Dylan Abrahams has played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of successful marketing campaigns to promote the hotel, its F&B venues and spa facilities and amenities.
Alongside his team, Abrahams reimagined the hotel’s concept to reinvigorate the brand and elevate the hotel with a completely new direction and narrative.

Dynamic and results-driven, he has a deep understanding of the local market and a keen eye for trends. He has continuously identified opportunities for the hotel to innovate and stand out in one of the most competitive markets.

Highly Commended
Anita Drahos-Nambiar, IHG Hotels at Festival City

IN-HOUSE PR PERSON OF THE YEAR
Farah Palia, FIVE Holdings

Farah Palia, backed by strong media relationships, excels in crafting brand and luxury lifestyle-centric content creation strategies, while also leading multiple teams. Palia collaborates closely with key figures within FIVE, especially CEO of FIVE Hospitality, Aloki Batra, in order to contribute significantly to the transformative business and cultural change ambitions.

Highly Commended
Hamida Bouchennouf, Holiday Inn Algiers Cherega Tower

UNSUNG HERO OF THE YEAR
Aruna Kamble, Crowne Plaza & Holiday Inn Al Thuraya

Aruna Kamble was in charge of the linen and uniform room just 18 months ago, having started off as a public area cleaner. But due to hard work and dedication, she has become a role model in IHG Hotels & Resorts.

Now a laundry manager, Kamble has revitalised laundry operations with her out-of-the-box thinking. Her strategy is focused on improving financial results and quality results and guest recognition. Her initiatives have improved processes and reduced expenses.

Kamble works relentlessly in the background with utmost sincerity and dedication.

Highly Commended
Luke Reeves, Gastronomy, Atlantis The Royal, Dubai

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
Emma Banks, Hilton

With an acute understanding that the food industry contributes 30 percent of global carbon emissions across the value chain, Emma Banks is intent on using her to drive meaningful scalable impact, with a sense of urgency necessitated by a climate emergency. A passionate advocate of sustainability best practice, she is one of the most influential hospitality leaders in the Middle East. In her EMEA wide role at Hilton, Banks is a champion of the company’s Travel With Purpose ESG strategy through the 1000-plus restaurants and bar operations that she oversees – where changes can have extraordinary impact.

Highly Commended
Armand Thieblemont, Six Senses Zighy Bay

YOUNG HOTELIER OF THE YEAR
Sara Almarghalani, Turtle Bay Resort, The Red Sea

Sara Almarghalani initially set out to become an academic and pursued a bachelor’s degree in linguistics. However, things changed in late 2017 with an unexpected interview for a role as a banquet coordinator with a local hotel group. This position kick-started what would become her passion for hospitality. After working in the Maldives, Sara rushed home to play her part in Saudi Vision 2030 with Red Sea Global.

In just two years with the company, she has received several recognitions and accolades for her high performance – including a promotion to Front Office Manager to oversee the front-of-house operations. Her journey from being the first Saudi citizen in the Maldives’ hospitality industry to becoming a pivotal member of RSG’s regenerative tourism project made her stand out as the deserving winner for the Young Hotelier of the Year award.

GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR – MIDSCALE RESORT
Deborah Thomson, JA Hatta Fort Hotel

Celebrating 13 years with JA Resorts & Hotels, Deborah Thomson has been a pivotal driving force in the reinvention of JA Hatta Fort Hotel – from being a heritage hotel to an adventure hub – and is at the fore of government investment and initiatives to grow the destination. Repeat guests of JA Hatta Fort Hotel visit at least four times a year, many of them families of three generations who have become fond of Hatta and the stellar service provided by the hotel staff. Thomson is mentioned frequently in reviews, as she regularly engages with guests and is alwayson the floor with her team.

Highly Commended
Elif Yazoglu, DoubleTree by Hilton, Jumeirah Beach

GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR – MIDSCALE CITY HOTEL
James Berry, Radisson Blu Dubai Media City & Park Inn by Radisson Motor City

In the past year, James Berry has won on many fronts. His hands-on approach and exceptional ability to engage with teams at all levels have cultivated a collaborative and empowering work environment. His leadership style consistently yields remarkable results, balancing the needs of people and the business Tim Cordon, Radisson Hotel Group’s COO in the region said: “James is a superb GM. His commercial creativity has enabled him to breathe new life into older hotels and find revenue streams that other GMs would not consider.”

Highly Commended
Glenn Nobbs, Millennium Place Hotel Barsha

GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR – HIGH-END CITY HOTEL
Alexander Blair, Shangri-La Jeddah

Meet Alexander Blair, a seasoned hospitality expert with over 20 years of experience, currently at the helm of the magnificent Shangri-La Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

Blair’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by his success in opening and managing luxury hotels across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Since his appointment at Shangri-La Jeddah in February 2020, Blair has used his wealth of knowledge and expertise to create a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle destination for both Saudi locals and international travelers.

He has overseen a remarkably successful first year of operations. The hotel not only boasts some of the most lucrative results in the Kingdom but has also set a new standard for employing Saudi nationals in various operating departments, transforming Shangri-La Jeddah into an exemplary icon of progression in the hospitality industry.

Shangri-La Jeddah has introduced exceptional culinary lifestyle dining experiences in the city and has been recognised for nurturing local talent.

At Hotelier Middle East’s first annual awards event in Saudi Arabia earlier this year, the property was honoured with the Hotel Team of the Year award. Simultaneously, Awatif Al Ghamdi, Laundry Supervisor, was named the Unsung Hero of the Year.

These awards underscore Blair’s dedication to developing his team and recognizing the remarkable talents of Saudi nationals. Notably, Blair himself was awarded the coveted General Manager of the Year accolade in the annual Hotelier Middle East Awards.

When it comes to supporting the local workforce, Shangri-La Jeddah leads by example with almost 50 percent Saudization, thus ensuring that Saudi’s play an integral role in every aspect of the hotel’s operations. Blair’s genuine commitment to their professional growth has fostered an inclusive and supportive culture.

In the world of dining at Shangri-La Jeddah, each restaurant operates as a one-of-a-kind standalone concept. This approach has not only given the venues its own distinct identity but has also transformed them into highly sought-after lifestyle experiences for Jeddah’s passionate culinary connoisseurs.

Blair is known for his continuous pursuit of innovation to deliver a luxurious guest experience and to remain ahead of the latest industry trends. Drawing from his global experience, and keeping a close eye on the future, he is committed to preserving Shangri-La Jeddah as the leading luxury hotel of choice on the East Coast of the Kingdom.

Alexander Blair remains distinctly devoted to the bright future of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry by steering the team along an exciting journey as the country edges closer towards Vision 2030

Highly Commended
Mikel Ibrahim, Mondrian Doha

GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR – HIGH-END RESORT
Hanna Azzi, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

From introducing private parking spaces for Garden Villas to opening the Celebration Suite, Hanna Azzi’s leadership has left a permanent mark on his resort. Under his direction, VIP Pool Cabanas have upgraded the beach club experience, while the construction of a Hydroponic Indoor Farm demonstrates his dedication to sustainability and his forward-thinking approach to locally sourced produce.

From the pre-launch stages to his eighth year of tenure, Azzi has played an instrumental role in the resort’s success.

Azzi’s journey with the brand began in June 2015 when he played a pivotal role in the opening of Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai as the Resort Operations Manager. Now at the helm as General Manager, he has been leading the resort’s operations since 2018.
In 2023, he continues to invest resources, time, and efforts into sustainability projects. Notably, the implementation of a water bottling plant in partnership with BE WTR aligned with the Dubai Can Initiative has eliminated single-use plastic bottles, aiming to reduce plastic bottle usage by 700,000 annually.

Azzi’s journey, from the initial spark of recognition to the trail of innovative projects, showcases his dedication, drive, ambition, and pursuit of excellence. Under his leadership, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai has become a symbol of innovation, highlighting the incredible potential that can come from unwavering determination.

Highly Commended
Tom Roelens, Atlantis The Royal

HOTEL TEAM OF THE YEAR – MIDSCALE
Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

In 2020, the first Radisson RED opened in the Middle East, and is now ranked number eight for the brand worldwide.

In the past year, innovations include being the first property in the Middle East to monitor and assess air quality and gain a four star Airzones rating.

There were also collaborations with Staytus, which helped with a digital shift with smart, purpose-built marketing and communications solutions, the introduction of RADFit, Radisson Hotel Group’s in-room fitness solution. The pilot of green housekeeping, which gave guests the chance to opt out of daily housekeeping. KRUSH Brands also set up its cloud kitchen in the the hotel. There were also innovations in the NFT, eGaming and crypto fields.

Helping to make all of that (and more) happen are the dedicated team at the hotel, led by GM Stuart Birkwood.

Highly Commended
VIDA Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain

HOTEL TEAM OF THE YEAR – HIGH-END
Jumeirah Mina A’Salam

At Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, team spirit reaches every guest and member of the staff. The hotel is driven by an unwavering passion for hospitality, fuelled by our commitment to guests and team members alike. The results have exceeded expectations, with revenues and occupancy soaring year-on-year.

In 2023 the property unveiled its new look and feel with a completely new team of talent found in all corners of the globe. The team is made up of 60 nationalities, including Emirati colleagues.

There have been multiple promotions across several departments included Front Office, Engineering, Food and Beverage, Human Resources and Learning and Development.

Led by Jaime Simpson, who won GM of the Year 2022, there is a 50/50 gender balance in the leadership team and department heads, while the front of house has a 53 percent ratio of female colleagues.

Highly Commended
Mondrian Doha

BREAKOUT PROPERTY OF THE YEAR
Atlantis The Royal

After its impossible-to-miss Grand Reveal Party at the end of January, Atlantis The Royal is has gone from strength to strength.

The 43-storey resort features 231 luxury apartments, 693 hotel rooms and 102 suites, all of which offer views of the Arabian Sea and Palm Island.

All rooms feature high-end amenities from Hermès and Graff and complimentary access to Aquaventure waterpark. Guests staying in suites or signature penthouses can also enjoy an elite butler service, offering unpacking luggage, pillow selection, clothes pressing, a private resort orientation and setting up exclusive experiences. The pillow menu consists of seven different types, including cool down, memory foam for the head, memory foam for the feet, buckwheat, pregnancy and a body pillow option.

The resort is also home to 90 swimming pools, including a rooftop infinity pool on the 22nd floor, suspended 90 meters above ground level.

The luxury resort also comprises 18 new restaurants, many helmed by celebrity chefs. They include Heston Blumenthal’s Dinner by Heston, Nobu by the Beach, La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Ling Ling by Hakkasan, Estiatorio milos by Costas Spiliadis and Jaleo Dubai by José Andres.

Highly Commended
Raffles and Fairmont Doha

HOSPITALITY LEADER OF THE YEAR
Mark Kirby, Emaar Hospitality Group

As head of hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group, Mark Kirby is entrusted with running some of Dubai’s most high-profile homegrown brands, such as Address, Vida and The Palace.

Kirby is an experienced leader, with over 25 years in the industry. His portfolio includes more than 30 hotels and mixed use residences in the Ultra Luxury, Luxury, Upper Midscale and Midscale segments, covering 7,428 hotel keys and 5,610 residences.

Perhaps even more impressive than the regional expansion into Turkey, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia (and the continued growth in the UAE) is the 30-plus hotels in the pipeline.

Speaking to us previously about the group’s growth, Kirby said: “Because we’ve grown so successfully in Dubai, more and more investors are willing to help us move abroad now.

“We have got really incredible brands moving into other emirates and other parts of the world. Our goal isn’t just showing off Emirati hospitality but also the values. In everything we do, whether it’s back of house, front of house, F&B, it’s all focused on the customer.”

TRAILBLAZER OF THE YEAR
Candice D’Cruz, Marriott International

Marriott’s regional Vice President of Luxury Brands, Candice D’Cruz oversees brands such as EDITION, Luxury Collection, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton, W and JW Marriott.

That means, here in the Middle East, she has had an incredible impressive year. As luxury has become an even more important segment for Marriott, so has this region. In Saudi Arabia alone she has overseen the signing and development of some of the country’s most exciting properties.

At the time of writing, a W and JW Marriott have just been signed for NEOM’s Trojena resort.

Meanwhile, Ritz-Carlton Reserve will not only make its debut in Saudi Arabia but the whole Middle East with Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. The property will form part of The Red Sea Project and The Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh is set in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif.

Also, Situated in the district of Samhan, is The Luxury Collection in Diriyah, Riyadh. Other openings include The Jeddah EDITION, while another will open in the Red Sea and St. Regis’ at Via Riyadh and The Red Sea.

Highly Commended
Louis Abboud, Ennismore

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