How did you know hospitality was your calling, and how has the industry changed over the four decades of your career? 

I come from a hospitality family and grew up in a hotel. It was natural for me to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather and father and pursue a career in hospitality. When I was young, I started out as a pastry chef. As I grew older, I transitioned into operations, sales & marketing, and eventually into resort management.

In the last four decades, the internet and OTA booking platforms have transformed not just the hospitality industry, but all major industries. While operations have become easier with the help of new tools, the importance of providing excellent service remains unchanged. Hotels & resorts have evolved in appearance and amenities, offering more lifestyle, active, and relaxing options to everyone.

How do you adapt to the ever-changing hospitality trends and customer preferences to ensure the highest standards of service?

To adapt to new trends in hospitality management, it's important to stay informed through industry publications and networks. Engage with customer feedback to gain insights into changing preferences. Invest in training for staff on new technologies and customer service practices. Enhance communication with guests and personalize their experiences..

Can you tell us a bit about the Premium All-inclusive offerings at Ifuru Island Maldives? How do you think it enhances the overall guest experience? At Ifuru, we focus on providing a fun and lifestyle-oriented stay. We not only offer an all-inclusive meal plan but also ensure it's a premium all-inclusive experience. This means that all our restaurants, including the daily changing buffet, Palm Grill, and waterfront à la carte menus, are available to our guests without any additional charges.

Do you enjoy skydiving? What are some of the offerings at Ifuru which makes it the perfect dropzone?I haven't tried skydiving yet, but I'm really looking forward to trying it soon. I can say for sure that there are no better places in the world for skydiving. This is based on the experiences of our guests and the jumps we've had here in the past years. Floating down to one of the four drop zones, you can enjoy the beautiful blue, clear waters, and coral. What more could anyone ask for in one of the best resort locations in the world, offering activities all year round?

If you weren’t in the hospitality industry, what other career path would you have chosen?When I was young and up until my mid- 20s, I never considered not working in hotels. However, for a brief period, I did contemplate becoming a doctor.