After dedicating 14 years of loyal service to the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, Hussain Shahid has risen through the ranks from Director of Human Resources to his new role as Resort Manager. His journey is a testament to his diverse skill set in hotel management and his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Reflecting on his early days at Kandooma, Shahid describes a sense of belonging that quickly enveloped him upon joining the team. Surprisingly, hotels were not initially his intended career path. Growing up in the Maldives, he aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps and work in a government role. However, fate had different plans. Shahid’s teenage years saw him venture into the world of music, performing at resorts and entertaining guests. Little did he know that these experiences would shape his future career. Recalling those joyful memories, Shahid confesses, “I didn’t realize at the time that resorts would become my career one day.”

As life progressed and Shahid started a family, he found that his government salary fell short of meeting their needs. Seeking better opportunities, he turned to the hospitality industry, where his professional experience quickly propelled him into a managerial position. The allure of better pay and the satisfaction of making a difference in guests’ lives became the driving forces behind his transition.

For Shahid, true job satisfaction lies in helping guests achieve their dreams. He considers being part of a guest’s “once in a lifetime” experience or witnessing the fulfillment of their aspirations as the pinnacle of his role. Similarly, he takes great pride in nurturing and guiding his team members, fostering their professional growth and witnessing their success.

Feedback from guests also plays a significant role in Shahid’s daily routine. Memories of past visitors and their positive remarks inspire him to continually improve. He believes that genuine concern for people and the desire to excel are fundamental in fueling his passion for the industry.

When discussing leadership qualities, Shahid emphasizes the importance of patience as his top attribute. Respect, humility, composure, active listening, and resilience are additional qualities he embodies as a leader. These traits guide him in shaping a harmonious work environment and effectively addressing operational challenges.

Shahid regards his promotion to Resort Manager at Kandooma as a significant step toward achieving his ultimate career goal. He eagerly anticipates the increased responsibilities, particularly in the culinary division. His proximity to the team and involvement in problem-solving and overall operational aspects of the property will allow him to make a more substantial impact.

Recognized as a role model in the Maldives, Shahid offers valuable advice to aspiring young professionals entering the industry. He emphasizes the importance of education and experience, recommending a high school education followed by a Diploma in Hospitality. Gaining practical experience in a reputable resort, whether local or international, is essential before pursuing a university degree or an MBA to advance in management roles. Shahid also advocates for international exposure to broaden one’s perspective.

Above all, Shahid emphasizes the significance of wholeheartedly committing to each job and conducting oneself professionally. He emphasizes that even after leaving a position, one’s reputation will endure, with others remembering the positive impact and work ethic displayed. This mindset, he believes, will pave the way for future career growth.

With his sights set on managing large-scale resort operations, Shahid aspires to be recognized as a distinguished operational leader. Through his dedication and incremental steps, it is evident that he will soon achieve his goal and continue making a lasting impact in the industry he loves.