interview Bahrainthismonth.com June 2024 23 network of connections has enriched my career immensely. As the General Manager of Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain, what do you consider to be your primary goals? Initially, our focus is on building a dedicated and motivated team. It’s through our colleagues that we can deliver exceptional guest experiences. We’re also working on creating unique guest experiences, or what I like to call ‘wow moments,’ that go beyond expectations. Another goal is to activate more activities within the hotel to ensure guests have a comprehensive and engaging resort experience, given our distance from Manama. How important is having a diverse and dynamic team in your operations? Diversity is crucial. We purposefully seek a mix of backgrounds, genders, nationalities and experiences. For me, hiring is about attitude, motivation and passion. Skills can be trained, but a positive attitude and a sense of humour are essential. Being aware of global events is also important, as it helps our staff connect with international and knowledgeable guests. The property recently unveiled its new brand identity. What are the key elements of growth that the property will undergo as it takes on this new venture? The Jumeirah brand has always been about warmth, which is reflected in our updated logo featuring three flames symbolising generosity, joy and warmth. We aim to bring these elements to life in all guest interactions. Over the next few months and years, we’ll be focusing on how we can infuse these values into every aspect of our guest experience, from check-in procedures to dining experiences. What are your thoughts on the hospitality sector in Bahrain? How does this property diversify in a competitive environment? Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain is uniquely positioned as a true resort destination on the island. Unlike any other property here, we offer a complete disconnection from the hustle of Manama, creating a bubble of relaxation and luxury. Our extensive facilities, including multiple swimming pools, a private beach, an award-winning 2.5km2 spa, and diverse dining options, set us apart. We’re also the latest five-star luxury hotel in Bahrain, offering unparalleled experiences. The property recently launched the Mar Y Mas concept. What makes the experience so special and what can visitors expect in terms of entertainment and dining? Mar Y Mas is an adult-only experience at our infinity pool, available every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It features a live DJ from 2pm, a mix of Peruvian and Mexican cuisine bringing together vibrant flavours from both cultures, and evening fire shows. This concept is designed to provide a unique and vibrant atmosphere for our adult guests, offering a distinct and engaging experience. Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain has a stunning beach and sprawling pools. What can the people of Bahrain and visitors expect at the property over summer as temperatures rise? All our swimming pools are temperaturecontrolled, ensuring a refreshing dip even in the hottest weather. Additionally, our location on the south-west coast means we benefit from a cool sea breeze, making the temperatures feel more pleasant. Our 800m beach also provides a great escape, and we continuously offer a variety of activities to keep guests entertained and comfortable during the summer. After achieving great success in the hospitality sector, what do you consider to be essential personality traits for being successful in the field and what advice would you offer to prospective professionals? Flexibility, open-mindedness and the ability to adapt quickly are essential traits. Empathy is crucial as we constantly interact with people. Passion for hospitality is also key; without it, the long hours and demanding nature of the job can be challenging. For young professionals, I recommend gaining a thorough understanding of hotel operations, starting from the ground up, and learning how different departments work together to create a seamless guest experience. Resilience and the ability to stay motivated are also important, some guests can be quite demanding. When your tenure here eventually ends, what do you want your legacy at the property to have been? I’m focused on creating an iconic resort experience here in Bahrain along with my amazing team. Our goal is to establish Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain as a premier destination in the GCC, known for its exceptional facilities and guest experiences. We’re continuously working on improving and innovating to achieve this vision. Scan to watch the full interview
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