What do you find most inspiring about working in hospitality?
I am particularly inspired by the Palazzo Versace hotel brand. I have been involved in this project from the ground up and in all aspects of development, design, branding, guest experience and operational input. Dealing with a fashion house adds another dimension to the experience for hoteliers that I just love. The hospitality industry has such great people energy and I am truly inspired by working with a multicultural team with diverse skill sets that come together to create memorable experiences. Guest and team experience is at the heart of hospitality and requires passion and commitment.
And how do you then inspire your hotel staff to ensure a quality guest experience?
We take a very holistic view to inspiring our team. We fundamentally believe that a happy and engaged team is necessary to provide great service to our guests and each other. At the heart of our learning & development and how we lead and live each day is the Whole Person Paradigm – great leaders see people as whole - body, heart, mind and spirit and we work to unleash their full creative potential.
– Great leaders
– Great team
– Great results
"We live and breathe equality in the workplace. We share, we care and we collaborate. Every position is critical and equally important to making a difference to our guest experience."
Can you select one USP that makes your hotel stand out in your locale?
Palazzo Versace Dubai is a modern day palace that has remained true in terms of quality and design to the palaces of a bygone era. No expense has been spared to ensure authenticity including Italian artisans with generations of experience. The unique element is that everything in terms of design is steeped in the heritage of the Versace brand. The only fashion house that has theatre, fashion and home collections before hotel. Wherever you are in the hotel there is a story, a connection and what surprises many first-time visitors is the harmony of design, the elegance and the serenity, the sense of place.
Can you select one USP that makes your hotel stand out in your locale?
Palazzo Versace Dubai is a modern day palace that has remained true in terms of quality and design to the palaces of a bygone era. No expense has been spared to ensure authenticity including Italian artisans with generations of experience. The unique element is that everything in terms of design is steeped in the heritage of the Versace brand. The only fashion house that has theatre, fashion and home collections before hotel. Wherever you are in the hotel there is a story, a connection and what surprises many first-time visitors is the harmony of design, the elegance and the serenity, the sense of place.
What do you love most about your locale?
Our location, Dubai Creek, provides a beautiful view and is at the heart of Dubai’s heritage. We are the only city hotel to be on natural waterways, with a beautiful boardwalk for long walks and a marina at our doorstep. There is great synergy in the meeting of Dubai heritage with Versace heritage.Culture Village as a location is about culture and art, a perfect destination for a Palazzo Versace Hotel. Jameel Art Centre opens on the 11th of November 2018 and is a short stroll from the hotel. Also, the much-awaited Mohammad Bin Rashid library opens Q1 2019 and is only minutes away on the boardwalk.
What do you predict will be the most formative hospitality or luxury travel trend over the next five years?
I believe, people are looking for unique, authentic experiences – the chance to live “real” elements of the destination they visit whether that be food, culture, heritage, shopping, or activities. Comfort and warmth in their hotel experiences – a touch of hand in a world that is now driven by technology. The need to connect will grow over the next five years. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in the hotel game? (Something you would pass on to a budding hotel GM) Today’s peacock is tomorrow’s feather duster. Be the best version of yourself.
