Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Personal Information
Timeline
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AHMED ELSANDOBY

AHMED ELSANDOBY

Dubai,UAE

Summary

As an experienced Director of Parks & Leisure, I am passionate about creating safe, engaging, and sustainable public spaces that enhance communities' quality of life. With a strong foundation in aquatic safety, risk management, and recreation programming, I have successfully led teams and initiatives that prioritize safety while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with diverse teams and stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that drive operational efficiency, improve safety standards, and increase accessibility to recreational services. My ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on leadership has consistently resulted in award-winning parks and successful aquatic programs that cater to a wide range of demographics.

I am deeply committed to community well-being and believe that accessible recreation and well-maintained parks are essential for fostering healthy, connected communities. Integrity, collaboration, and innovation are the cornerstones of my leadership approach. I strive to lead by example, build trust, and inspire my team to exceed expectations in everything we do.

As a lifelong advocate for outdoor recreation, I am always looking for new opportunities to push the boundaries of what parks and leisure spaces can offer. My goal is to continue driving positive change, ensuring that every community has access to safe, enjoyable, and enriching recreational experiences.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work history

Senior Safety Officer

Dubai Municipality
05.2023 - 05.2025
  • Overseeing the safety and operational activities across 10 public beaches, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.
  • Managing and monitoring budget expenditures in accordance with outlined categories to ensure financial efficiency.
  • Leading a team of 140+ professionals, including skilled lifeguards, Supervisors, Assistant Operations Manager, and Operations Manager, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
  • Review and update all relevant risk assessments associated with beach operations to ensure alignment with best practices and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure the team remains proficient in the latest technology and safety rescue equipment through ongoing training and development initiatives.
  • Collaborating with third-party contractors and government entities to address safety-related issues and enhance overall operation.

Site Manager

Aqua Park Group
05.2020 - 05.2023
  • Managed the setup of Swim Lakeside, ensuring accreditation as a safe open water swim venue in collaboration with NOWCA, including timely booking system implementation.
  • Oversaw the establishment of Aqua Park Lakeside at the start of the summer season in accordance with company procedures.
  • Assisted Aqua Park Group Site Managers at multiple parks during the pre-season setup phase.
  • Delivered and documented pre-season training for all seasonal site-based employees.
  • Provided ongoing training, coaching, and performance management for the team throughout the season.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations for employees and customers by adhering to documented procedures and safe systems of work; acted promptly to manage risks and escalate issues to Directors.
  • Prepared and managed an annual site budget, securing approval from the Sites Director and adhering to financial constraints throughout the season.
  • Proactively reviewed the booking system, weather conditions, and employee schedules to optimize park safety and operations.
  • Maintained oversight of customer service administration, ensuring responses met agreed service levels.
  • Ensured adherence to maintenance schedules and completion of maintenance logs. Conducted daily and weekly checks following company procedures, liaising with the Sites Director, Aqua Park Directors, and manufacturers for necessary repairs and replacements.
  • Conducted site inspections to monitor team performance and resolve potential issues promptly, while proposing timely solutions to the Sites Director.
  • Managed the documentation of accidents and incidents per Group procedures.
  • Submitted accurate monthly payroll reports using the Rota Cloud system.
  • Completed end-of-season maintenance logs, retiring equipment as necessary.
  • Conducted end-of-season stock take for the site.
  • Finalized all administrative tasks for Swim Lakeside, including processing invoices related to open water coaching sessions.
  • Oversaw the effective dismantling of the park, ensuring all equipment repairs were executed before storage.
  • Assisted in pack-down efforts at other Aqua Park Group sites.
  • Placed approved orders for new season equipment within designated timeframes.
  • Engaged in project work related to budgets, site design, analytical tasks, and risk assessment reviews; contributed to operational planning and training design.
  • Participated in recruitment efforts and related administrative tasks.
  • Supported the Marketing Department in managing databases and sales leads.

Wellness and Retail Director

AYANA Resort and Spa Balo
02.2020 - 02.2021
  • Complex Director for 2 spas total of 70 rooms and an exotic Spa on the Rock and 3 retail shops in the complex.
  • Managing team of 120 employees.
  • Manage Operations as part of the complex guidance team.
  • Responsible for and figure out the best programs and events to offer guests that will improve their wellbeing.
  • Setting up Spa & Wellness departments concepts and policies & procedures.

Wellness Director (Pre-opening)

Jayasom Wellness Resorts
07.2018 - 02.2020
  • Opening a 15 Rooms Spa with wide facilities for both male & Female (Gym, pool, Salons).
  • Hiring a team of 28 staffs.
  • Manage Operations/ Preopening budget.
  • Responsible for and figure out the best programs and events to offer guests that will improve their wellbeing.
  • Setting up Spa & Wellness departments concepts and policies & procedures.
  • Managing ownership of Elaf group relations with the Spa operator Jayasom.

Director of Spa and Recreation (Pre-opening)

Reef Resort (Reef Island) Bahrain
07.2017 - 07.2018
  • Opening a 10 Rooms Spa with wide facilities for both male & Female (Gym, pools, kids club, Salons and tennis court).
  • Setting up Spa & Recreation departments concepts and policies & procedures.
  • Opening A club house on the island with fitness facilities/spas/F&B outlets.

Complex Spa & Recreation Director

Starwood Hotels Westin & Le Meridien City Center Bahrain
06.2016 - 06.2017
  • Best Spa Brand and Best Hammam Bahrain 2017 Award.
  • 420 Rooms over all the complex, 10 Treatment rooms, Largest Hammam in Bahrain.
  • Salon, Gym, A team of 20 staffs.

Spa & Wellness Center Director

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence
08.2014 - 06.2016
  • 9 Treatment rooms, 1 Mani/Pedi Room, 1 Yoga Studio.
  • A team of 15 staffs.
  • Revenue of 2015 of 3,845,378 LE, Spa profitability 2015 is 60.9 % saving cost by 17%.
  • Rebuilt a strong International Spa Team.
  • Review and development of all Spa and menu concept.
  • Review of Standards of service and improvement of Guest Satisfaction.
  • Implementation of Brand standards.
  • Budgeting and cost control.
  • Review of department marketing and promotions strategy.
  • Property is the #5 of the Top 25 Hotels in Africa- the Conde Nast Reader Choice Award for First Residence.
  • Spa - shortlisted for the World Spa Awards in the category Egypt Best Spa.
  • Consistently achieving budget since joined and exceeding by approximately 250,000 LE in the past year.
  • Since 08/2014 - I have recovered budget shortfall from first quarter of the year.
  • Since 08/2014 - I have improved LQA results from 42 % in 2014 to 80 % in 2015.
  • Since 01/2015 - improvement of Spa Guest In-House Satisfaction from 70.8 % to 85.3 YTD.

Spa/Salon Manager (acting Spa Director)

Nstyle International (UAE)
07.2013 - 08.2014
  • Supervising a team of 21 technicians for massage/facials/Mani/Pedi and hair services and Front desk.
  • Develop strong product quality measures within Department.
  • Be responsible for a consistent great experience that exceeds expectations and meets required standards.
  • Advice guests in a professional and knowledgeable manner regarding treatments and products offered at the salons.
  • Achieve targets and meet management requirements.
  • Ensure at the treatment rooms & facilities are full set up before beginning of a treatment according to the spa standards and municipality standards.

Spa Facilities Manager

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Palm Jumeirah
05.2011 - 07.2013
  • To oversee and take responsibility for the therapy or guest services team and ensure they deliver optimum service to guest.
  • To ensure they follow all treatment & spa standards.
  • Construct Department Training Plan and career development.
  • Develop strong product quality measures within Department.
  • To maximize profit through driving revenues and controlling costs within the business.
  • To assist in achieving budget through planned initiatives and controlling.
  • To direct the spa team to achieve success where everyone contributes.
  • Be responsible for a consistent great experience that exceeds expectations and meets required standards.
  • Ensure new spa experience development to maintain innovation and originality.
  • To track and monitor the results of the department & individual staffs KPI on daily, weekly & monthly basis.
  • Develop and maintain appropriate relationship with the spa guest to create a personalized and attentive service.

Recreation Manager

Tulip Inn Hawar Beach
11.2010 - 05.2011
  • In charge of water sports, Spa, Excursions. And boat operations.
  • Sports activities and kids' activities.
  • All behaviors comply with the Code of Conduct and Rules of Behavior Policies and Procedures Manual.
  • Provide timely, accurate and thorough Performance Reviews for supervised employees.
  • Assume management responsibility for all services and activities of the Recreation, Tennis and Swimming Pool Divisions within the Parks and Recreation Department including senior centers, recreation centers, aquatic programs, tennis programs, adult and youth programs, adult sports, and related recreational services or activities.

Assistant Recreation & Spa Manager (In charge)

Savoy Resort Sharm El Sheikh Egypt
03.2010 - 11.2010
  • In Charge of 20 swimming pools, 2 big Spas 2 gyms and entertainment area (Ice skating bowling, kids play areas in Soho square) and 80 staff members.
  • Plans and coordinates the summer recreation program. Evaluates the program each year to delete poorly attended classes and replace and add new classes of interest to participating youth.
  • Hires and trains instructors and assistants for summer recreation program.
  • Prepares for publication a variety of brochures, calendars, letters, posters, news releases, flyers, and related communications regarding recreation programs.
  • Performs or assists subordinates in performing duties, adjusts errors and complaints, and maintains harmony among workers.

Assistant LIFE Manager

Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay Oman
08.2009 - 03.2010
  • In charge of water sports, Excursions. And boat operations Sports activities and kids' activities.
  • Plans and manages a comprehensive recreation program including athletic leagues, instructional programs, day camps, and special events.
  • Manages the Community Center and programs therein, including staffing, maintenance, and marketing.
  • Trains, supervises and evaluates work performance of full-time and seasonal personnel; makes recommendations for hiring and termination; prepares schedules and assignments for recreation personnel.
  • Provides for risk management practices; ensures all safety rules, regulations and procedures are followed; makes sure that employees are trained in safety procedures.
  • Prepares and manages annual budget for recreation program functions. Approves purchases of supplies and operating inventory for recreation programs. Develops alternative funding sources for programs and improvements.
  • Performs public relation duties; responds to complaints; handles all league suspensions and rule enforcement; prepares news releases, information and marketing bulletins or other publicity on recreation activities; identify and meet the recreational needs of diverse community groups.
  • Coordinates facilities and programs with department staff and other agencies and organizations; serves as a technical advisor to sports clubs and recreation staff.

Recreation and Spa Supervisor

Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh Egypt
06.2006 - 08.2009
  • Ensure recreation facilities are maintained to ensure a safe, clean and appropriate environment for recreation activities.
  • Assist with planning and developing sport and recreation programs to ensure that activities and events are made available for all community members needed.
  • Implement recreation programs to ensure that residents have access to sport, recreation and leisure activities, Schedule activities, facilities and volunteers as required.
  • Supervise and lead activities, particularly for youth and elders.
  • Recruit, train and oversee volunteers, Assist with and facilitate local involvement in regional and territorial programs and Competition.

Education

Course Front Office Management -

Hotel School The Hague

Course Housekeeping Management - undefined

Hotel School The Hague

Harvard - undefined

Change and Innovation

Harvard - undefined

Critical Thinking

Harvard - undefined

Global Collaboration

Harvard -

Strategic Thinking

Skills

  • Knowledge of ISO 45001
  • Risk reduction techniques
  • Health surveillance aptitude
  • Communication excellence
  • Environmental sustainability awareness
  • IOSH certification
  • First aid proficiency
  • Incident management expertise
  • Public liability understanding
  • Auditing experience
  • Regulatory compliance awareness
  • Fire safety management

Certification

  • Hospitality Management Cornell university
  • ILTP lifeguard instructor E&A
  • Spa Management and operations Spas2b Canada endorsed by CIBTAC
  • Spa & Wellness management Arab German chamber of commerce
  • International Sports Sciences Association Elite 2 Trainer
  • Rescue Diver / Reef check certified From PADI international
  • Power boat license PB2
  • Open water Lifeguard Trainer Assessor Royal Life Saving Society
  • AED specialism Royal Life Saving Society
  • First aid at work Red Cross
  • IOSH Managing Safely v5.0
  • Site Safety Plus Health & Safety Awareness for constructions and civil Engineering industries
  • CSCS card (construction skills certification scheme)
  • Advanced Driver License IAM0077

Languages

English
Arabic

Personal Information

Nationality: Dominican

Timeline

Senior Safety Officer

Dubai Municipality
05.2023 - 05.2025

Site Manager

Aqua Park Group
05.2020 - 05.2023

Wellness and Retail Director

AYANA Resort and Spa Balo
02.2020 - 02.2021

Wellness Director (Pre-opening)

Jayasom Wellness Resorts
07.2018 - 02.2020

Director of Spa and Recreation (Pre-opening)

Reef Resort (Reef Island) Bahrain
07.2017 - 07.2018

Complex Spa & Recreation Director

Starwood Hotels Westin & Le Meridien City Center Bahrain
06.2016 - 06.2017

Spa & Wellness Center Director

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence
08.2014 - 06.2016

Spa/Salon Manager (acting Spa Director)

Nstyle International (UAE)
07.2013 - 08.2014

Spa Facilities Manager

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Palm Jumeirah
05.2011 - 07.2013

Recreation Manager

Tulip Inn Hawar Beach
11.2010 - 05.2011

Assistant Recreation & Spa Manager (In charge)

Savoy Resort Sharm El Sheikh Egypt
03.2010 - 11.2010

Assistant LIFE Manager

Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay Oman
08.2009 - 03.2010

Recreation and Spa Supervisor

Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh Egypt
06.2006 - 08.2009

Course Housekeeping Management - undefined

Hotel School The Hague

Harvard - undefined

Change and Innovation

Harvard - undefined

Critical Thinking

Harvard - undefined

Global Collaboration

Course Front Office Management -

Hotel School The Hague

Harvard -

Strategic Thinking

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AHMED ELSANDOBY