MAHER El KHODR
Hotel Manager
Dubai
Summary
PERSONAL PROFILE -
I am a dynamic and visionary leader with over 23 years of specialized experience in pre-opening and managing luxury 5-star and 4-star hotels and resorts, including consulting engagements. Throughout my career, I've excelled in setting and maintaining exceptional standards by introducing innovative services and products tailored to evolving traveler preferences. My expertise includes crafting captivating F&B concepts and events aligned with market trend and blending creativity with business acumen to ensure success. I thrive in fast-paced environments, managing multiple priorities with enthusiasm and a solutions-driven approach, consistently exceeding team, company, and ownership expectations.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Hospitality Consultant - Busineess Partner
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships
Dubai, Dubai
06.2023 - Current
- I led three dynamic hospitality projects, including establishing a new restaurant concept, planning and pre-opening a 5-star hotel and resort, and launching a desert resort operation.
- Partnering with two companies, one for cigar distribution and experience and the branch of a leading company for hospitality supplies opened in UAE.
- Collaborated with management teams to identify areas for improvement in operational processes, leading to cost savings and increased efficiencies.
- Launched new products and services with thorough market research, leading to increased revenue growth.
- Led change management initiatives to drive organizational transformation without compromising employee morale or productivity.
- Increased client base by identifying new business opportunities and cultivating solid relationships with key decision-makers.
- Generated new business with marketing initiatives and strategic plans.
Hotel Manager
Mercure Barasha Height Suites and Apartments (Accor) - 1015 Keys
Dubai, Dubai
01.2023 - 07.2023
- Oversaw operations of four diverse F&B outlets: all-day dining, bar, lobby lounge, and specialty restaurant additional to a 8 meetings rooms and event venues.
- Established and upheld high standards, ensuring exceptional customer service and personalized guest assistance.
- Planned and executed effective marketing activities to elevate the property's brand image and drive increased revenue.
- Managed daily hotel operations, including staff management and ensuring high-quality customer service.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Successfully managed budgets and monitored financial performance to optimize profitability.
- Created and executed innovative marketing and promotional strategies to increase occupancy and revenue.
- Ensured compliance with safety, health, and licensing regulations, fostering a secure and compliant environment.
- Maintaining positive relationships with guests, vendors, and other stakeholder.
- Recruiting, training, and supervising staff members.
- Resolving customer complaints and issues promptly and professionally.
Complex Operation Manager (Pre-Opening)
Aloft & Element (Marriott Int.) F&B in-charge
Dubai, Dubai
10.2017 - 12.2023
- Played a key role as part of a successful pre-opening team for the first brand in the Middle East and Africa,
- Taking charge of the four F&B outlets within the property, including two all-day dining venues, a bar, and a lobby lounge that includes 2 meeting rooms and 391 rooms and apartments.
- Demonstrated success in meeting tight deadlines and thriving in a fast-paced environment.
- Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Developed and implemented effective strategies to enhance operational efficiency and productivity.
- Effectively managed budgets, expenses, and financial performance to drive profitability.
- Ensured compliance with relevant regulations and maintained high standards.
- Recruited, trained, and managed a skilled and motivated staff.
- Monitored and analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement appropriate strategies.
- Identified and implemented new technologies and systems to optimize operations and enhance guest experiences
Director of Residence
Residence Inn by Marriott
kuwait
04.2015 - 10.2017
- Works with Guidance team to develop an operational strategy that is aligned with the brand's business strategy and leads its execution
- Communicate key drivers of guest satisfaction for the brands target customer
- Coach & Support operational team to effectively manage occupancy, rate and controllable expenses
- Reviews Owner engagement survey and prepares yearly action plans comment cards, guest satisfaction results and other data to identify areas of improvement
- Adheres to the four pillars of Operational excellence: Owner and employee engagement, financial excellence and Property Management.
- Manages luxury condominium facilities and all departments working within the building, including physical plant with attention to protection of the investment and plans to increase its value through superior care
Director of Housekeeping
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & SPA
08.2011 - 03.2015
Executive Housekeeper
Al Manshar Rotana Hotel
12.2009 - 08.2011
Executive Housekeeper & Service Culture Trainer
Le Meridien Kuwait & Le Meridien Kuwait Towers
07.2008 - 12.2009
Executive Housekeeper (Pre-Opening)
Sheraton Aleppo Hotel
09.2006 - 04.2008
Assistant Food & Beverage Manager
Sheraton Coral Beach Hotel & Resort
03.2000 - 07.2006
Food And Beverage Expert (Pre-opening)
Trader Vic's Restaurant and Lounge
01.1999 - 02.2000
Education
Post Graduate PGC E(MBA Program) - Business Administration International Hospitality
Glion Institute of Higher Education
Switzerland06.2013
Skills
- Executive Schedule Management
- Hospitality Management
- Rooms Division
- Budget Implementation
- Guest Complaint Resolution
- Hotel Marketing
- Company Guidelines
- Outstanding Communication Skills
- Revenue Generation
- Quality Assurance
- Strategic Planning
Additional Information
TRAINING CERTIFICATIONS
- Front Office Leadership Academy
- Food Safety manager certification
- Restaurants and Bars Expert
- Social Media & Marketing Expert
- Risk Management
- Six Sigma Modules
- Global Security University 5 tiers.
- The Five Choices to Extraordinary Productivity Training
- 3D of Leadership
- Rooms Revenue Forecasting Process
- Executive Presentation Skills
- Service Culture Trainer
- Time Management
- Budgeting Harvard Mentor
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Arabic
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
French
Intermediate (B1)
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Accomplishments
- Implemented a new process that cut wait times for checking in by 25%.
- Carefully mentored newly hired employees on customer service techniques which helped improve focus on guests and visitors.
Timeline
Hospitality Consultant - Busineess Partner
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships
06.2023 - Current
Hotel Manager
Mercure Barasha Height Suites and Apartments (Accor) - 1015 Keys
01.2023 - 07.2023
Complex Operation Manager (Pre-Opening)
Aloft & Element (Marriott Int.) F&B in-charge
10.2017 - 12.2023
Director of Residence
Residence Inn by Marriott
04.2015 - 10.2017
Director of Housekeeping
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & SPA
08.2011 - 03.2015
Executive Housekeeper
Al Manshar Rotana Hotel
12.2009 - 08.2011
Executive Housekeeper & Service Culture Trainer
Le Meridien Kuwait & Le Meridien Kuwait Towers
07.2008 - 12.2009
Executive Housekeeper (Pre-Opening)
Sheraton Aleppo Hotel
09.2006 - 04.2008
Assistant Food & Beverage Manager
Sheraton Coral Beach Hotel & Resort
03.2000 - 07.2006
Food And Beverage Expert (Pre-opening)
Trader Vic's Restaurant and Lounge
01.1999 - 02.2000
Post Graduate PGC E(MBA Program) - Business Administration International Hospitality
Glion Institute of Higher Education
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