Celebrating the Hozpitality Best 30 Housekeeping Leaders in the Middle East
Discover the critical role of exceptional housekeeping teams in enhancing guest experiences and ensuring operational excellence. Learn more about Hozpitality's power list recognizing the top 30 housekeeping leaders in the Middle East for their outstanding contributions.
When you enter a hotel lobby, the pristine, spotless floors immediately catch your eye, complemented by the glimmering vases filled with fresh seasonal flowers. The meticulously arranged couches enhance the inviting ambiance, and the sliding doors are free of fingerprints, reflecting a high standard of cleanliness.
The freshly made bed with impeccably white sheets emits a soothing lavender scent in your room. The bathroom showcases clean tiles, pristine fixtures, and a spotless shower, with fresh towels and high-quality toiletries neatly arranged. The meticulous attention to detail makes you feel so comfortable that you momentarily forget about home, wishing you could extend your stay.
In stark contrast, imagine checking into a hotel where a damp smell greets you as you enter. Hair on the bed and unpleasant-smelling bedding disrupt your rest, and you hesitate to use the shower due to questionable cleanliness. This stark difference highlights the critical role of an exceptional housekeeping team in enhancing guest experiences and earning positive reviews.
From a company perspective, the housekeeping department is indispensable. It directly impacts guest satisfaction, which is a crucial factor in earning repeat business and positive reviews. A well-maintained environment enhances the guest experience and reflects the hotel's brand and commitment to quality. Effective housekeeping operations lead to higher occupancy rates, increased revenue, and a strong reputation in the competitive hospitality market. Furthermore, exceptional housekeeping reduces maintenance costs by preventing wear and tear and extends the lifespan of hotel furnishings and facilities. It also plays a vital role in health and safety, ensuring that guests enjoy a clean and hygienic stay, which is particularly important in the post-pandemic world. The housekeeping department is a cornerstone of operational excellence and long-term profitability in the hospitality industry.
Hozpitality's Best 30 Housekeeping Leaders in the Middle East celebrate the top housekeeping professionals who ensure their departments run seamlessly and guests enjoy memorable stays.
Hozpitality, a leading platform in the hospitality industry, has launched the power list, "Hozpitality's Best 30 Housekeeping Leaders in the Middle East," to celebrate the top housekeeping professionals who ensure their departments run seamlessly and guests enjoy memorable stays. Voting commenced on April 20, with winners determined by the highest number of votes received. These winners have demonstrated exceptional efficiency, skills, and dedication in the housekeeping department.
The selection criteria for these awards include innovation in housekeeping practices, leadership qualities, positive guest feedback, and operational efficiency. These criteria ensure that only the most deserving professionals are recognized. Recognizing these leaders acknowledges their efforts and sets a benchmark for the industry. It encourages continuous improvement and excellence in housekeeping standards.
This recognition could significantly influence the winners' careers, opening new opportunities for growth and setting them apart as industry leaders. It also elevates the overall standards within the hospitality sector, benefitting guests and businesses alike.
Here is the list of Hozpitality’s Best 30 Housekeeping Leaders in the Middle East, and their career journeys:
Akshi Singh
Cluster Director of Housekeeping
Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Al-Thuraya City Kuwait
Hailing from an army background and a mother of two, Akshi graduated from the renowned IHMCTAN Mumbai, India, in 1992. Her career began at OSHM as a management trainee, and she spent nine years with the prestigious Oberoi chain (The Oberoi Towers, The Oberoi New Delhi, The Trident Jaipur, and The Wildflower Hall).
Amartya Chakraborty
Executive Housekeeper
The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel
Throughout his tenure, Amartya has demonstrated outstanding dedication to operational excellence and innovation. His leadership has been instrumental in driving The Retreat Palm Dubai to achieve exceptional guest satisfaction scores for cleanliness and accommodation, setting a benchmark for service excellence in the region.
Ankita Choubey
Cluster Housekeeping Manager
Wyndham Dubai Deira, Days Hotel by Wyndham and Super 8 by Wyndham
Her role as Cluster Housekeeping Manager encompasses overseeing operations across three prominent hotels in Deira's vibrant Gold Souq district, where she supervises the maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene standards across 580 rooms and 8 restaurants, serving approximately 1500 guests and team members.
Ashok Kumar
Executive Housekeeper
Novotel and ibis Abu Dhabi Gate Hotels
Drawing from more than 18 years of experience, Ashok Kumar excels in team leadership, staff development, and budget management. His strategic acumen includes creating schedules, administering budgets, and mentoring staff to ensure operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Known for his commitment to sustainability, Ashok led initiatives to eliminate single-use plastics at his properties, aligning with Accor's sustainability program and earning Green Key certification in 2024.
Asif Khatri
Cluster Executive Housekeeper
Hilton Dubai Jumeirah and Hilton Dubai The Walk
With a career at Hilton that began in 2000 as a Floor Supervisor, Asif Khatri has risen through the ranks, showcasing steadfast dedication and exemplary skills in hotel management, OnQ systems, communication, and customer satisfaction. A profound commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility marks his journey within the company.
Ateev Shah
Executive Housekeeper
NH Collection Dubai The Palm
Ateev brings nearly seven years of diverse experience across various brands and locations within the Minor Group. He is now channeling his expertise at NH Collection Dubai The Palm. As a leader in his current role, he effectively oversees, manages, and coordinates all departmental team members, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
Avinash T. Vernekar
Executive Housekeeper
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Avinash Vernekar is a driven and passionate hospitality professional with extensive experience in luxury hotel and resort management. He specializes in pre-opening operations and operational efficiency. His strategic insight aligns with company objectives, driving positive bottom-line results while fostering a superior guest experience.
Beena Sherin Vijayakumar
Director of Housekeeping
Bab Al Qasr Abu Dhabi
Beena Sherin Vijayakumar career spans significant achievements and a steadfast commitment to elevating guest experiences through meticulous attention to detail and innovative practices.
Deep Kumar Verma
Executive Housekeeper
The Canvas Dubai MGallery Hotel Collection
With a distinguished career spanning 14 years, Deep Kumar Verma has garnered extensive experience across esteemed hotel brands, including Jaypee, Oberoi, Taj, Melia, IHG, Park Regis, and Accor. His journey reflects a steadfast commitment to elevating housekeeping standards, nurturing teams, and enhancing guest experiences through meticulous attention to detail and innovative practices.
Ebenezer Ahimaz
Executive Housekeeper
Hormuz Grand A Radisson Collection Hotel, Muscat, Oman
With over 23 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ebenezer Ahimaz has established himself as a proven leader. His career highlights include successfully managing the opening of two 5-star hotels and consistently delivering high standards of cleanliness and service excellence. His leadership prowess is underscored by accolades such as being named Runner-Up as Best Housekeeper of Asia in 2019-2020 and earning the title of Best Housekeeper in the Middle East at the MECHF Awards 2023.
Febin Joseph
Housekeeping Manager
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi
Febin Joseph's journey in hospitality began with humble roots. He started his career as a waiter in India after completing his Diploma from the Food Craft Institute. His passion for excellence and pursuit of opportunities led him to Movenpick Hotel Kuwait in 2011, where he began his housekeeping career as a Public Area Attendant.
I Wayan Murdikayasa
Housekeeping Manager
Atlantis the Palm
I Wayan Murdikayasa, affectionately known as Murdika, began his career journey at Atlantis The Palm as a Housekeeping Guest Room Valet in 2009. Through relentless dedication and a passion for excellence, he swiftly ascended the ranks to become one of the youngest Housekeeping Managers at the age of 29. Managing the housekeeping operations of a 1544-room property at such a young age reflects his exceptional leadership and management skills.
Jeanette Clift
Director of Housekeeping
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa
With over 29 years of distinguished experience in Housekeeping Management across international markets, Jeanette Clift brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Many accomplishments, including opening several prestigious hotels in the Middle East, marked her career. Her strategic insights and proficiency in project management have consistently elevated operational standards and fortified the reputations of the properties under her leadership.
Kathiresan Shanmugam
Executive Housekeeper
TIME Oak Hotel & Suites
Since commencing his tenure as Executive Housekeeper on February 19, 2017, Kathiresan has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and leadership, overseeing the housekeeping and laundry departments with efficiency and excellence.
Kishore Pemmasani
Director of Housekeeping
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai
Kishore Pemmasani exemplifies excellence in hospitality management, overseeing housekeeping operations across 294 keys at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai JBR, with finesse and innovation. With a distinguished career spanning nearly two decades, Kishore has honed his expertise in upholding five-star hospitality standards at esteemed establishments, including Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Hilton Dubai Walk, and Doubletree by Hilton M Square.
Lea Ruhimbaccus
Executive Housekeeper
Waldorf Astoria Palm
Currently serving as the Executive Housekeeper at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah since September 2020, Lea has consistently demonstrated her ability to lead and inspire her team. Before this role, she was the Director of Housekeeping at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, from September 2019 to September 2020. Lea also boasts a remarkable 15-year tenure at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, where she held various positions including Executive Housekeeper, Assistant Executive Housekeeper, and Housekeeping Manager.
Leelavathi Nannuru
Complex Director of Housekeeping
Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Le Meridien Fairway,
Aloft & Element Al Mina, Aloft & Element Dubai Airport
For decades, Leela has shattered stereotypes and forged paths of success, driving innovation and excellence in the hospitality industry. From pioneering eco-friendly practices to revolutionizing technology in sanitation, she has made significant contributions to best practices at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre and the other five properties under her portfolio. Her leadership, resilience, and dedication have brought successful business and empowered associates.
Mathanath Jamshad
Director of Housekeeping
Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lakes Towers
With 18 years of industry experience in the UAE and India, working with renowned brands such as Accor and Marriott, Jamshad has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication. Since taking on the role of Director of Housekeeping at Pullman Jumeirah Lakes Tower Hotel in 2021, he has achieved remarkable results. His tenure has been marked by a perfect 100% LQA Audit result, the highest employee engagement survey scores, and significant improvements in guest reviews and quality standards.
Mini Tareen
Director of Housekeeping
Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel, Dubai
Mini Tareen brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, which is marked by a strategic approach and a commitment to excellence. Her career began with a diploma in hotel management, catering technology, and applied nutrition, laying the foundation for her journey of leadership and innovation in hospitality.
Mohammed Niyaz Khalid
Executive Housekeeper
Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai
Mohammed Niyaz Khalid's career in hospitality has been marked by a profound dedication to excellence, particularly in the dynamic realm of pre-opening hotels. Each pre-opening project has significantly shaped his professional journey.
Nitin Pandere
Housekeeping Manager
Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North
Nitin Pandere brings over 22 years of extensive experience in the hotel industry, specializing in housekeeping and recreation management. His career has spanned diverse regions, including India, the United Kingdom, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar, enriching his expertise and global perspective.
Prabhat Shukla
Director of Housekeeping
Intercontinental Doha The City
With over twenty years of progressive experience in the hospitality industry across India, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar, Prabhat has gained extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of work ethics. His career highlights include successful pre-opening experiences, meticulous planning, and organizing operational requirements for housekeeping, guest rooms, front, and back-of-house cleaning, and linen and uniform room operations. Prabhat's commitment to constantly reviewing policies and procedures and overseeing department operations has been pivotal in recognizing and grooming potential talents within his team.
Rajendra Silwal
Executive Housekeeper
Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat
With a career spanning over two decades and a decade-long tenure at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat, Rajendra brings a wealth of strategic insight and hotel management expertise to his role. Throughout his journey, he has demonstrated steadfast dedication to maintaining the highest standards while optimizing operational costs, reflecting his ability to significantly impact the company's management.
Rakesh Sharma
Senior Director of Housekeeping
Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya
With over twenty years of international experience across esteemed luxury hotel brands, Rakesh has left an indelible mark in the hospitality industry. His journey spans key roles at prestigious properties such as Four Seasons Hotels in Kuwait, Seychelles, India, China, and Mauritius, as well as significant contributions at Emirates Palace by Mandarin Oriental in the UAE, Fairmont Hotels in Egypt, and Waldorf Astoria Hotels in Egypt.
Ruwan Kumara
Executive Housekeeper
Dusit Thani Dubai
With a career spanning over twenty-seven years, including five years in housekeeping management, Ruwan Kumara has garnered extensive experience and expertise in luxury hotel operations. His journey at Dusit Thani Dubai began in 2012, where he initially served as a Housekeeping Manager before ascending to his current role as Executive Housekeeper in 2018.
Samita Panda
Executive Housekeeper
Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort
With over a decade of expertise in luxury hospitality, Samita Panda currently oversees the meticulous upkeep of every facet of Anantara Mina Al Arab, ensuring the resort maintains the highest standards through her dedicated and professional team.
Shrirams Manoharan
Director of Housekeeping
Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa
With over 15 years of dedicated service in the hospitality sector, primarily with Rotana Management, Shrirams has held pivotal roles across four different properties within the group. He holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management and a post-graduate certification in Human Resources.
Sonam Das
Housekeeping Manager
Kempinski Hotel Mall of The Emirates
With over 11 years of dedicated experience, Sonam's journey began with Hyatt Hotels in 2012 through a campus placement after graduating with a gold medal from the School of Hotel Management. Recognized as the best alumni of the year in 2014 by state officials, Sonam progressed from supervisor roles at Hyatt Hotels to senior supervisor at Marriott Hotels during its pre-opening phase in Dubai.
Suresh Khadka
Executive Housekeeper
InterContinental Muscat
With a remarkable career spanning more than 21 years in the industry, Suresh Khadka exemplifies dedication and excellence in his role. Beginning his journey as a Trainee in the Housekeeping department at Soaltee Crowne Plaza, Kathmandu in 2003, Khadka swiftly advanced through roles of increasing responsibility. His tenure includes pivotal contributions to renowned establishments such as Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza in India, where he played a crucial role in the pre-opening phases.
Taylan Dogan
Cluster Executive Housekeeper
The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton,
Double Tree by Hilton Yas Island Residence
Passionate about diversity, Taylan fosters a balanced gender ratio across position levels within the housekeeping department, with the highest female representation. He has successfully maintained exceptional turnover scores compared to the previous year and attained outstanding results in the Team Member Engagement Survey.
Amit Singh
Mumbai, India
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