Mahendra Totoo Recognized in Hozpitality's Best 30 F&B Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
Mahendra's career in the hotel business spans more than 23 years and demonstrates his passion, leadership, and competence in food and beverage management.
Mahendra Totoo, Director of Food & Beverage at Novotel and ibis Abu Dhabi Gate Hotels has been honoured among Hozpitality's Best 30 F&B Leaders in the Middle East for 2024. With over 23 years of dedicated experience in the hospitality industry, Mahendra's career reflects his passion, leadership, and expertise in food and beverage management.
Mahendra began his hospitality journey in Mauritius, earning his degree in Food and beverage from the Hotel School of Mauritius in 2003. His professional career started in 1999 with Radisson Mauritius, and he quickly made his mark in the F&B sector. He later enhanced his expertise with Le Méridien Ile Maurice, gaining valuable experience that shaped his future success.
In 2003, Mahendra moved to the UAE to work with Novotel and ibis World Trade Center, where he managed high-profile events such as the IMF conferences. His long-standing association with Accor has spanned over two decades, during which he worked with various prestigious brands, including Sofitel, Pullman, Mercure, Novotel, and ibis. He has successfully led F&B operations across multiple hotels, consistently delivering exceptional service and product quality.
Since February 2021, Mahendra has served as the Director of Food and beverage at Novotel & ibis Abu Dhabi Gate Hotels. Prior to this role, he joined the property as Assistant Director of F&B in 2018, where he quickly excelled and achieved his professional goals. His leadership has been pivotal in maintaining service excellence and driving operational efficiency.
Mahendra's expertise covers all facets of F&B management, including menu development, team leadership, guest satisfaction, cost control, and strategic planning. His hands-on approach has made him adept at managing large-scale operations while also focusing on training and developing future leaders. As a sustainability champion, Mahendra led efforts to remove all single-use plastics from the property, contributing to Accor's sustainability initiatives and earning the hotel a Green Key Certification in 2024.
In addition to his accomplishments, Mahendra is an active member of the Middle East Food & Beverage Leaders Group and is recognized for his adaptability in fast-paced environments, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving operational excellence.
Mahendra's vast experience, strong leadership, and strategic mindset have established him as a highly respected figure in the industry. His dedication to enhancing guest experiences, optimizing revenue, and fostering a collaborative team environment highlights his remarkable contribution to the Middle East's F&B sector.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE