Siji Thajudeen named among Hozpitality's Best 30 Most Popular Finance Leaders in the Middle East for 2023
Siji Thajudeen, the Head of Finance at The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, has over 32 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including prestigious roles at renowned hotels. Siji has demonstrated excellence in finance management, perseverance, and exceptional leadership skills.
Siji Thajudeen, the Head of Finance at The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, has been recognized as one of the top finance leaders in the Middle East by Hozpitality for 2023. With a distinguished career in the hospitality industry, Siji has displayed excellence, perseverance, and exceptional finance management skills throughout his journey.
Siji's remarkable career in hospitality began in 2007 at the Rotana Group of hotels (Al Murooj) in the UAE, where he started as an Outlet Cashier. Over the years, he held various positions in the finance division, showcasing his dedication and expertise. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the Assistant Credit Manager at The Cove Rotana before being promoted to Credit Manager from 2010 to 2013. Notably, he also served as the pre-opening Credit Manager for the iconic Hilton Conrad at Sheikh Zayed Road.
After a brief hiatus, Siji returned to The Cove Rotana as a Financial Accountant and continued his service until 2018. In 2018, he joined The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, a luxury brand operated from Singapore and owned by Shurooq, as the Chief Accountant. Due to his exceptional performance, Siji was promoted to the position of Finance Manager and eventually became the Head of Finance. His role in the pre-opening phase was instrumental in establishing the finance standard operating procedures (SOPs) while adhering to the USALI-11th Revised Edition and upholding the market's hospitality accounting principles.
With his extensive experience in the hospitality sector, Siji possesses a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations and demonstrates the ability to adapt to evolving requirements. He excels in identifying and obtaining the necessary resources to achieve goals and objectives. Siji effectively responds to the needs, feelings, and capabilities of others, fostering positive working relationships regardless of status or position. His inspiring leadership style motivates and guides his team towards achieving their goals while he consistently develops and maintains cooperative working relationships.
Siji holds a master’s degree in commerce and is proud to be certified as a Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) by the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI). His expertise encompasses budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, working capital management, and financial projection. He is skilled in preparing financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI).
As a result-oriented professional with a wealth of experience in the field, Siji Thajudeen has made a significant impact in finance management within the hospitality industry. His commitment to excellence, meticulous financial planning, and industry knowledge have contributed to his well-deserved recognition as one of the top finance leaders in the Middle East. The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah and the entire hospitality community take pride in his accomplishments and look forward to witnessing his continued success in the field.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE