KEMPINSKI HOTELS MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
People culture
The hospitality industry landscape has evolved considerably in recent decades, yet there is one constant; it is a people’s business. This, to me, is our most important resource. Since the beginning of my journey in hospitality, I have always been concerned with people’s wellbeing, and I strived to create the right environment with hard-working team members, because I truly believe that professionalism, passion and the right culture is what fuels a company’s key competitive edge in today’s market.
Throughout my career, I was fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful mentors, who inspired me to share my knowledge and empowered me to support young talents in reaching their full potential.
The best version of yourself
Eleanor Roosevelt, once said: “True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.” This quote has always inspired me. Our guests and colleagues are constantly redefining the future of our industry. Carefully anticipating the evolving needs and priorities of our guests is key. At Kempinski Hotels, we craft beautiful performances, and we build loyalty with our guests, employees and business partners. It's about personal fulfillment and self-satisfaction.
Environmental awareness
We have a responsibility toward the environment, and our approach to sustainability is embedded within the company values. Our aim is to deliver bespoke guest journeys and luxurious yet sustainable experiences while minimizing environmental and social impact. Similarly, we are committed to building long-term partnerships to achieve common goals, and we collaborate with partners that share our ethics, values and sustainability vision to enhance our responsible business practices. A priority in our business model is our ecological footprint. To reach our goals, we have partnered with the award-winning Earthcheck sustainability certification program across all our hotels worldwide.
Also, enhancing people’s health and wellbeing is at the heart of our business. Kempinski is one of the founders of BE Health Association with a commitment to preventing diseases and caring for people’s health from the workplace to the local community by establishing individual hotel health prevention programs under the name of BE Health.
Career path
I began my career in 2001 in Chicago. After graduating with an economics degree, I never thought I would pursue a career in hospitality. I was unexpectedly drawn to the hotel business after meeting some of the most passionate hoteliers.
More than 20 years later, after living on four continents and working for leading hotel brands, I enjoy sharing my experiences and drive with young graduates and professionals. Discussing their aspirations and dreams reminds me of my beginnings, 20 years ago, and I always tell them to believe in themselves and to do everything with passion and determination.
New hotel projects in MENA
East:
2022/23
Kempinski Hotel & Resort Yanbu (KSA) 2023
Kempinski Residences The Creek, Dubai (UAE)
Kempinski Hotel Al Madinah (KSA)
2024
Kempinski Floating Palace Dubai (UAE) Kempinski Hotel Makkah (KSA) Kempinski Al Queshan Hotel Riyadh (KSA)