Sri Lanka
I am a results-driven luxury hospitality leader with over 20 years of global experience across iconic brands including Anantara, Marina Bay Sands, Park Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and Conrad. I specialize in transforming operations, enhancing ultra-luxury guest journeys, and building high-performing cultures in complex, competitive markets. My track record spans hotel openings, multimillion-dollar asset enhancements, and strategic turnarounds. Whether launching a superyacht division at Marina Bay Sands or steering Forbes 5-Star achievements, I bring a deep focus on commercial outcomes and operational excellence.
Leading two of Sri Lanka’s most inspiring escapes known for their picturesque setting between the Indian Ocean and the Kalu Ganga lagoon: The luxurious Anantara Kalutara, a Geoffrey Bawa inspired sanctuary, and the lifestyle-focused, artsy, laid back hospitality AVANI Kalutara Resort. From curated cultural encounters, delectable dining to Ayurvedic wellness and genuine hospitality: This is Sri Lanka at its finest.
Led day-to-day operations and guest experience strategy across three flagship Vinpearl properties in Vietnam, multiple F&B outlets, and extensive MICE facilities. Collaborated closely with commercial and regional teams to support performance delivery and brand standards. Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang (533 keys incl. 57 villas, 5 F&B outlets, Imperial Club entertainment complex) Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang (84 ultra-luxury villas, 4 F&B outlets) Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long (384 keys, 5 F&B outlets; until June 2024) Key Highlights: Drove 54% revenue growth and 169% GOP increase in Nha Trang by optimizing premium product strategy, streamlining procurement, and enhancing team productivity. Elevated RGI from 1.35 to 1.37 and improved guest satisfaction scores. Revamped F&B with Mediterranean and Grill concepts, boosting positioning in leisure and MICE segments.
GM-level oversight of the Paiza Collection (220 ultra-luxury suites) and strategic luxury innovation projects Led all operational aspects of the Paiza Collection, Marina Bay Sands’ ultra-luxury hotel-within-a-hotel concept. Oversaw service delivery, guest experience design, and strategic project implementation in collaboration with brand, asset, and ownership stakeholders. Key Highlights: Instrumental in the transformation of Paiza from 52 to 220 suites, culminating in Marina Bay Sands’ first-ever Forbes 5-Star hotel rating. Developed and launched the Paiza One superyacht division: led acquisition, refurbishment, importation, and service programming for a 145-foot luxury yacht experience. Championed elevated service standards and personalized guest engagement for UHNW clientele across Asia Pacific. Coordinated cross-functional efforts to align luxury operations with Marina Bay Sands’ broader brand elevation strategy.
Dual-property operational leadership across two beachfront resorts with a combined 693 keys, 9 F&B venues, spa, and large event facilities Managed daily operations and team performance across two flagship Shangri-La properties. Oversaw guest services, rooms, F&B, spa, and event execution, ensuring consistent delivery of luxury brand standards while leading significant renovation and enhancement projects. Key Highlights: Led the 387-key renovation of Golden Sands Resort, from conceptualization to post-renovation defect management. Improved STR RevPAR ranking by 2 positions through enhanced service standards and experience delivery. Elevated guest satisfaction and team engagement scores, exceeding KPIs for revenue, GOP, and service quality in both 2018 and 2019. Integrated operations and marketing efforts to drive event business and F&B performance across both properties.
Senior operational leadership of 512-key flagship hotel with 4 F&B outlets, extensive banqueting, and large-scale catering operations Oversaw full hotel operations, leading cross-departmental teams across Rooms, F&B, Events, Engineering, and Guest Services. Played a key role in major renovation and brand enhancement initiatives, while driving continuous improvement in guest satisfaction and team performance. Key Highlights: Coordinated a US$36M asset enhancement project, including guestroom upgrades with Ibrahim Jaya Design and the conceptualization of a new Club Lounge and C&E spaces. Improved guest satisfaction scores from 57.5% to 73.5%, significantly enhancing brand experience and service delivery. Exceeded KPIs for GOP, guest satisfaction, and team engagement in 2016 and 2017. Supported commercial and marketing teams in aligning product evolution with customer expectations during and post-renovation.
Operational leadership of 656-key luxury hotel within the integrated Sands Cotai Central resort, including Rooms, F&B, and Guest Services Managed daily hotel operations within a fast-paced integrated resort environment. Focused on service delivery, team performance, and operational efficiency, contributing to the property’s rise in guest recognition and profitability. Key Highlights: Contributed to achieving Forbes 5-Star rating and TripAdvisor #1 ranking in Macau during tenure. Restructured operational teams, resulting in a 9% payroll savings vs budget while maintaining service quality. Improved guest loyalty by 8.5% (year-over-year), driven by service enhancements and consistent brand experience. Achieved the highest employee engagement scores across all Sands China properties during tenure.