Hussain Waheed - Airport Manager of One&Only Reethi Rah


Maldives
Interviews
Hussain Waheed - Airport Manager of One&Only Reethi Rah
PUBLISHED February 01, 2019

We were honored to interview Hussain Waheed, Airport Manager of One&Only Reethi Rah and the recent winner of the People’s Edition Award at the MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2018.

Hussain Waheed is recognised for delivering exceptional service as he goes above and beyond to ensure One&Only Reethi Rah guest’s first and last experiences are truly memorable. Throughout his time working in the Maldives he has remained loyal to the One&Only brand, staying with the company since he joined in 1999. His personal and dedicated approach to his role aligns with the One&Only vision of developing a community of passionate people who deliver amazing experiences and everlasting memories for guests. 

“If you begin your day with positive thoughts, you’ll have the perfect day at work and return home smiling.”

An Interview with the Airport Manager: Hussain Waheed of One&Only Reethi Rah

Congratulations on winning the People’s Edition Award at MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2018. How are you planning on leveraging this opportunity to inspire the younger generation to work harder at developing their career in the hospitality scene?

It is an aim of mine to inspire the younger generation studying hospitality and tourism. I am regularly approached by students in higher education in Male, for advice and guidance prior to starting new positions in the tourism industry. A student needs the most guidance after completing school or college. I am thrilled to be able to empower them with the skills and knowledge from my own experience working in the hospitality industry. I believe it is very important to act as a positive role model and set a professional example in order to inspire the younger generation. Winning the People’s Edition Award is another way I am able to inspire the younger generation to be passionate about their career and constantly strive to achieve their goals.

Can you share with us what you feel has been the most valuable part in your career development to date, that has enabled you to get to where you are today? 

One&Only Reethi Rah certainly! It is the place that has transformed my career. I have worked at other top tourism establishments prior to joining the One&Only brand; however it is at One&Only Reethi Rah where I have learned to constantly strive to exceed the highest standards and to anticipate the needs of our most discerning guests.

At work, what puts a smile on your face? 

I am surrounded by positive and hardworking colleagues at work, so for me I find this infectious and can’t help but be happy and smiling at work as it is a pleasure. In addition to the people around me at work, it is my wife who never fails to put a smile on my face. Her smile gives me all the positive energy I need before starting my day at work. I believe that from the moment I leave home in a cheerful mood, it is my intention to pass that cheer on to someone else every day, and in turn that gives more positive thoughts and energy to me. If you begin your day with positive thoughts, you’ll have the perfect day at work and return home smiling.

How have you changed in the past five years?

My 18 years with One&Only is a testament of loyalty and there has always been endless opportunities for my own growth and development within the company. In fact, One&Only Reethi Rah offer a number of training and career development programs to support colleagues at all levels. I am honored to be the proud winner of numerous awards over the years, which acts as further recognition of the passion and dedication I have for my job.

What is the key characteristic that every resort Airport Manager should have? 

He or she must be a positive thinker; it’s not only a key characteristic for a resort Airport Manager, but for every job. He or she should be able to accept and adapt to environmental and political changes, and most importantly be a good team player because it is important that you work well with everyone in the team.

What is your business approach to One&Only’s art of welcoming? Do you think that the art of welcoming is a differentiating factor for luxury hotels?

One&Only resorts are known the world over for creating memorable experiences through a distinctive style and personality borne of each local culture, genuine hospitality and an injection of captivating energy. One&Only Reethi Rah offers guests an unrivalled level of style, exclusivity and once-in-alife-time experiences, while inspiring extraordinary journeys for the soul. As an innovative luxury brand, we have a unique and personalised way of welcoming our guests. Our hand on our heart welcome is recognized world-wide as the One&Only welcome gesture; which demonstrates a sense of genuine and kind hospitality. As the resort airport representative, I am the first point of contact between our guests and the resort, so I have the great opportunity to make that first and everlasting impression by welcoming the guests from their flight in true One&Only style.

What are the values that you draw on when you welcome your guests? What experiences do you deliver? What are the principal differentiating characteristics in your service that you offer compared to other hotels?

I show warmth to each guest that I welcome. I anticipate their mood and demonstrate empathy for their journey and excitement for the start or end of their holiday with us. These are some of the core service philosophy that is the back bone of service at One&Only. We ensure couples and families alike leave with magical stories to be told. Luxury service is more than just tailored experiences which cannot be easily replicated elsewhere, its creating memorable experiences from an airport arrival and adding simple touches that are inspired by the Maldivian culture. It’s less about the resort facilities and amenities, more about authenticity of the experience that epitomizes a luxury travel escape. When welcoming guests, I draw on this as inspiration and ensure that from the moment I welcome guests at the airport, they begin an unforgettable journey

What do you believe is the best and worst aspect of your job? 

The best part of my job is when I am recognized for my contribution and loyalty to the company. Winning awards in recognition of my work is a proud moment for me. The worst could be days when my wife forgets to ask me how my day was. She is my biggest inspiration so on days she forgets to ask, these days are not my best.

You have been welcoming many high profile guests arriving on private jets, what is the one thing that you feel needs improvement at Velana International Airport? 

I want to see Velana International Airport transform into a service oriented airport. Improved facilities are certainly something the airport needs. With skilled and trained staff, we could improve so many aspects at the airport. I am looking forward to a better airport with the completion of the airport development project. 

How do you think luxury travelers’ expectations have changed in recent years?

I believe that luxury travelers are now seeking exclusive and memorable experiences; not just a beautiful holiday destination. With a plethora of luxury destinations around the world, they are now making their vacation choice based on one-of-a-kind experiences and tailored activities. Luxury is about tailored experiences which cannot be easily replicated elsewhere. Luxury personalized experiences vary for each guest; some seek adventure and adrenalin, while others seek comfort and ease. At One&Only Reethi Rah we recognize this and offer diverse unique experiences for every guest.

 

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