The Restaurant Manager of the Year, sponsored by Patchi, title went to Mikhaiel Al Mari of The Exchange Grill, Fairmont Dubai in yesterday’s Caterer Middle East Awards 2012.

The judges said Al Mari is a person his colleagues could look up to and respect.

“His specially designed menus have boosted covers and sales revenue. His excellent management skills have led to over half his team being promoted this last year. He feels a personal responsibility in ensuring every diner’s experience at this outlet is one to remember,” they added.

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Al Mari was up against the other four finalists comprising West 14th Dubai Oceana Beach Club manager Kevin Graham; Burj Al Arab Dubai restaurant manager – Tracey Mu; Tribes, Mall of the Emirates Dubai restaurant manager Majdi Romdhani and Atlantis The Palm Dubai restaurant manager – Rostang Jonathan Vercoutere.

Tracey Mu, was highly commended by the judges, who said she was “a sensitive manager yet exceptionally strong in boosting results”.

Luba Ribinskaya, corporate sales executive, Patchi presented the award to Al Mari. 

Winning the award has fuelled his intentions to take The Exchange Grill to the next level, he told journalists upon receiving the award: "I’m planning to get The Exchange Grill to the next level and that’s all because of the team who are always consistent with the service and the chefs behind the scenes doing great presentation, consistent and high quality food".

"I’m so so happy to win the award. I wasn’t expecting it, but it was really great – and because of the team – they got me to this place, I’m very proud of them," Al Mari added.

The fourth Caterer Middle East Awards 2012 were held on September 26 in a glamorous ceremony at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai.