NEW RECRUIT: Hyatt Regency Riyadh's Nizar Weshah
Nizar Weshah, new general manager of the Hyatt Regency Riyadh on Olaya Road, hopes to establish the hotel as one of the best in the city when it opens in quarter four, 2013. The property is currently one of seven hotels under development by Hyatt the in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
What first attracted you to the hospitality industry?
My father strongly recommended this industry when I was going to join college, saying that this is the industry of the future.
In your past roles, what was your favourite destination to work in?
Work is like a commitment and is a different experience in every destination; and each destination has its individual benefits.
You have joined the Hyatt Regency Riyadh during the preopening; what stage was the project at when you joined?
I joined Hyatt Regency Riyadh as part of the preopening team. The hotel is currently still under construction and will open in the last quarter of 2013.
What were your first jobs to prioritise upon joining?
I am familiarising myself with the project and whereabouts in Riyadh city to better study the market. The pre-opening team is not assigned yet, so I am also currently in the process of selecting the team and looking to hire the right people for each of the concerned departments.
How does the working environment in Saudi Arabia differ to other destinations?
Working in Saudi Arabia has been a great learning experience so far. I held the position of director of operations at Park Hyatt Jeddah for the last four years and I really enjoyed working with Saudi employees and serving Saudi guests.
With a number of new hotels coming online in Riyadh, how do you intend to establish the Hyatt Regency as a key contender?
Hyatt has a long history in Saudi Arabia. In fact, it was first introduced in the Saudi Arabian market in 1980 with the opening of a Hyatt Regency in Riyadh. This makes it easier as the brand is already established and known in the market.
What do you like most about being a general manager?
Being a general manager is a rewarding job and what I like about it is that there is even more responsibility and challenges.
What do you like least about being a general manager?
In general, I prefer not to micro-manage tasks.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
I would see myself as becoming an area director.
What is your favourite destination to holiday in?
Bali, Indonesia.
My CV
- 2010-2012: Park Hyatt Jeddah, director of operations
- 2008-2010: Park Hyatt Jeddah, EAM food & beverage
- 2006-2008: Hyatt Regency Belgrade, director of food & beverage
- 2003-2006: Grand Hyatt Muscat, director of food & beverage
- 2002-2003: Hyatt Hotels Baku, assistant director of food & beverage
- 1999-2002: Grand Hyatt Amman, assistant director of food & beverage
- 1998-1999: Grand Hyatt Amman, outlet manager