Purchasing manager at Danat’s Tilal Liwa Jerome Nazareth reveals the procurement strategy at his property in Abu Dhabi’s Rub Al Khali desert
How long have you been in hotel purchasing?
I have five years experience in procurement and a total of 15 years in hotels.I’ve been proudly working at Tilal Liwa since pre-opening.
What products are you on the lookout for?
Tilal Liwa Hotel is a perfect getaway from the bustle and hustle of city life. Having this fact in mind, I’m always searching for top products with high quality materials.
| Advertisement |
We believe in providing high quality products either in food, beverages or equipments. Being in charge of procurement, l do the purchasing for all aspects such as food & beverage items, silverware, glassware, quality of linen fabrics, and selection of new crockery / equipment.
We are in the process of increasing our amenities, activities and facilities focusing on value added benefits for the guests’ satisfaction.
What area of your hotel are you the most proud of?
I’m proud of Tilal Liwa Hotel as a whole, but particularly very proud of the service standards provided to our valued guests. All employees from front and support line understand their role and the hotel concept. We are happy to go the extra mile to exceed expectations.
Tell us about one of your most successful deals?
We are highly demanding when it comes to hotel operating items. Lately we finalised logistics for the following theme nights; Mediterranean, Latino and Arabic.
The challenge was not only to provide the equipment, but to totally change the atmosphere of our main dining room, with materials, music, linen, decoration and staff uniforms.
Finally when all aspects were ready, we were very impressed with the outcome. Also, we have recently introduced our latest attraction, the Oasis, two Arabian tents in the desert — our suppliers have provided the best quality of luxury tents .
How is procurement evolving in the hotel industry?
The hotel purchasing function supports virtually every department, whether purchasing chemicals for housekeeping or stewarding, office supplies for marketing, computer supplies for accounting, or food and beverage.
In our current economy, expectations of profitability have changed. Profitability is required, along with maintaining the level of quality. This has brought a new level of interest in purchasing function and greater importance on cost savings.
What does a supplier have to do to impress you?
Suppliers know the hotel requires much more than obtaining three bids and circling the lowest price. Suppliers now focus on timely delivery of goods, and ensure food quality is maintained to the highest standard which is HACCP certified.
Search our database of more than 2,700 industry companies
