Claudio Roscigno, director of sales and marketing at Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Claudio Roscigno, director of sales and marketing at Rosewood Abu Dhabi.

Claudio Roscigno, director of sales and marketing at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, is keen to adapt his leadership approach to his new role

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality industry?

I was inspired to enter the hospitality industry because of a passion for travelling that my family instilled in me when I was very young. I enjoy being part of the best memories of guests, and being able to travel and be exposed to new cultures.

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How has your previous work experience inspired your management philosophy?

I have been fortunate enough to work with inspiring leaders from whom I have learned how important it is to nurture talent, the significance of details in our daily work, how to inspire creativity and, most importantly, how to celebrate every day and have fun at work.

Have you experienced any major moments that have shaped your career to date?

My entire journey until today has shaped my career. I have always worked in challenging destinations and markets, with different cultures. These have included the UK, Lebanon, Mauritius, Qatar, Zambia and the Czech Republic. I have learned that you cannot use the same leadership approach everywhere; you need to think differently every time.

What aspect of your new position are you most excited about?

My team and to have joined Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and to be part of the development of Al Maryah Island.

Where has been your favourite place to work so far, and how does it compare to your current position?

I have enjoyed all the different destinations that I have been exposed to; they were all unique. Rosewood Abu Dhabi is a really inspiring place to work. The company offers great opportunities to grow professionally and really invests in all of its associates.

How does working in your current position differ from any of the other hotel where you’ve worked?

I would say the energy, the passion and commitment to create a memorable journey for all our guests, as well my fantastic colleagues is what makes Rosewood Abu Dhabi the best hotel in the capital.

What new initiatives or programmes are you planning to introduce as part of your new position?

The Rosewood Sense of Place philosophy is new to me as I didn’t have this in my previous company, but our guests really enjoy it. I want to incorporate this philosophy into all marketing activities and integrate it into the way we work.

My Goals

1 Inspiring new managers to become leaders. I believe we should grow our associates and bring out the best in them. Our current sales and marketing team is very young, yet full of energy and commitment to excel. I hope to be an inspiration to them and help them grow to be future leaders of the department.

2 Being part of the successful growth of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in the region and supporting the opening of our sister hotel, Rosewood Dubai. RHR is growing in the region: with the opening of Rosewood Dubai, we will have two properties in the UAE and two properties in KSA. I would love to be part of this growth and grow regionally within RHR.

3 I’m about to start a family and I have a daughter. I would like to begin investing in her future now to make a difference.

4 Keep investing in art and young artists while developing my creativity. Since I arrived, I have seen lots of potential in young local artists. We have the perfect platform to introduce them to guests and support their growth. We need to allow their personalities to shine through.

5 We can always do more to support the local community and I have made it one of my goals to be part of the support network. It is the little things that make the difference. From runs, to charity work, to green initiatives you will see me around supporting these causes.

My CV

2013-2014: Four Seasons Hotel Prague, director of marketing
2012-2013: InterContinental Lusaka, director of sales and marketing
2011-2012: Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts, regional director of sales and marketing, EMEA
2009-2011: InterContinental Le Vendome Beirut, director of sales and marketing