Purchasing Power: Stelios Damianelis

How long have you been in hotel purchasing?

I started my career as an intern nine years ago, in 2007.

What products are you on the lookout for?

We’re constantly on the lookout for products that will stand out, delight our guests and internal customers, whilst adding value to the role of procurement within the organisation.

What area of your hotel are you most proud of?

I am very proud of our restaurants, especially our involvement in influencing and driving more creative elements of our business, such as our award-winning picnic brunch at Al Badia Golf Club & the mashawi nights in Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City.

Tell us about one of your most successful deals?

Over the years we have negotiated and signed some great partnerships that not only ensure a superior guest experience but have also enhanced the infrastructure of our colleagues. It is a lovely feeling to be thanked by random colleagues who are happy with the quality of our food.

What does a supplier have to do to impress you?

Suppliers in the UAE tend to offer a wide array of products and services, often at the expense of specialisation. We prefer to work with vendors who offer less in terms of product range, but more in terms of quality.