Robert Willock
Editorial director, ITP Media Group
Robert Willock leads the teams of journalists that produce some of the Middle East’s foremost trade publications, websites and events, including Hotelier Middle East and Caterer Middle East, Construction Week, Oil & Gas Middle East, and Commercial Interior Design. An award-winning editor and publisher with more than 20 years’ experience, he has managed business magazines, online, and face-to-face media in many sectors, including transport, construction, sports, HR and retail. After working at William Reed Business Media — which publishes market-leading UK hospitality titles The Publican’s Morning Advertiser, Restaurant Magazine and M&C Report — he moved to Dubai in 2015 to gain international experience.
What will make a Hotelier Awards nomination stand out?
“My advice for entrants is simply to tell a story. What was the problem or opportunity, what did you do about it, and what was the result? If you can explain that in clear terms, supported by persuasive facts, figures and testimonials, then you have made the judges’ job very easy and given yourself the best chance of success.”
Naim Maadad
CEO, Gates Hospitality
With more than 28 years’ experience across Australia, Asia and the Middle East in various senior management roles, Naim Maadad has covered a wide spectrum of positions within senior leadership, including the role of managing director for both Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas and The Anantara Group. Based in the Middle East for the past 18 years, Maadad established Gates Hospitality in 2012, the parent company of home-grown brands such as; Ultra Brasserie, Reform Social & Grill Dubai, The Black Lion, Bistro Des Arts and ownership of Six Senses Zighy Bay. 2017 has seen the launch of Folly by Nick & Scott, as well as Publique, and Via Veneto Osteria e Cucina was revealed in Q2 2017.
What will make a Hotelier Awards nomination stand out?
“I’m looking for professional individuals with experience, longevity in their roles, who are people-oriented, have a resilient attitude, and show concern for the environment and sustainability, in their role — in whatever manner feasible.”
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