Hotelier Awards 2017 shortlist: Fitness/Spa Person
Hotelier Middle East is pleased to reveal the six finalists in the Fitness/Spa Person of the Year category for the 2017 edition of the Hotelier Middle East Awards.
If you'd like to meet last year's winners of all categories, click here to find out more...
Click through to find out who has been shortlisted this year... and take a look at last year's event in the video below!
Danielle Hammond, spa & recreation manager, Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates
Danielle Hammond moved to the UAE in 2013, and joined the team at Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel in 2016. Hammond joined at a time when the spa was undergoing a revamp, and she set about completely repositioning the spa with new treatments, products, collateral and features. She introduced a new signature product, launched a new menu, and hired a new team. Her work has resulted in an increase in spa and fitness revenues. SHe has also founded and runs a spa recognition programme that works with other spas in the city to give incentives to staff members and conduct treatment audits.
Eden II Coliflores Arceo, gym instructor, Crowne Plaza Jeddah
From October of 2013, Eden Arceo started working as a gym instructor on property, after which he was promoted to shift leader. He also studied massage therapy to serve the hotel guests better, resulting in creating regular guests for the spa.
Hazel Rynjah, spa therapist, The Oberoi Dubai
Hazel Rynjah joined The Oberoi Dubai in 2014, with previous experience at Taj Hotels and Resorts. Rynjah's name has always been highlighted in TripAdvisor reviews, and has been recognised by the hotel for her efforts.
Maher Al Riyami, mountain guru, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
After attending the local school, Maher Al Riyami moved to the nearby ancient city of Nizwa to study engineering before returning to his mountain roots by moving to Saiq, another nearby village. Following a stint at a neighbouring resort, during which he gained valuable behind-the-scenes experience, Maher joined Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort with the recreation pre-opening team. He has been responsible for mapping out the mountain, allowing guests to discover secret caves and abandoned villages. In addition, he has introduced the ’Sundown Ceremony’, which celebrates Omani culture by chanting a traditional Arabic song accompanied by drums.
Nadia Bartolomeo, director of spa, Palazzo Versace Dubai
In 2016, Nadia Bartolomeo joined Palazzo Versace Dubai as its director of spa, and has been in the UAE since 2012. Bartolomeo has implemented excellent cost control into the department to maximise profitability, and her leadership has driven low staff turnover and a motivated, loyal, engaged and passionate team. She provides the team opportunities to experience the spa's treatments to gain a better understanding of its offerings, and has creating a training presentation for all new joiners to the hotel so they can learn more about the spa. She listens to guest feedback, and reacts immediately to introduce innovative new products and treatments.
Rovino Miranda, fitness trainer, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
Rovino Miranda moved to Dubai in 2013, and joined Club Marquis at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai in January 2016. Before joining the hotel, he first visited to attend a fitness expo that was taking place. He was taking part in the Creative Exercise category which he went on to win and was titled King of Six Packs. The gym manager was in attendance and was blown away by Rovino’s talent which earned him a job offer at the hotel. His efforts have led to an increase in personal training uptake by guests, and he has also helped guests with rehabilitation needs.