Kuwait's Khaled Mourad scoops Finance/Procurement Manager win

Walking away with the first Hotelier Express Award of the night was Khaled Mourad, the financial controller of Al Jahra Copthrone Hotel & Resort, Kuwait, who was named the Finance/Procurement Manager of the Year.

The award was presented by Duni area manager Marcus Toft to Mourad, and the highly commended nominee was revealed to be Manoj Kumar from Holiday Inn Bur Dubai Embassy (meet all the shortlisted nominees here).

He was recognised by the judges for maintaining departmental profits which led to better GOP. Mourad contributed to the hotel’s financial growth over the last few years, while overcoming significant business challenges and barriers.

Stating that the team has a really good relationship with the owner, Mourad noted: "In Kuwait the price of water and electricity have really gone up, but we have managed that and things are running smoothly. We have exceeded budget, and had really fantastic numbers." Costs have been controlled effectively he said, without affecting the guests' needs and demands.

Team-building has been important for Mourad and he said the leadership style is slightly different in Kuwait, adding that the team has "a real family spirit during work".

The Hotelier Express Awards 2018 took place at the Grosvenor House Dubai on February 28, 2018, and was supported by a range of industry partners including: A. Ronai, Duni, Diversey, Guest Supply, MMI, OSN For Business, and Tint.