Awards Countdown: F&B Manager of the Year

Emily Shaw F&B manager Desert Palm.

Emily Shaw
F&B manager
Desert Palm

Emily started out as the assistant F&B operations manager in September 2007, but was swiftly promoted to the role of F&B operations manager and then F&B manager, proving her outstanding commitment, passion and vision in increasing revenue and building a strong operational department that focuses on guest satisfaction.

Initially working with a small team that did not include an assistant, she doubled her efforts in order to work both back of house with ordering, building and maintaining supplier relationships, menu preparation, training plans, costings, recruitment and revenue generating ideas, while simultaneously working on the floor to assist with operations, speaking to guests, working as a waitress, busser and bartender.

During the past year and half Emily has produced some great ideas such as Movies and Munchies, an innovative concept of watching international blockbusters that have not been shown on terrestrial TV in Dubai, while sitting in the infinity pool.

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Desert Palm was awarded Best Steakhouse in Dubai and Epicure Best International Restaurant in the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2009 — a tremendous achievement for the property within its first year of opening.

Emily's dedication to staff training has meant many of her junior associates have followed suit and progressed quickly in their own careers.

It is her dedication and passion that means from the guest looking for a low-key retreat to the VIP looking for exceptional entertainment all come away from the Desert Palm singing the praises of Emily and her team.