LM: How has the financial downturn affected your role at the hotel and how have you responded to new challenges?
Surprisingly we haven’t felt a drop in attendance numbers; people are still training — probably even more so now.
The current situation has placed a great deal of pressure on the general population.
It is understood that a good workout is a great way to relieve stress and to clear your mind; I think people value that.
LM: You were commended for your innovative thinking . What innovative campaigns or initiatives have you imposed in your role?
They say diamonds are formed under pressure and I believe that people express their true potential when challenged or put under pressure. That is why I always look for a challenge and enjoy it so much.
I watch, I preach and I do. I strive to set an example and I put everything into it.
You have to love what you do, people feel that and are drawn to it — innovation flows naturally from that because you are focussed on personal and professional growth. One of the best examples I have of this is how I encourage people to get back into a routine after our long summers. It is always challenging for people to work up the motivation to start training again when they come back from a long relaxing holiday.
I like to send them a personalised message, welcoming them back and asking about their vacation. Most are so surprised and delighted at the personal touch and the consideration, that they call me straight away to make an appointment!
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LM: What is your ambition?
I am not planning on a career change anytime soon. I would like to stay and grow with Jumeirah as they have given me the most incredible support. I would like to be more involved with inspiring, training and motivation the staff around me.
THE HIGHLY COMMENDED NOMINEES
For the first time in the event’s six-year history, the 2009 Hotelier Middle East Awards recognised two highly-commended candidates in each category.
In the Fitness and Recreation of the Year category, Babu Mohan Das and Asela Jayaweera were selected by the judges as highly-commended nominees. Those who nominated Babu, a recreation supervisor at InterContinental Muscat, said he was always ready to go the extra mile and once volunteered to work a double shift for 45 days in a row.
Jayaweera, the recreation manager at InterContinental Doha was described as a great role model by those who nominated him. His colleagues recognised him for reducing costs and boosting profits for the hotel’s recreation department.
FITNESS AND RECREATION PERSON OF THE YEAR SHORTLIST:
• Llie Popa, The Address Downtown Burj Dubai
• Babu Mohan Das, InterContinental Muscat, Oman
• Luminita Stoican, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai
• Chris Denil, Mina Seyahi Complex
• Asela Jayaweera, InterContinental Doha, Qatar
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