The Multi-Property General Manager for Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments City Center Doha on the draw of the Gulf, hospitality trends and a connection with nature.

Congratulations on your recent appointment. What prompted you to make the move from Canada to Qatar?
Thank you. Making the move from Canada to Qatar was both a professional and personal decision. I have always been drawn to markets that are dynamic, fast evolving and full of opportunity and Doha certainly fits that description. The Middle East has such a rich hospitality culture, and I was excited by the chance to lead two distinct Marriott properties here, work with diverse teams and contribute to the growth of a market that’s constantly pushing forward.

What are your plans for the properties for the rest of the year and into the future – any new developments you can tell us about?
We have some exciting momentum building across both properties. At Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, our focus remains on continuously elevating the guest experience from innovative and refreshed F&B (food and beverage) programming to reimagining spaces in ways that spark connection and tell a story through every detail.
At Marriott Executive Apartments, we are already underway with a renovation project that will introduce a refreshed, homeaway- from-home experience for our long-stay guests. Expect a more modern, comfortable living space making long stays feel effortless and enjoyable.

What are your thoughts on current trends in the hospitality industry both in Qatar and the wider region and how will you position your properties to take advantage of these?
One of the biggest shifts we are seeing is the growing expectation for personalised, purpose-driven hospitality. Guests today want more than just a stay, they want experiences that reflect local culture, wellness, sustainability and authenticity. Qatar, in particular, is becoming a hub for experiential travel, with events, gastronomy and design playing major roles.
Our approach is to stay agile and listen, whether it’s through evolving our culinary offerings, enhancing wellness touchpoints or integrating tech in smarter ways. Both our properties are uniquely positioned to respond to these trends, offering scale, diversity and flexibility while remaining deeply people centric.

If you could swap jobs with one position across your properties for a day, what would it be and why?
I would choose to be a doorman, without question. There is something incredibly powerful about being the first and last impression a guest has. A warm smile, a heartfelt welcome or a thoughtful farewell can completely shape someone’s stay. It’s a role filled with quiet impact, and I have always admired how our doormen manage to create those memorable, emotional touchpoints, sometimes with just a few words.

On a more personal note, what’s at the top of your bucket list?
Africa has always been at the top of my list, especially those magical moments you see in travel stories where you are having breakfast while giraffes gently stroll past you. It’s that unique connection with nature that really speaks to me.
Now that I have moved to the Middle East, I am also hoping to explore more of the region. Egypt and Jordan are both high on my travel radar which are destinations rich with history, culture and timeless beauty. There is so much to see, learn and experience in this part of the world, and I am really looking forward to the journey. ✤