The Hotel Manager of Le Méridien City Center Doha talks management philosophy and bucket-list ambitions.

What first drew you to the hospitality sector, how old were you when you first knew this was what you wanted to do?
What drew me to hospitality was my love for travel and fascination with different cultures. I realised at 16 that I could turn this passion into a career, so I studied tourism. Later, I earned a degree in hotel management, where I learned the importance of creating unforgettable experiences for guests. For me, hospitality is about connecting people from all walks of life and making them feel at home. Ever since, I’ve known this is my true calling.

Your career has progressed quickly and you have undertaken several key management roles. What is your management philosophy and leadership style that’s led to this success?
My management philosophy centres around collaboration, empowerment and continuous growth. I believe that a successful team is built on trust and open communication. I strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard, as I think diverse perspectives lead to the best solutions.
My leadership style is participative; I encourage team members to share their ideas and take ownership of their roles. By empowering them to make decisions, I foster a sense of accountability and motivation. I also prioritise mentorship and development, guiding my team members in their professional growth, which not only benefits them but strengthens the entire organisation.
This approach has led to my quick progression in management roles, as I’ve seen firsthand how a motivated and engaged team can drive success. I believe that when people feel supported and inspired, they are more likely to go above and beyond, which ultimately contributes to achieving our shared goals.

What are your plans for your role at Le Méridien City Center Doha? Any new developments you can share with our readers?
In my role at Le Méridien City Center Doha, I am excited to focus on several key initiatives that will enhance our guest experience and drive growth. We have something amazing coming soon in our food and beverage venues that I believe will elevate our culinary offerings and attract both locals and visitors.
Additionally, we are placing a strong emphasis on expanding our outside catering business, which will allow us to reach a broader audience and showcase our exceptional services beyond the hotel. Moreover, I am committed to implementing strategies that will help us grow our room occupancy rates, ensuring that more guests can experience the unique charm and hospitality that Le Méridien offers.
I’m eager to collaborate with our talented team to bring these initiatives to life and create memorable experiences for our guests.

You have been in Qatar for several years. What three experiences would you recommend visitors to try?
Qatar offers a variety of experiences, including desert safaris, exploring Souq Waqif and visiting museums like the Sheikh Faisal Museum which is one of my favourites. Before diving into these adventures, start your journey with a meal at La Maison De L’Entrecôte at our Hotel. This restaurant combines classic French charm with modern sophistication, perfect to fuel up before exploring all that Qatar has to offer!

What’s on your personal bucket list for the future in terms of travel, new skills to learn or something you would love to try?
On my personal bucket list for the future, I have a few exciting goals. First and foremost, I’ve always wanted to travel to many cities around the world. I’m captivated by the diverse cultures, stunning landscapes and unique experiences each destination offers.
In addition to travel, I’m eager to enhance my skills by learning more Arabic. I believe that deepening my understanding of the language will not only enrich my personal experiences in the region but also strengthen my professional relationships and opportunities.
I am also passionate about working toward foundations that empower women in business. Supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and help women succeed in their careers is incredibly important to me.
Overall, my bucket list is filled with experiences that allow me to explore the world while promoting personal growth, cultural understanding and social impact. ✤