Excellence and inclusivity are integral to Arshad Mahmood leadership mantra, As general manager of Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat, he shares his experiences in hospitality and his vision for the five-star property.
How would you describe your journey in the hospitality industry?
My journey in hospitality began with a deep passion for service and hospitality while studying at Neuchâtel Campus, Switzerland. After graduating, I had the opportunity to work in various roles across different hotels, gaining invaluable industry experience. Throughout the years, I have learned from exceptional mentors, faced diverse challenges and built expertise in the field of hospitality. Furthermore, these experiences have allowed me to contribute to the success of numerous hotel operations across various regions. Each step in my career has reinforced my unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and ensuring operational excellence within the hospitality sector.
How do you approach leading and managing a diverse team within a five-star hotel environment like Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat?
At Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat, we strongly prioritize fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture for achieving success. Moreover, I lead by encouraging open communication, promoting mutual respect and acknowledging the strengths of each individual. By embracing diverse backgrounds and perspectives, we continuously enhance the overall quality of our guest experiences. Additionally, I set clear expectations while providing continuous support, cultivating a positive and empowering work environment. With our diverse and dynamic team, we creatively cater to the unique needs of every guest in this highly competitive global industry.
As someone multilingual who has worked around the world, how do you navigate cultural differences?
I use these traits to navigate cultural differences; thus, I embrace cultural awareness, empathy and adaptability in my interactions. Consequently, I approach each interaction with an open mind, seeking to understand and respect various cultural differences fully. Furthermore, effective communication, active listening and flexibility are key to building rapport and bridging cultural gaps effectively. By valuing diversity and fostering inclusivity, collaboration and harmony are promoted within the team, ensuring exceptional guest experiences that resonate across cultures.
How do you tailor your approach to effectively communicate and collaborate across diverse teams?
To foster effective communication and collaboration among diverse teams, I adhere to key principles such as maintaining an open-door policy and embracing democratic leadership. A priority is made to comprehend each team member’s viewpoint, needs and concerns while respecting cultural nuances. Remaining flexible and receptive, I adapt my communication style to accommodate individual preferences, promoting engagement and inclusivity. By cultivating trusting relationships based on mutual respect, constructive feedback is offered in a supportive manner, emphasizing strengths and areas for growth while being mindful of cultural sensitivities. Ultimately, our objective is to cultivate an environment of inclusivity and collaboration, empowering every team member to contribute their utmost.
How do you envision the future of Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat?
Muscat has long needed a five-star corporate downtown property, thus filling a significant gap in the heart of the city. My vision for Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat is centered on innovation, sustainability and being a hub for varied dining experiences. Moreover, my team and I are committed to being the best in our field through unwavering dedication. We aim to bolster our reputation as a leading destination by utilizing cutting-edge technology, high service standards and modern amenities that surpass guest expectations consistently. Additionally, we will cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and actively invest in our team’s development to enhance skills. Consequently, we will transform Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Ghala Muscat into a dynamic center of hospitality excellence that meets evolving needs. Our unwavering dedication to quality, sustainability and guest satisfaction will distinctly set us apart in the industry.
