JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort announces its leadership team as it prepares for a December 2024 opening. Located in the beautiful Emboodhu Finolhu lagoon, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, the resort features 80 eco-friendly private pool villas with stunning ocean views, spacious terraces, and a serene lagoon for swimming.
This is the second JW Marriott property and the eighth addition to the Marriott Bonvoy resorts in the Maldives, offering a world-class experience complemented by a Spa by JW and exceptional gastronomic offerings that highlight the best of local and international cuisine.
With a remarkable global journey that has taken him from the US to Korea, China, Fiji, and the Maldives, Chef Allen brings his creative culinary flair to JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort as Executive Chef. In this role, he will oversee all resort culinary operations at the resort, infusing his extensive Michelin-star experience with a passion for sustainability. Chef Allen’s experience spans prestigious international kitchens, where he strikes a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, dedicating himself to sourcing the finest local ingredients. A native of Korea, his impressive background includes leading multi-venue operations and cooking for notable VIPs such as former U.S. President Barack Obama and ex-President of Fiji Jioji Konrote, among other distinguished dignitaries. Chef Allen’s vision aligns perfectly with the JW brand and the resort, promising a dining experience that is both innovative and mindful.
Haryani Ary brings over 20 years of rich experience in luxury spa management across Indonesia and the Maldives to her role as Director of Spa. Previously at The St. Regis Jakarta, she has cultivated a deep understanding of wellness, aesthetics, and the art of relaxation. Leading a dedicated team, she will oversee all spa and wellness offerings at the resort, enhancing the guest experience at the exceptional Spa by JW. Her worldly knowledge and unwavering passion for curating unique wellness moments promise to elevate the standard of relaxation and rejuvenation. With an eye for innovation, Haryani will introduce refreshing treatments and experiences that harmonize with the stunning Maldivian surroundings, inviting guests to embark on a transformative journey of well-being.
Mifraz re-joins Marriott as Director of Finance, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record that will guide the growth of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. After a brief stint with Hard Rock Hotels, he is excited to return to the Marriott family, where he will oversee finance and accounting, strategic procurement, legal matters, and information systems. Having risen through the ranks at Marriott International, Mohamed has worked in various financial operations roles. Before his time with Marriott, he served as Senior Auditor with Ernst & Young, gaining invaluable insights into financial operations. At JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll, Mifraz is poised to make a significant impact, leveraging his expertise to ensure the resort’s financial health and operational efficiency.
With an illustrious 25-year tenure in the hospitality industry, Ajith takes on the role of Director of Engineering at the resort. His vast technical expertise and focus on sustainability will be instrumental in driving the operational maintenance of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. He has consistently excelled in overseeing building structures and mechanical and electrical systems, as well as implementing effective preventive maintenance programs and energy conservation practices. His extensive experience encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including pre-opening engineering activities and project management in global chains like Shangri-La and Minor Group. His diverse expertise makes him the ideal candidate to oversee engineering operations and lead the team to even greater success.
Shivangi, a seasoned hotelier with over 15 years of distinguished experience, joins JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort as Director of Quality and Training. Her remarkable journey includes her recent role at JW Marriott Kolkata, where she played a pivotal role in leading her team to achieve the highest LQA Standards score in the APAC region—a testament to her commitment to quality and brand excellence. In her new role, she is dedicated to embodying and promoting the values and philosophy of JW Marriott. She envisions creating a vibrant learning environment that inspires every team member to reach their full potential. By enhancing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for driving business results, she aims to elevate the guest experience to unparalleled heights. Shivangi’s expertise is evident in her ability to audit standard operating procedures, ensuring that every aspect of service reflects the luxury and attention to detail for which JW Marriott is renowned.
Fayaz, an experienced and seasoned housekeeper, brings over 25 years of expertise in luxury hospitality to JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. With a robust background within the Marriott family, Fayaz is well-versed in the nuances of exceptional service and operational excellence. As Executive Housekeeper, he will oversee all housekeeping operations, ensuring that every corner of the resort reflects the highest standards of cleanliness and comfort. His extensive experience encompasses staff management, operational efficiency, and a meticulous attention to luxury standards, all aimed at delivering exceptional guest satisfaction.
Ahmed Azeef brings a distinguished background in luxury hospitality to his role as Front Office Manager, having worked at renowned establishments such as W Maldives, Hilton, and Gili Lankan Fushi. Ahmed is committed to leading a front office team that embodies the true essence of luxury and delivers the exceptional service that JW guests expect. He will oversee all facets of front office operations, ensuring a seamless experience for every guest who arrives at the idyllic resort. As he steps into this pivotal role, he is ready to craft an unforgettable journey for guests, making their stay at JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort a luxurious escape where every detail is attended to with care and precision.
“Commenting on the appointments, Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, remarked, “We are excited to announce the opening of the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. Our pre-opening team is composed of multinational experts with global experience, exceptional credentials, and proven achievements, complemented by our outstanding product offerings. I have full confidence in their ability to leverage this opportunity, strategically position the resort for success, and set new standards in service and product excellence. We eagerly await the arrival of our first guests and are committed to delivering the renowned services associated with the JW brand and Marriott International.”
