Tell us about your career; what inspired you to get into hospitality?
I wanted to be a journalist or work in broadcasting and when in secondary school, my guidance counsellor said I would be very well suited to the hotel industry. Nobody in my family was in the hotel industry, so I never thought about it. But once I looked into it, checked out my future college Shannon College of Hotel Management, I was hooked and have never looked back.
How important is it to have good mentors when learning the hospitality trade?
I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who shaped my perspective. I have worked with great General Managers who all have shaped me in some form or another. One former general manager taught me the importance of leadership by example, while a seasoned hotelier emphasised the significance of attention to detail. I think it is very important in the hotel industry to have those people that you can call on, that have seen it all before, so can guide you and be a sounding board in what is a tough but very rewarding role.
You have worked in hospitality in Europe, USA and the Middle East; are there any differences between the regions’ approaches to hospitality?
Absolutely, each region has its unique flair. Europe tends to focus on rich traditions and personalised service, while the USA emphasises efficiency and innovation. The Middle East, particularly, blends both with a strong emphasis on hospitality rooted in cultural values and warmth. Having Ladies and Gentlemen from the locale working in these great iconic luxury hotels is critical to maintaining these differences as it is this experience that our guests enjoy when travelling to the different regions.
What drew you to The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert?
The Ritz-Carlton brand stands for luxury and exceptional service, which aligns with my own values. I was drawn to the opportunity to lead a talented team in a stunning desert setting, creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. As General Manager, I oversee operations and ensure our high standards are consistently met. Personalised service, attention to detail, and creating unique experiences that connect guests with the local culture and environment are key aspects to any stay at this stunning property. It's our aim for every guest to feel special and valued throughout their stay.
Sustainability is a major topic for all businesses around the globe; can hotels still offer a luxurious experience while maintaining a drive to be sustainable?
Absolutely! Luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. At The Ritz-Carlton, we integrate eco-friendly practices into our operations, ensuring that guests enjoy a high-end experience while also being mindful of the environment. Many guests appreciate these efforts and find them to enhance their stay.
There are plenty of exciting activations happening at the property? Could you tell us a little more?
We are currently working on expanding our wellness offerings, introducing new culinary experiences such as an exclusive Zuma pop-up experience and the grand opening of Farmhouse by Syrco that highlights local flavours and sustainably sourced produce. There are also a plethora of upcoming events that celebrate both the desert landscape and our commitment to exceptional service.
We also recently launched our Signature Villas which marks a new chapter in luxury living, where refined comfort meets the raw beauty of nature. Nestled in a secluded desert oasis, our luxurious villas blend modern elegance with the natural surroundings, offering a private retreat like no other. Our guests enjoy unparalleled privacy, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views of the desert, designed for those seeking both tranquillity and exclusivity. Each villa features an expansive outdoor living area, a temperature-controlled private pool, and a terrace. The villas also offer luxurious amenities such as a Technogym-equipped fitness studio, a dedicated butler with an in-house chef option, and bicycles for exploring the resort’s serene surroundings.
What is your definition of luxury?
For me, luxury is about authenticity and the experience, rather than just material wealth. However, most importantly it is about the people. Our Ladies and Gentlemen whose experience ensures that our guests are looked after in a way where they get the feeling of being valued and cared for in an environment that embraces comfort and elegance.
Ras Al Khaimah has seen a surge in tourism over the past year; do you have any recommendations for guests visiting the emirate (restaurants, beaches, landmarks etc.)?
Definitely! Guests should explore the stunning Jebel Jais mountains for breathtaking views and adventure sports. The local dining scene is vibrant with great beaches and fantastic hotels - perfect for relaxation. For myself, I enjoy exploring the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah, whether it’s hiking in the mountains, relaxing at the beach or playing a round of golf.
_0003-v2-gb5xxk.jpg)
If you could travel to one place tomorrow, what destination would that be and why?
I would love to visit Japan. The blend of rich culture, incredible cuisine, and natural beauty fascinates me. If not Japan, take me back home to the West of Ireland!
Anything else to add?
I’m excited about the future of hospitality and the role we play in creating sustainable and memorable experiences for our guests in this beautiful resort and Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. I look forward to welcoming everyone to The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert!
