Staff Spotlight: Kais Mbarek
The Resort Group PLC is celebrating 10 years in 2017 and as part of the celebrations, we have been talking to team members from across the Group and our partners. This week, we hear from Kais, the long-serving and talented General Manager who has been impressing guests from day one.
1. What is your name and job title?
Kais Mbarek, General Manager of MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa and Sol Dunas Resort with a total of 1157 rooms/suites and 720 employees.
2. Take us through an average day
A normal day would be to greet my staff and my head of departments early in the morning when we all have a coffee together in the hotel bar. It is great to start the day with conversation and jokes, as well as the all-important reminders… this lets us start the day with positive vibes. I also get a follow-up on the daily operation of the food and beverage outlets, garden, housekeeping, etc. I keep updated with emails all day long, this helps me know and control what´s going on in our Resort, acting whenever is necessary. Fortunately for me, my team is so good and professional that the most difficult task becomes an easy one.
3. How long have you worked at the Resort?
My adventure began with The Resort Group PLC 6 years ago.
4. What did you do before you worked at the Resort?
Before this job, I was working in MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort as Food & Beverage Director surrounded by amazing staff that helped me since my arrival in Cape Verde.
5. What do you love most about your job?
I love to recognise the potential of my staff and train them to become great professionals, as the new future for the tourism sector. My main aim is to open the doors of hotel management to everyone who is willing to learn towards our common goal. The consequences of this investment will hopefully be the recognition and rewards of the hospitality industry.
6. What has been your proudest moment so far?
The greatest professional achievement so far took place on August 30th 2017 when I was awarded in Cape Town as best General Manager in Africa 2017. This recognition had a far-reaching repercussion on media sites and on Cape Verdean Television, where I took the opportunity to promote the Resort.
7. What kind of thing do customers ask you to help with?
Customers mainly ask me about availability and the possibility to purchase apartments or villas inside the Resort. They ask also about events organization, such as weddings.
8. What is the one thing you think people should always bring to Cape Verde?
A person who wants to come to Cape Verde for a vacation should always take the spirit of adventure or allow it to develop in such amazing destination.
9. How has The Resort Group helped the Island?
Throughout the excellent work of The Resort Group, it has contributed to the development of the island to become a better-known destination. This has led to the reduction of unemployment, better opportunities for locals at a professional level and has improved the standard of living for Cape Verdean citizens.
10. What would you like to say people who are thinking of coming to Cape Verde?
For people who are thinking of coming to Cape Verde, we would say don’t doubt your excellent choice. Cape Verde is a very beautiful and welcoming destination with lovely people that will ensure the joy of anyone coming to visit this new emerging destination. There is room for everyone, with activities and entertainment for all ages.
For more information about The Resort Group PLC and its successful hospitality partnership with Meliá Hotels International, get in touch via our contact page today.