Dusit Thani Maldives appoints Olivier Portret as Executive Chef, Gayan Indika as Executive Pastry Chef

Dusit Thani Maldives has announced the appointments of two seasoned culinary professionals: Chef Olivier Portret as Executive Chef & Food and Beverage Manager, and Chef Gayan Indika as Executive Pastry Chef.

These strategic additions reflect the resort’s continued commitment to enhancing its culinary experiences through creativity, global expertise, and exceptional service.

Chef Olivier Portret – Executive Chef & Food & Beverage Manager

With a rich heritage rooted in the Loire Valley of France, Chef Olivier Portret brings over two decades of international culinary and F&B leadership to Dusit Thani Maldives. A graduate of the prestigious Blois Hospitality Management School, his passion for gastronomy was inspired early on by his grandmother, a hotelier, and has since taken him on a remarkable journey across the globe.

Chef Olivier began his career with classical French cuisine, working with renowned chefs before representing France at Walt Disney World in Orlando. His executive leadership began with the InterContinental group, managing high-performing kitchen and F&B teams in the Middle East and Africa.

Over the last 20 years, he has successfully led culinary operations across the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, including pre-opening and operational roles in Maldives, Mauritius, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. His portfolio includes iconic brands such as Constance Hotels, Beachcomber Hotels, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont, and bespoke private luxury properties.

Known for his refined culinary approach, strong leadership, and cultural sensitivity, Chef Olivier is set to lead Dusit Thani Maldives’ culinary and F&B operations with a renewed focus on innovation, guest satisfaction, and immersive dining experiences that honor both local and global flavors.

Chef Gayan Indika – Executive Pastry Chef

A master in the art of pastry, Chef Gayan Indika hails from Sri Lanka and brings over 15 years of five-star hospitality experience with a focus on luxury resorts and resort pre-openings. He began his pastry training at Swiss Lanka Hotel School and launched his professional journey at Galadari Hotel Colombo.

Since 2008, Chef Gayan has become a familiar name in the Maldives pastry scene, contributing his expertise to leading properties such as Cinnamon, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi (now Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort), One&Only Reethi Rah, Amilla Fushi, and Soneva Jani, where he introduced sustainability-led pastry programs.

His career also includes notable international roles with Accor Group’s Fairmont Maldives – Sirru Fen Fushi, Mövenpick Phu Quoc, and Legacy Yên Tử – MGallery in Vietnam. At Seaside Finolhu Maldives, he served as Executive Pastry Chef, setting up a full-fledged pastry academy and crafting seasonal signature menus.

Now leading the pastry team at Dusit Thani Maldives, Chef Gayan continues to infuse creativity and precision into every dessert experience. His artistry and dedication have earned him multiple gold medals at the Hotel Asia Culinary Awards, underscoring his reputation as one of the region’s finest pastry talents.

With the combined vision and talent of Chef Olivier and Chef Gayan, Dusit Thani Maldives is set to redefine luxury dining through thoughtful storytelling, sustainable practices, and exquisite flavors. Guests can look forward to a truly elevated culinary journey—where every dish is a celebration of passion and expertise.