Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa promotes Rajeshwar Rao K to General Manager
Aldo Scarapicchia, Partner & Managing Director of The Emerald Collection, has announced the appointment of Rajeshwar Rao K as General Manager of Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa, its distinguished Deluxe All-Inclusive resort in the Maldives and a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
With over 20 years of international hospitality experience, Rao brings a wealth of expertise in luxury resort operations, guest relations, and team development. Having served as Resort Manager at Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa since January 2024, his appointment represents a natural progression in his career and reflects The Emerald Collection’s commitment to recognising and nurturing talent from within.
Rao’s distinguished hospitality career spans over two decades across India, Seychelles, and the Maldives, with experience at renowned hospitality brands, including Fortune Hotels (ITC’s Welcomgroup), Constance Hotels & Resorts, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, Lily Beach Resort & Spa, and The Emerald Collection.
Throughout his career, he has played a key role in five resort pre-openings in the Maldives, including two properties affiliated with The Leading Hotels of the World. His extensive experience in establishing successful resort operations, building high-performing teams, and maintaining exceptional service standards has shaped his hands-on, people-focused approach to leadership.
His journey with The Emerald Collection began in May 2019 at Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, where he contributed to the property’s pre-opening and operational development. In August 2022, he joined Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa as Rooms Division Manager, supporting the resort’s successful opening and laying the foundations for its guest service standards. He was subsequently promoted to Resort Manager in January 2024, assuming broader operational responsibilities and contributing significantly to the resort’s service culture and overall performance.
Commenting on the appointment, Aldo Scarapicchia, Partner & Managing Director of The Emerald Collection, said: “Rao has been an integral part of The Emerald Collection’s journey, consistently demonstrating exceptional dedication, strong leadership, and a genuine passion for hospitality. His extensive international experience, involvement in multiple successful resort openings, and deep understanding of our brand philosophy make him ideally positioned to lead Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa. We are confident that his leadership will further strengthen the resort’s reputation for excellence and personalised luxury.”
Reflecting on his appointment and the journey that has led him to this milestone, Rao shared: “It is a great honour and privilege to take on the role of General Manager at Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa. Having been part of The Emerald Collection for more than seven years and closely involved in the journey of Emerald Faarufushi since its pre-opening, this appointment holds special meaning for me. I am grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the ownership and leadership of The Emerald Collection. My focus will remain on empowering our talented team, creating memorable guest experiences, and continuously enhancing the standards of service and hospitality that define our resort.”
In his new role, Rao will oversee the resort’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations, with a continued focus on guest satisfaction, team development, operational excellence, sustainability, and long-term business performance.
For more information, please visit www.emerald-faarufushi.com and for bookings and inquiries, please contact reservations@emerald-faarufushi.com.
