Ahmed Naushad: Rising through ranks at Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives

Ahmed Naushad serves as a Front Office Supervisor at Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives. His career trajectory has been marked by dedication, adaptability, and a passion for service that inspires both his colleagues and aspiring professionals in the industry.

Naushad’s career began in 2017, shortly after he finished school. Intrigued by stories shared by friends who had joined the resort sector, he was captivated by the idea of working in a place where enjoyment and career growth could coexist. His first role was as a Guest Service Assistant at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort, which set the foundation for his career. “After seeing the opportunities in the industry, I decided to enter as a Room Boy at Raffles,” he recalls. This initial position led him to Fihalhohi and then to Amilla Maldives, where he honed his skills as an Assistant Katheeb (butler). In October 2019, he joined Grand Park Kodhipparu, initially as a Guest Service Operator, and has steadily progressed through the ranks.

Every career path has its challenges, and for Naushad, one of the most significant came last year when he was tasked with managing airport operations for a month. “There were some difficulties in operations, and since there was no one available for the task, I was asked to take it on,” he explains. Rather than viewing this as an overwhelming burden, Naushad embraced it as a chance to learn and grow. “The more I learned, the more I progressed,” he states, highlighting how this experience equipped him with insights into operations management, which are invaluable in his current role.

His responsibilities as Front Office Supervisor include overseeing the daily flow of operations, managing arrivals and departures, and coordinating transport logistics, such as speedboats and buggies. The knowledge he gained from handling airport operations has significantly contributed to his confidence and competence in these areas.

As Naushad reflects on his time in the hospitality industry, he emphasises the importance of viewing this work as a career rather than just a job. “My advice is to enter the industry with a mindset to build a career and learn from the opportunities it offers,” he advises young people considering this path. He believes that effective task management and a genuine passion for the work are crucial for success and growth in the field.

Naushad’s ambitions don’t stop at his current role; he aims to become a Duty Manager and eventually a Front Office Manager. He actively seeks to learn managerial tasks and take on more responsibilities, viewing each new challenge as an opportunity to gain valuable experience.

At Grand Park Kodhipparu, Naushad finds himself surrounded by a supportive team, especially praising his manager, Junaid, as a mentor and source of inspiration. “The front office team is excellent,” he says, emphasising the collaborative spirit that pervades their work environment. Naushad’s approach to teamwork is evident in his interactions with colleagues; he is known for his supportive nature and willingness to assist his seniors whenever possible.

Outside of his professional commitments, Ibrahim is also a passionate performer of Bodu Beru, a traditional Maldivian dance, and a football enthusiast. In his spare time, he enjoys game fishing, which allows him to connect with nature and unwind from his busy schedule.

Naushad’s journey from a Room Boy to Front Office Supervisor at Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives is a story of ambition, resilience, and a deep-seated passion for hospitality. His experiences and insights serve as a beacon for young professionals entering the resort industry, encouraging them to view their roles as lifelong careers filled with growth and opportunity. With a bright future ahead, Ibrahim is not just building his own career; he is also paving the way for others to follow in his footsteps.