Meet judges honouring winners of Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024

In the process of shortlisting candidates for the Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024, presented by Bestbuy Maldives (BBM), a panel of six judges has been convened. These judges play a pivotal role in evaluating and selecting nominees across various categories. Their collective expertise and discernment contribute to the impartiality and thoroughness of the shortlisting process. Through careful consideration of each nominee’s merits, the panel aims to identify exceptional contributions and achievements within the Maldivian hospitality industry.

Julia Baur, Managing Director of IREKS Asia-Pacific: Julia rounds out the panel with her expertise in providing premium bakery flour and ingredients. Her leadership at IREKS Asia-Pacific shapes the culinary landscape with innovative solutions.

Ibrahim Asim, Chief of Corporate Affairs at Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC): Affectionately known as IB, he brings over two decades of experience in destination marketing at Visit Maldives. His dedication to promoting the Maldives as a premier travel destination has been instrumental in shaping the nation’s image on the global stage.

Mohamed Shinaz, a culinary professional: With a wealth of experience from establishments like Hilton Maldives and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, he offers his expertise in evaluating culinary excellence. His insights as a Culinary Consultant enrich the judging process.

Manish Jha, General Manager at NH Dubai: A seasoned hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience, Manish Jha brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Hotelier Maldives Awards judging panel. Currently the General Manager of the award-winning NH Collection Dubai The Palm, Manish has a proven track record of success, having steered the property to impressive achievements during its inaugural year. But Manish’s journey extends far beyond Dubai. He spent a significant 8 years working in the Maldives, along with stints in Thailand and Seychelles. This diverse experience across the Indian Ocean region equips him with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by hoteliers in these idyllic destinations.

Simmi Pai, Founder of Tawi Lush: A distinguished figure in Maldives’ hospitality sector, she boasts over 18 years of experience in luxury resorts like Taj Hotels, Jumeirah, Fairmont, and The Ozen Collection. As a co-founder of Tawi Facilities, she’s reshaped luxury resort services for both B2B and B2C clients. Recently serving as VP of Sales & Marketing, her expertise is now honored as a judge at the Hotelier Maldives Awards. Simmi’s influence continues to redefine luxury experiences in the Maldives and beyond.

Ibrahim Mahudhee, the Managing Editor of Hotelier Maldives: He adds a unique perspective with his multifaceted expertise in law, business, marketing, and media. Having previously served as a judge at the Maldives Travel Awards, Mahudhee brings valuable insight to the table.

The Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024, presented by BBM, were open to all hotel employees who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields. The awards for this year cover 21 general categories, ranging from housekeeping, engineering, food and beverage, spa and wellness, sales and marketing, and more. The winners are being selected by a combination of public vote and marks given by a panel of judges comprising of industry experts, based on the criteria of performance, achievements, customer feedback, and social responsibility.

Voting for the nominees shortlisted by the six-member judges bench are now open by April 16 via this website.

The entries for the Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024 were open from January 2, 2024 to January 31, 2024. Winners from the over 350 nominees will be announced at a gala ceremony to be held at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi resort on April 25, 2024.