OBLU NATURE Helengeli’s Hassan Ahmed: Managing hospitality finances

In hospitality, where guest experiences are meticulously crafted and curated, the role of finance often remains behind the scenes. Yet, it is the financial backbone that ensures smooth operations, the successful execution of projects, and the overall profitability of a resort. Hassan Ahmed, the Financial Controller at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by Sentido, is one of the key figures responsible for steering the resort’s financial course. With a career journey rooted in a passion for numbers and a drive to excel in the dynamic environment of resort management, Hassan’s story is a testament to the significant impact that finance professionals can have in the hospitality industry.

Hassan Ahmed’s journey into the world of hospitality finance began with a foundation in accounting, a field that had intrigued him since his school days. “I’ve always had an interest in accounting. Even during school, I pursued studies in the commerce stream,” Hassan recalls. His career started at an audit firm in Malé, where he gained valuable experience in the fundamentals of finance. However, it wasn’t long before Hassan felt the pull of the resort environment, a setting he found both challenging and rewarding. “I always had a desire to work in a resort environment. The idea of interacting with people from diverse cultures in a challenging yet rewarding setting really appealed to me.”

This desire led him to Makunudhoo Island Resort, where he took on a junior role in the accounting department. His time at Makunudhoo marked the beginning of a journey that would see him rise through the ranks in the finance departments of some of the Maldives’ most prestigious resorts.

Following his initial experience at Makunudhoo, Hassan transitioned to Jumeirah Dhevanafushi (now Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort), where he worked as a Finance Assistant for a year and a half. This role provided him with deeper insights into the financial workings of a luxury resort. In 2015, an opportunity came his way when he joined the pre-opening team at Helengeli, run by Atmosphere Core, as an Accountant. It was here that Hassan’s career truly began to take off. “During my time here, I was promoted to Chief Accountant,” he shares. His promotion was a testament to his hard work and dedication, qualities that would continue to define his career.

In 2019, Hassan took on another exciting challenge by joining the pre-opening team at VARU by Atmosphere as an Assistant Financial Controller. His experience in pre-opening operations, which he had honed at Helengeli, proved invaluable. “Following Atmosphere’s take-over of Bolifushi, I brought my pre-opening experience from two resorts to this new and exciting challenge as reopening it as THE OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI,” he explains.

Working in pre-opening operations is no small feat. It requires meticulous planning, the ability to work under tight deadlines, and a great deal of multitasking. “Pre-opening is an intense and fast-paced experience. We work under tight deadlines to ensure the resort opens on time,” Hassan says. He describes the experience as one that requires a forward-thinking approach, particularly in the finance department. “In finance, our focus begins with securing daily capital and planning for operational needs. It’s an engaging process where we have to think ahead about everything—from guest supplies and branding elements to ensuring we have enough stock.”

Hassan’s role in pre-opening operations has given him a unique perspective on the complexities involved in launching a new resort. From securing capital to managing procurement, he has been at the forefront of ensuring that everything is in place for a successful opening.

In addition to his pre-opening experience, Hassan was also deeply involved in the recent relaunch project at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by Sentido. This project presented a different set of challenges, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The relaunch was the first major project I undertook, and it was a tremendous learning experience,” Hassan reflects. He gained valuable insights into project planning and financial management, learning to navigate the intricacies of managing project finances and handling vendor payments during a period of global uncertainty.

The refurbishment not only enhanced the resort’s offerings but also provided Hassan with an opportunity to grow professionally. “Managing procurement, bringing in goods, and coordinating their arrival and unloading were very key tasks,” he says, adding that the experience taught him how to balance the immediate needs of a project with long-term financial planning.

A year after the refurbishment, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by Sentido has undergone significant changes that have elevated the guest experience. The addition of water villas, new dining venues, and refurbished rooms are just a few of the enhancements that have set the resort apart from others. “These improvements have significantly enhanced the guest experience and differentiated our resort from others,” Hassan notes with pride.

For Hassan, the most rewarding aspect of his role is seeing the tangible results of the financial strategies he helps to implement. “Managing cash flow is one of the most key aspects of finance in hospitality, but achieving our goals with the collaboration of all department heads, General Managers, and team members is exhilarating.”

Reflecting on his career, Hassan offers valuable advice to young people interested in joining the finance and hospitality industry. “Many people assume that finance roles are confined to the back office, but working in a resort offers a much broader experience,” he says. He emphasises the importance of choosing a reputable company, highlighting Atmosphere Core’s strong support system as a key factor in his own career development. “The systems and processes at Atmosphere Core allow finance professionals to be more involved in daily activities and guest interactions. Plus, the industry now offers competitive pay, making it even more attractive.”

Hassan’s role is dynamic, requiring constant communication and collaboration. His typical day involves management briefings, meetings with department heads, and even interactions with guests. It’s a role that keeps him engaged and allows him to make a meaningful impact on the resort’s operations.

As he looks back on his career, Hassan is quick to express his gratitude to those who have supported him along the way, especially his family and colleagues. “I want to express my gratitude to my family and the senior management at Atmosphere Core. Their support over the past nine years has been instrumental in my career growth. I want to specifically thank Srikanth, Salil, Dhilip, and Sasika for their contributions and support.”

Hassan Ahmed’s journey from a junior accountant in Male to the Financial Controller at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by Sentido is a story of dedication, hard work, and the willingness to embrace new challenges. His experiences highlight the critical role that finance professionals play in the hospitality industry, ensuring that resorts not only operate smoothly but also continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. For Hassan, the journey is far from over, and with his passion for finance and hospitality, the future looks bright.