Passion and leadership: Andrew Jansson’s vision for Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives and Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

Andrew Jansson, the Cluster General Manager of Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives and Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, has dedicated nearly 30 years to the hospitality industry. His journey, marked by a deep passion for travel and a commitment to leadership, has taken him across 14 different countries, each contributing to his unique approach to managing luxury properties. In an exclusive interview with Hotelier Maldives, Jansson shares his insights and vision for Centara’s new properties in the Maldives.

Jansson’s love for hospitality was sparked at a young age, influenced by his parents who worked in the airline industry. “From a very young age, I was fortunate to be able to travel and see the world,” he recalls. This early exposure to different cultures and destinations fuelled his desire to help others create their own lifelong memories. Studying in Switzerland, home to some of the world’s top hotel schools, further ignited his passion for the industry.

In the early stages of his career, Jansson was driven by a desire to explore new places and cultures. However, as his responsibilities grew, his focus shifted towards the people he worked with. “I became more focused on the people who worked for me, so I strived to become the best leader I could be,” he explains.

Working in 14 different countries has provided Jansson with a wealth of experiences and lessons. He emphasises the importance of adapting management styles to suit different cultural contexts. “There is not one approach to management, and every situation requires its own approach,” he notes. One of his most significant learning experiences occurred in Beijing, where he realised the importance of clear communication. “It is my responsibility as a leader to ensure that my team understands me, not the other way round,” he says.

Jansson’s first impressions of the Maldives were shaped by its natural beauty. “The clarity of the water, the colour of the marine life, and the hundreds of idyllic islands are still what makes this destination so popular,” he says. Over the years, he has witnessed significant development in the country, with improved infrastructure and a wider network of suppliers. Despite these changes, the Maldives’ allure remains undiminished.

Managing properties in the Maldives presents unique challenges and opportunities. Guests often view their visit as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, setting high expectations for operators. Jansson emphasises the importance of engaging with guests from the start and understanding their needs to make their dreams come true.

As the new Cluster General Manager, Jansson aims to establish clear positioning for Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives and Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives. “Understanding the needs of guests from different source markets and the demographics of visitors to the Maldives will enable us to stand out from the competition,” he explains. His goal is to make these properties flagship resorts, setting a blueprint for future developments across Centara’s destinations.

With this being his fourth resort management role in the Maldives, Jansson understands the importance of building a strong team. “You have to build a strong team that shares your vision and have everybody working towards a common goal,” he says. He believes that maintaining a positive energy and using it to motivate the team is crucial for overcoming challenges, especially in pre-opening projects.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, set to open on November 1, 2024, will be an underwater world-themed paradise featuring an outdoor water park, a kid-friendly Candy Spa, family-sized villas, and a range of restaurants and activities. This concept aims to reaffirm Centara’s position as a leading family-focused hotel group.

The neighbouring Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, opening in February 2025, will offer refined, Thai-inspired experiences focusing on wellness and gastronomy. With spacious accommodations, private beaches, and breathtaking ocean views, this resort will cater to guests seeking a more luxurious experience.

Jansson acknowledges the need for destinations to evolve and adapt to changing traveller trends. The Maldives, once synonymous with luxury, now caters to a diverse range of travellers. Centara’s varied portfolio, including the family-friendly Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa and the adults-only Centara Ras Fushi Resort, allows it to cater to different segments of the market.

Centara’s unique style of Thai-inspired, family-centric hospitality sets it apart in the Maldives’ hospitality sector. With four distinct resorts in the country, Centara is one of the leading hotel operators, allowing it to streamline operations and improve sustainability.

Jansson sees the Maldives evolving from a destination primarily for honeymoons and romantic vacations to one that offers options for a diverse range of travellers. With its four distinct resorts, Centara is playing a significant role in this transformation, providing greater choice to a wider range of customer segments. “We look forward to welcoming a new generation of families, friends, and couples who may never have experienced the Maldives before,” he says.

Reflecting on his extensive career, Jansson describes his journey in the hospitality industry as one of growth and maturation. “I am proud of my legacy and like to think that I have helped to inspire my staff, many of whom have gone on to achieve executive roles,” he shares. His dedication to creating lifelong memories for guests from around the world is a testament to his passion for hospitality.

With its unique blend of family-friendly activities, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives and is set to become a premier destination for families seeking an unforgettable tropical vacation. As Jansson aptly puts it, “This intuitive concept will reaffirm Centara’s position as a leading family-focused hotel group, while creating an exciting new option for parents seeking a tropical family vacation in the Maldives.”