Purchasing Power: Chorinchath Sasikumar, Director of Purchasing, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Hotelier Maldives speaks with Four Seasons Resorts Maldives’ Director of Purchasing Chorinchath Sasikumar to get his take on the industry.

Hotelier Maldives: How long have you been in purchasing?

Chorinchath Sasikumar: I’ve been in purchasing for 20 years

HM: What do you look for in a product?

CS: I look for a combination of all. When we can source a product that proves to be our desired quality and brand, in line with the design requirements of our operations, at the right time and at the right price, then we have a ‘perfect match’.

HM: What area of the hotel are you most proud of?

CS: I love that the whole team is so guest-oriented and passionate about making each guest’s stay memorable – we manage to do that consistently every single day.

HM: Tell us about one of your most successful deals (recent)?

CS: The nature of the job is such that on a daily basis the Purchasing Department gets challenged to bring in products from all over the world in the shortest time possible.  Delivering unique, unusual products on a regular basis is highly satisfying.

One of the projects I’m most proud of is the partnership with Parley. Four Seasons Resorts Maldives actively participates in the Parley plastic recycling programme and has tied up with the new regional garbage disposal facility in Vandhoo Island of Raa Atoll.

Secondly, the opening of Four Seasons Private Island at Voavah in 2016 was one of our team’s biggest successes.  We had to coordinate the arrival of furniture, fittings – and anything that a luxury private island requires! – from three continents to ensure a smooth opening. It was also really inspiring to work closely with the architects responsible for the project and see the private island come to completion in all its beauty.

HM: What does a supplier have to do to impress you?

CS: They must offer a world-class product range at an attractive price. In addition, they have to be able to provide timely delivery but, most importantly, be passionate and proud of the work they do.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]