CCR

Zakariyya “Zaki” Easa, Training & Development Manager for award-winning Crown & Champa Resorts has been with the company for over 19 years and offers insightful secrets to success in Training & Development in the Maldives.

 

Training & Development is an essential department in any organization, where employees are further equipped with a range of skills designed to enhance their job performance and shape their overall career goals. In the Hospitality Industry, resorts and hotels further invest their resources on training employees, and most importantly, developing the necessary skills within the company.

 

Born and raised in the Maldives, Zaki holds a Masters in Business Administration from the Open University of Malaysia; a Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management Honours from the University of Toulouse in France (via Taylor’s University of Malaysia); and has maintained a successful track record working in various departments of the hospitality industry.

 

He has grown in his career with Crown & Champa Resorts during the past 19 years, focusing on all the operational departments from junior levels to executive levels. His multifaceted management skills include the highest level of compliance-based activities, such as Implementation and HACCP/Food Safety Training, and currently leading the Training and Development team representing the entire award-winning group.

 

Zaki’s acute knowledge and experience allows him to observe the various changes in the training processes employed by various companies in the Maldives, ‘the perspective of Employee Training and Development has drastically changed over the years in Maldives, from least valued sector to the most vital strategic business tool towards a necessary competitive edge’, he mentions. He further emphasises the need to have skilled trainers at the various Crown & Champa Resorts properties.

 

“To sustain business success, quality standards and continuity of service improvements at a competitive edge, multi-skilled and experienced trainers are vital. Their partnership is inseparable from a company’s business strategies and the business plans.”

 

Open communication and genuine partnership are some of the reasons why the Training & Development Department at Crown & Champa Resorts is so successful and essentially, one of the leading teams in the Maldives. Zaki finds that although each company is unique, very few keep the global workforce in mind when creating training portfolios. Key factors such as cultural and generational differences in the workforce affect how receptive an employee is to any training activity.

 

There are many facets to understanding the factors that affect an employee’s development within a company. Zaki mentions, ‘not having clear expectations at an operational level, as well as a career and succession plan.’ He further states that career goals serve as a fundamental motivational tool for any employee who wants to work in this industry. ‘A development plan with a realistic time frame builds trusted social contract between employees and employers’, he adds. This plan eventually helps to sustain continuous service improvements by retaining qualified and experience employees.

 

Crown & Champa Resorts offer a variety of development programmes for the benefit of the employee, the company and our guests. These include a Sponsorship Programme for in-house staff, Graduate Management Training Programme, as well as Departmental and Inter-Resort Cross Exposure Programme.

 

“Apart from basic education qualification, good behaviour, a positive attitude, flexibility and a passionate for your work. The ideal scholarship programme candidate is a person who loves to learn and improve knowledge/skills, is results oriented and a people’s person.”

 

Find out more about one of the successful recipients of a Crown & Champa Resorts scholarship here.

 

Download our 5 ways to improve your Training & Development Methods and enhance your own teams… the Crown & Champa Resorts way.

The Maldives has been awarded several international accolades over the years attesting to the sheer beauty of the Islands, as well as a hint at what makes the country one of the TOP travel destinations in the world. The awards include: Best Honeymoon Destination, Best Sea Destination, Best Travel Destination, World’s Leading Beach Destination, World’s Leading Dive Destination and Indian Ocean’s Best Spa Destination.

 

In the archipelago of coral islands, grouped into 26 atolls, the Maldives is purely surrounded by the pristine Indian Ocean. Each Island boasts its own charm and beauty, which saw the first tourist arrivals in 1972 completely engulfed with the idyllic paradise. The Tourism Industry of Maldives continued to grow at an exceptional rate with almost 800 establishments to date across all atolls catering to the increasing number of tourist arrivals each year.

 

 

The Islands

With sand as soft as powder, spanning around the Island, The Maldives calls for a “no shoes, no news” lifestyle. Travelers enjoy the barefoot luxuries afforded by Resorts that make up the entirety of each Island. Days are spent under swaying palm trees along the beach and the sound of the shore inviting you for a swim.

 

Another captivating reason why the Maldives is the perfect holiday destination is the crystal clear lagoon that surrounds each Island. The pristine shades of blue ranging from sparkling turquoise to royal blue are inviting enough for a swim and often times, to explore the colorful marine life that lies beneath.

 

 

The Marine Life

The shallow lagoons are perfect for snorkeling, while the reef walls offer a variety of sea life for more experienced divers to explore. The fantastic underwater diversity includes lively corals and over 2000 species of fish, ranging from Sea Turtles, Reef Fish and Reef Sharks to Moray Eels, Rays and Whale Sharks.

 

 

The People

Hospitality and Service are some of the subtlest yet important reasons why travelers return to the Islands, year after year; the warmth and friendliness of staff, the personalized service and authentic culture, as well as the artful touches that make each stay unforgettable.

 

 

Leading Hotel & Resorts Group in the Maldives, Crown & Champa Resorts combines the natural and authentic charm of an untouched tropical Island, with specially designed accommodation and experiences to suit each traveler’s needs. The properties place emphasis on the Maldivian hospitality that makes the Islands more than just a popular holiday destination, for many, the Maldives become a second home.

 

 

Crown & Champa Resorts properties are located in the North Male’ Atoll, Meeru Island Resort & Spa; the Ari Atoll, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa in the North,  Vilamendhoo island Resort & Spa in the South; the capital city of Male’, Champa Central Hotel; and the Lhaviyani Atoll, Hurawalhi Island Resort, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa and Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, as well as Kudadoo Private Island by Hurawalhi Island Resort and Innahura Island Resort .

Crown & Champa Resorts, the leading Hotel & Resort Management group in the Maldives, currently manages 8 properties across the Atolls that feature ‘optional’ Fine Dining and each with unique offerings. Read the 8 reasons to enhance your evenings in paradise with an a la carte dinner:

 

#1: Vilamendhoo’s Asian Wok Restaurant

Another Fine Dining experience to enjoy in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives, is over-the-water Asian Wok Restaurant at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa. The a la carte Restaurant is a sight to behold and offers a range of Asian specialties, including Teppanyaki. At Asian Wok, guests can learn interesting recipes from the skilled chefs and make their own lunch.

 

#2: Meeru’s Hot Rock Restaurant

Hot Rock Restaurant & Bar is on the eastern side of Meeru Island Resort & Spa, located in the North Male’ Atoll of the Maldives. The Restaurant offering idyllic views of the lagoon and a vast selection of delectable meats to choose from, served on a ceramic hot rock to cook at your table, to your perfection. Enjoy a range of meat and game including such exotics as Kangaroo Tenderloin and Ostrich Filet.

 

#3: Veligandu’s Madivaru Restaurant

In traditional Maldivian style architecture, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa’s Madivaru Restaurant offers an authentic Fine Dining experience in the North Ari Atoll. The a la carte dining venue offers fresh, grilled seafood and prime beef along with tranquil views of the shore. Guests can choose to dine indoors and feel the soft sand beneath their feet or on the outdoor deck with the soft tropical breeze.

 

#4: Hurawalhi’s Aquarium Restaurant

The Aquarium Restaurant at Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Lhaviyani Atoll is a contemporary venue, located over-the-water for scenic views of the Indian Ocean. The Restaurant offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, offering the finest quality of prime beef and a contemporary a la carte menu that is thoughtfully sourced, organic and artisanal, with an emphasis on the freshest of local seafood.

 

#5: Komandoo’s Aqua Fine Dining

Also in the Lhaviyanhi Atoll, Komandoo Island Resort & Spa’s a la carte Restaurant, Aqua is… Simply Spectacular. Resting on stilts over the lagoon with glass floors, Aqua reveals the ocean life beneath your feet while you enjoy tantalizing cuisine to satisfy all palates. Every meal is prepared with passion and flair by our culinary team of chefs using fresh local ingredients such as s yellow fin tuna, lobster and many more delicacies from the Indian Ocean.

 

#6: Franco’s at Kuredu

If you are looking to explore a wide selection of Mediterranean food delights in a cozy setting, then Franco’s at Kuredu Island Resort & Spa in the Lhaviyani Atoll is the Ideal venue for you. The menu includes quality Spanish, Greek and Italian food highlights with spices, herbs and other fresh ingredients from Resort’s own greenhouse. Guest can also enjoy pizza and burger options as afternoon snacks.

 

#7: Champa Central Hotel’s Roof Top Restaurant

In the heart of Male’ City, Champa Central Hotel is known as the most convenient Hotel for business and transit travelers, as well as for events and special weddings. The Roof Top Restaurant is located on the 10^th floor of the Hotel and offers an a la carte menu with a variety of international selections, specializing in Indian cuisine along with spectacular views of the city.

 

Choose Crown & Champa Resorts for your next holiday destination and experience the heights of Fine Dining in the Maldives. To explore each Resort, simply click on name.

Nothing spells romance quite like a romantic escape to a tropical Island, in the ‘middle of nowhere’, surrounded by swaying coconut palm trees, sand as soft as powder and warm turquoise water. For you and your loved one, Crown & Champa Resorts offers the opportunity to make your dreams a reality and indulge in the getaway of a lifetime.

 

If the Maldives, named one of the TOP destinations for couples is not enough motivation, choose from a range of charming Villas, romantic amenities, couples activities and dining experiences to add to your honeymoon escape and live the dream.

 

 

The Romantic Ocean Villa at 5-Star Hurawalhi Island Resort takes the celebration of love to the next level. Watch the golden rays paint the sky from the spacious deck leading to the crystal clear lagoon, complete with an indulgent bathtub to inspire the start of forever together. Visit Hurawalhi’s very own Dream Island to enjoy a scenic half-day picnic on your own patch of paradise.

 

Adults-only Komandoo Island Resort & Spa is the ideal Island for honeymooners to enjoy the peace, tranquility and relaxation of paradise. In a Jacuzzi Beach Villa, newly weds are afforded spacious luxury with access to the beautiful powdery white beach that encircles the tropical island. Surprise your partner with a decorated Jacuzzi and patio area, including some fine sparkling wine and a selection of tropical fruits.

 

 

Situated above Kuredu Island Resort & Spa’s turquoise water, Sangu’s Honeymoon Suite is the perfect choice for your special getaway. Built on wooden stilts and connected by a walkway, the Honeymoon Suite features a secluded veranda with a private Jacuzzi, perfect for breezy sunbathing, sharing romantic moments and admiring crimson sunsets.

 

Wake up to magnificent views of the sunrise from your Water Front Villa at Meeru Island Resort & Spa, located on the beach at the water’s edge for you to enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm, turquoise waters or simply relax on the sundeck loungers. Arrive to a beautifully decorated bed to honor your celebration, as well as a tropical fruit plate for two and add a delicious Champagne Breakfast to enjoy in the privacy of your own room.

 

 

Veligandu Island Resorts & Spa’s spacious Jacuzzi Water Villas are located over-the-water, in the lagoon and a short walk along your private jetty. You and your beau enjoy the luxuries of this secluded hideaway with a private walled-in outdoor area featuring a Jacuzzi for two “under the stars”. Amplify your special occasion with a romantic Star Gazing Cruise across the Indian Ocean, including a glass of non-alcoholic sparkling wine and canapés.

 

 

The tropical Jacuzzi Water Villas, located in the adults-only area of Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is the perfect choice for a unique and adventurous spark to your honeymoon escape. Step right into the lagoon from your deck and swim together towards the magnificent House Reef for a truly memorable love story. Later, indulge in a His & Hers Balinese massage from award-winning Duniye Spa, complete with champagne, candles and the aroma of pure essential oils.

 

That’s not all…

 

Recreate the destination wedding of your dreams on the beach, aboard a luxury yacht and even 5.8 meters undersea. Capture each and every memory to take home with you from the Photography Studios available at each Resort.

 

For more information, or to book your romantic honeymoon escape, simply click on your preferred Resort name.

 

The ideal way to start forever together is with a Crown & Champa Resorts holiday.

Ahmed Shaheen, Director of Sales & Marketing for award-winning Crown & Champa Resorts (‘CCR’) has been with the company for over 23 years and offers insightful secrets to success in the Sales & Marketing arena of the Maldives.

 

From Market Trends, Sales Strategies and Marketing Plans to Sales Calls, International Trade Shows and Lead Generation, Sales & Marketing is an essential department in the Hospitality Industry, which is visible in multiple stages of the Guests’ Journey between initial knowledge of a destination, to the checkout and aftersales experience.

 

Year after year, CCR continues to grow as leading Resort & Hotel brand in the Maldives, which currently manages a total of 8 properties with several new developments underway. The Sales & Marketing Department ensures that each Resort and Hotel individually, as well as a part of the renowned group, is well represented across all Markets and platforms among our partners, Travel Agents and Tour Operators.

 

Born and raised in Maldives, Shaheen holds a Higher Diploma in Hospitality Management from Taylor’s College in Malaysia and has climbed the ladder from a young age with experience in various departments of the hospitality industry. He has grown in his career with CCR during the past 23 years focusing on Accounts, Operations, Sales & Marketing and currently now taking lead of the Sales & Marketing team representing the entire award-winning Group.

 

Travel and Hospitality in the Maldives is a rapidly changing environment and an industry where one has to focus to stay ahead of the market. CCR’s diverse and experienced Sales & Marketing team sets the Group apart. Shaheen adds that, ‘each member in the team contributes valuable experience and knowledge to our sales strategies in order to keep up with the new trends of each market in the world and the destination itself.”

 

In his advise to Sales & Marketing professionals on setting a successful sales strategy, Shaheen lists the follow key points:

 

1. Listen to your sources and evaluate their statements, concerns, suggestions and opinions.
2. Discuss with your team of experts and evaluate the same.
3. Use the contributions to implement a customized strategy.

 

“By listening to our valued partners all around the world, we focus on evolving our brand and creating new trends for our partners to join us on our journey of new and fresh offerings.”

 

International Trade Fairs are a great way for Sales & Marketing professionals to foster Business-to-Business (B2B) partnerships, including some of the World’s leading travel events like ITB Berlin and the World Travel Market. At such events, Shaheen estimates that the team manages an average of 70 meetings including Tour Operator functions and networking events.

 

“A typical day at a trade show for our team includes a combination of meetings to acquire, developing and retain partners. With each partner, we actively solicit discussions on how we can improve, as well as plan and strategize how to keep up with the market trends and empower these relationships.”

 

The goal, to ensure that Crown & Champa Resorts remains the best partner in the Maldives, is intrinsically linked to the Group’s vision, as well as the mission to exceed all expectations, whether from behind-the-scenes, as with Sales & Marketing efforts, harnessing valuable feedback from partnerships or improving the overall guest experience.

 

Learn more about Sales & Marketing efforts in the Travel and Hospitality Industry. Read the 5 little known facts and the link between these efforts and the guest experience.