Fabio Marigliano, currently serving as the General Manager at General Hotel Management Ltd, brings over two decades of valuable experience in the hospitality industry. He has developed a strong skill set in various aspects of the industry, including F&B (Food and Beverage) Department management, service excellence, yield management, and training.
Fabio is known for his personable and communicative nature, allowing him to effortlessly connect with individuals across all organizational levels. His extensive background in the field spans from managing small-scale operations to overseeing larger, more complex establishments. This diverse experience has provided him with a deep understanding of and proficiency in different service styles and concepts within the hospitality sector.
Belowa re highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Fabio Marigliano:
Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace.
I am a sincere and compassionate person, both in and out of the professional realm. My primary objective is to deliver the utmost level of personal service and amenities to all individuals under my care. This is achieved by meticulously choosing, guiding, nurturing, coaching, and fostering the professional growth of every team member under my supervision.
Describe your background and what did you do before you started/joined the company?
I embarked on my professional journey as a native of Naples, Italy, where I pursued my education in the field of hospitality. Subsequently, I set out on an international adventure, commencing in the United Kingdom and traversing various destinations across Asia and the Middle East. With my Italian heritage, the significance of culinary excellence has always been a central theme in my career. My extensive industry experience has been heavily influenced by Italy’s rich culinary tradition and its dedication to exceptional dining establishments.
Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start?
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, is rooted in its name, which translates to ‘The Home.’ This extraordinary establishment comprises seven heritage houses, once owned by local families, and it presents guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Emirati hospitality while experiencing world-class luxury in the heart of Sharjah. Under the expert stewardship of GHM, these meticulously preserved historic edifices, in conjunction with modern additions, have been harmoniously integrated to create 65 refined guestrooms and suites. Here, the timeless allure of Arabic culture converges with the iconic Asian design elements for which our brand is renowned.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
The key factors behind my success in my role as General Manager at The Chedi Al Bait are rooted in my unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, a deep passion for the hospitality industry, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. I hold in high regard a well-trained and inspired team, a culture of innovation, fiscal responsibility, active community involvement, meticulous attention to detail, adaptability to changing circumstances, ethical behaviour, and a lifelong commitment to learning and growth. These core principles have not only defined my career but also play a pivotal role in sustaining the ongoing success of the hotel.
Which are the major services of the company and how do they the company to get ahead in the competition? What value-added services does the company provide?
Our company offers a range of major services that set us apart in the competitive landscape and provide added value to our guests. These distinctive features include:
- Unique Culinary Experience: We provide a unique a la carte dining experience, unlike traditional buffets, where every meal is freshly prepared upon request, and some dishes even feature gold coating.
- True Heritage Experience: As the only authentic heritage hotel in Sharjah, we offer guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of the region.
- Exclusive Transportation Fleet: Our company boasts its own fleet of Mercedes vehicles, ensuring the convenience and comfort of our guests during transportation.
- Signature Welcome: Upon arrival, guests are greeted with our signature silver lavender welcome drink, setting the tone for their exceptional stay.
- Personalized Service: We go the extra mile by getting to know our guests before their arrival, enabling us to provide personalized services such as having their luggage delivered to their rooms before check-in.
- Exclusive Check-In Experience: Our exclusive check-in process involves personally escorting guests to their rooms, making them feel truly valued and cared for from the moment they arrive.
- Guest Comfort: We prioritize guest comfort with thoughtful amenities, including complimentary handcrafted popsicles, fresh fruit cuts, detox water, and scented cold towels, ensuring a delightful and refreshing stay.
These services not only distinguish us from other hotels in Sharjah but also contribute to creating a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience for our guests.
What are the most important aspects of a company’s culture? What principles do you believe in and how do you build this culture?
The fundamental pillars of a company’s culture encompass several key aspects, such as values, teamwork, leadership, employee well-being, diversity, continuous learning, customer orientation, innovation, accountability, and adaptability.
To cultivate and foster such a culture, I firmly adhere to the following principles and strategies:
- Lead by Example
- Effective Communication
- Empowerment
- Recognition and Rewards
- Feedback Mechanisms
- Investment in Training
- Inclusivity
- Adaptability and Innovation
- Alignment with Company Values
By adhering to these principles and weaving them into the fabric of the organization, a positive and thriving workplace culture can be cultivated and sustained over time.
What is the significance of innovative ideas in the company?
Innovative ideas hold immense significance within a company as they play pivotal roles in:
- Gaining a Competitive Edge
- Driving Business Growth and Efficiency
- Adapting to Change
- Enhancing Customer Satisfaction
- Attracting and Retaining Talent
- Solving Complex Problems
- Boosting Reputation and Sustainability
In summary, innovative ideas are not merely beneficial but essential for a company’s growth, adaptability, and overall success in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes?
Both aspects are crucial, and a balanced approach promotes resilience and success.
- Individual Heroics: Valuable for innovation, leadership, and specialized skills.
- Team Processes: Vital for collaboration, risk mitigation, knowledge sharing,
and consistency.
What are your responsibilities as the General Manager of the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine?
In my role as the General Manager of the hotel, I have a range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring the hotel’s overall success. Our primary focus, given our boutique size, centers around delivering exceptional team service, enhancing the guest experience, and immersing our guests in the rich culture and heritage of Sharjah throughout their stay.
The most rewarding part of my daily routine is witnessing the transformation of our guests’ experiences as they engage with our team and immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Sharjah.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
For someone stepping into a leadership role for the first time, I would offer the following advice:
- Patience is Key
- Continual Growth
- Empathy and Self-Reflection
These principles can serve as a solid foundation for someone entering a leadership role, fostering personal growth and contributing to successful leadership within the industry.
