JW MARRIOTT Gold Coast general manager and Fijian national Ravinder Dhesi, who was in Fiji last week celebrates 25 years of service with Marriott International this month. He began his career in the hospitality industry with the finance department at the ITT Sheraton Resort Denarau Fiji in 1999, and has worked at Marriott properties in Noosa, Gold Coast, Denarau, Fiji and now back at Gold Coast. As he reflects on his career journey, his most notable achievements include the full renovation, rebranding and launch of the first JW Marriott brand in Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, numerous accolades received by the resort and his own award of Global JW Marriott brand General Manager of the Year and Marriott International APEC Luxury General Manager of the Year in 2022.
He credits his success to strong work ethic, having mentors, support of family and friends and drawing inspiration from pioneers and stalwarts of the Fijian Tourism industry. “I think it’s important to have mentors and industry stalwarts to look up to. Sometimes globally successful leaders such as Sir Branson, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos may seem too far-fetched,” said Mr Dhesi.
“As career growth opportunities presented itself, I looked up to Fijian tourism industry leaders such as Mr Radike Qereqeretabua, a Fijian general manager, and Mr Tony Whitton who has achieved phenomenal success as a local leader in the tourism industry.” “I have also closely followed Mr Andre Viljoen and his team at Fiji Airways.