In Qatar’s hospitality realm, where luxury meets innovation and service reigns supreme, there exists an inspiration that captivates both travelers and connoisseurs alike. Nestled in the heart of Qatar’s vibrant landscape, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa emerges as a quintessential destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of opulence and well-being.
It’s with great pleasure that I delve into an exclusive conversation with the esteemed General Manager, Ilkin Imanov. As the Editor of LLQ Lifestyle magazine, I crafted my questions around 10 essentials for hospitality leadership and success –and Mr. Ilkin Imanov appreciatively answered all the questions bringing the insights and his success recipe for our readers.
Join me on a journey as we uncover the secrets behind The Westin Doha’s unparalleled hospitality, its dedication to sustainability, and its unwavering commitment to curating unforgettable experiences for every guest.
Celebrating Leadership: GM Westin Doha Hotel, Ilkin Imanov’s Guide to Hospitality Success
Reflecting on Milestones
Elias Haddad: Looking back on your career, can you share any moments or achievements that really stand out to you as particularly rewarding or unforgettable?
Ilkin Imanov: “In 2023, I was honored to receive the International General Manager Award for my work as a General Manager in Qatar. This recognition was not only personally rewarding but also a testament to the hard work of my team and the dedication I’ve put into my career. It was an unforgettable moment that I will always cherish.”
Staying Ahead of the Curve
Elias Haddad: The hospitality industry is always evolving. How do you stay up-to-date with emerging trends and innovations to ensure your continued success in this dynamic field?
Ilkin Imanov: “To stay abreast of emerging trends and innovations in the hospitality industry, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa remains deeply engaged with industry publications, attends relevant conferences and seminars, and actively participates in networking events. Additionally, the hotel fosters a culture of curiosity and continuous learning among associates, encouraging them to explore new ideas and technologies that can enhance guest experiences.”
Motivating Excellence
Elias Haddad: As a leader in hospitality, how do you keep your team motivated to consistently deliver top-notch service and experiences for our guests?
Ilkin Imanov: “As the General Manager of The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, I firmly believe that our team members are the heart and soul of our hotel, and keeping them motivated is paramount to consistently delivering top-notch service. We achieve this by fostering a culture of excellence, empowerment, and inclusivity within our team.
Continuous training and development initiatives are at the forefront of our approach. By providing our team with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, we empower them to deliver exceptional service with confidence and expertise. Acknowledging and celebrating exceptional performance is another key aspect of our strategy. We believe in recognizing and rewarding our team members for their hard work, dedication, and achievements. We ensure that our team members feel valued and motivated to excel in their roles.
Furthermore, we cultivate an environment of inclusivity and support where every team member feels esteemed and empowered to offer their utmost. We foster open communication, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging among our team, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. By promoting diversity and inclusion, we harness the collective strength and talents of our team members to deliver exceptional service and create memorable experiences for our guests.”
Embracing Local Culture
Elias Haddad: Qatar is such a diverse and vibrant place. How does The Westin Doha Hotel & SPA embrace the local culture and community, celebrating its rich heritage and engaging with the people here?
Ilkin Imanov: “At the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, we embrace the rich tapestry of Qatar’s diverse culture and vibrant community in several meaningful ways. Through our culinary offerings, we showcase the authentic flavors of Qatar sourcing fresh ingredients from local markets.
Guests can discover a curated selection of souvenirs crafted by local artisans in our retail, showcasing the unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage of Qatar. From intricately designed handicrafts to artisanal products inspired by traditional Qatari motifs, these souvenirs serve as meaningful mementos of guests’ stay, allowing them to take a piece of Qatar’s rich culture home with them.
By offering these souvenirs, we not only support local artisans and businesses but also provide our guests with an opportunity to continue their journey of discovery and connection with Qatar long after they leave our hotel.”
Prioritizing Sustainability
Elias Haddad: Sustainability is a big focus nowadays. Can you tell us about the steps Westin Doha Hotel & SPA is taking to prioritize sustainability, making sure every action has a positive impact?
Ilkin Imanov: “At The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental part of our ethos. We’re passionate about minimizing our environmental impact and creating a greener future for generations to come. That’s why we’ve implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing our carbon footprint.
From energy-efficient LED lighting and smart temperature controls to innovative waste management programs and eco-friendly products, we’re constantly striving to do our part for the planet. Looking ahead to 2024, sustainability and innovation will remain at the forefront of our agenda. As awareness of environmental issues grows among our guests, we’re committed to integrating cutting-edge technologies that enhance their experience while reducing our ecological footprint.
Currently, we’re spearheading projects focused on energy conservation and water preservation. One notable initiative is our greywater recycling system, which purifies wastewater from guest rooms and public areas through a multi-stage filtration process. By harnessing the power of activated carbon filters and disinfection systems, we’re able to repurpose this water for landscaping and garden irrigation, further minimizing our environmental impact. At The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s a promise we’re dedicated to fulfilling every day.”
Integrating Wellness
Elias Haddad: The Westin brand is all about wellness. How does the hotel integrate wellness into every aspect of a guest’s stay, ensuring they feel rejuvenated and balanced during their time here?
Ilkin Imanov: “At The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, our commitment to well-being is at the core of everything we do. As a leading destination for wellness in Qatar, we empower our guests to elevate their travel experiences through our bespoke approach to well-being.
Our dedication to enhancing every aspect of our guests’ stay is reflected in our Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. From the moment our guests arrive, they are enveloped in an environment designed to help them rejuvenate and thrive. Our signature Heavenly Bed ensures a restful night’s sleep, while our Westin WORKOUT offerings, including state-of-the-art fitness facilities and personalized fitness programs, encourage guests to stay active and energized.
Additionally, our culinary team crafts delicious and nutritious menu options that cater to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring our guests can Eat Well and maintain their wellness goals while indulging in flavorful cuisine. Whether it’s finding balance in our spa and wellness offerings, staying productive in our collaborative workspaces, or simply enjoying moments of relaxation and recreation, we provide a holistic approach to well-being that empowers our guests to feel their best throughout their stay.
At The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, we believe that true well-being is about more than just physical health—it’s about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit to unlock the full potential of every individual.”
Personalized Experiences
Elias Haddad: Exceptional guest service is key in luxury hospitality. What special efforts do Westin Doha Hotel & SPA make to create unforgettable, personalized experiences for each guest?
Ilkin Imanov: “Exceptional guest service lies at the heart of The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s commitment to luxury hospitality. We believe that every guest deserves a personalized and unforgettable experience tailored to their individual needs and preferences.
To achieve this, we go above and beyond to anticipate and exceed our guests’ expectations at every touchpoint of their stay. From the moment they arrive, our dedicated team is trained to provide warm and attentive service, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and valued. We take the time to understand our guests’ interests, preferences, and special occasions, allowing us to curate bespoke experiences that resonate with them on a personal level.
Whether it’s arranging a surprise celebration, recommending hidden gems in the city, or accommodating special dietary requirements, we strive to create moments of delight and connection that leave a lasting impression.
Moreover, at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, we believe that true luxury is not just about lavish amenities or extravagant gestures, but about the genuine care and attention to detail that we pour into every guest interaction.”
The ‘Move Well’ Initiative
Elias Haddad: Can you give us some insight into the new ‘Move Well’ initiative at Westin Doha Hotel & SPA? How does it fit into the hotel’s vision for guest well-being, and what benefits can guests expect?
Ilkin Imanov: “At the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, we’re passionate about promoting physical activity and well-being among our guests through our innovative “Move Well” initiative. Collaborating with Education City Golf Club, we’ve introduced exciting amenities like our mini-golf course, providing guests with opportunities to stay active and energized during their stay, perfectly aligned with our vision for holistic guest well-being.
Furthermore, in our commitment to technological integration, we’ve partnered with Strava, a leading fitness tracking app, offering guests a complimentary platform to monitor their fitness progress, connect with fellow wellness enthusiasts, and contribute to a global community dedicated to wellness.
As part of this initiative, we’re proud to introduce the WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending Program, allowing guests to borrow high-tech recovery and total body strength training equipment from Bala and Hyperice whenever they desire. These initiatives reflect our dedication to optimizing our guests’ stay and ensuring they feel their best throughout their time with us.”
Shaping the Future
Elias Haddad: Looking ahead, how do you see the future of Westin Doha Hotel & SPA shaping up? What exciting prospects and endeavors are you working on to take the hotel forward?
Ilkin Imanov: “We envision The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking holistic wellness experiences, and sustainable hospitality in Qatar. Sustainability will stand at the forefront of our vision for the next two years. We are committed to not only providing exceptional hospitality experiences but also to doing so in a manner that minimizes our environmental impact and supports our local community.”
Nurturing Hospitality Success: Insights from a Seasoned Leader
Elias Haddad: Lastly, for those aspiring to a career in hospitality, especially hotel management, what advice would you give them based on your own journey and experiences?
Ilkin Imanov: “First of all, I would advise aspiring hoteliers to truly love what they do, regardless of their position in the market. Passion for hospitality is essential for success in this field.
Secondly, I would emphasize the importance of focusing on details. Success often lies in the details, and it’s the little things that set one hotel apart from another.
Additionally, never hesitate to learn and ask questions. Continuous learning through training programs and seeking knowledge from experienced professionals is key to personal and professional growth.
Networking is also crucial for career development in the hospitality industry. Building a strong professional network can open up new opportunities and provide valuable insights.”
Closing Thoughts
Through our conversation with Ilkin Imanov, the visionary General Manager of Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, we’ve embarked on a journey of discovery into the realm of unparalleled hospitality. His dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainability resonates deeply, illuminating the path toward a brighter future for luxury hospitality in Qatar and beyond.
His leadership exemplifies the transformative power of passion, attention to detail, and a steadfast vision for the future. As we bid farewell to this enriching conversation, let us carry forth the spirit of hospitality, guided by the principles of excellence and compassion, in all our endeavors.
The conversation with Ilkin Imanov, General Manager of Westin Doha Hotel & SPA, provides invaluable insights into the hotel’s ethos, commitment to excellence, and vision for the future. As Qatar’s hospitality landscape continues to evolve, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa stands as a testament to innovation, sustainability, and genuine guest-centric service.
LLQ Lifestyle Celebrates Qatar’s Hospitality Leaders
Explore more success stories and visionary insights from hospitality leaders like Ilkin Imanov, General Manager of Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, as we delve into Qatar’s dynamic lifestyle landscape. At LLQ Lifestyle, we’re dedicated to bringing you exclusive interviews, captivating narratives, and a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Qatar’s hospitality scene. Join us on this journey of discovery and inspiration. Subscribe now to LLQ Lifestyle and stay connected with the pulse of luxury living and hospitality excellence.
