Maram Kokandi, GM of Park Inn by Radisson KSA Jeddah Madinah Road, has proven that the sky’s the limit if you work hard enough. Here, she explains how she was able to conquer Saudi Arabia’s male-dominated hospitality industry to become the country’s first female general manager.
What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?
Without a shadow of a doubt, becoming Saudi Arabia’s first female general manager has been the highlight of my career. It was hard in the beginning, as I was the only female manager working in the hospitality sector. However, I am glad to be witnessing change thanks to the government’s support and women empowerment in the workplace.
What are the challenges you are facing, and how are you helping other women in their career development?
Despite the increasing number of women working in the hospitality industry, the stereotype that men make better leaders still exists. This mindset needs to change. In an effort to enhance the career development of other women, Radisson Hotel Group fosters a balanced environment to ensure team members have equal opportunities.
Do you believe that the hospitality industry offers equal opportunities?
Women empowerment has managed to make strides on several fronts. Today, women are taking on leadership roles and gaining acceptance in several fields across the hospitality industry.
How are you preparing for 2021?
Although the future appears uncertain, we’re positive that there will be some progress next year regarding travel. This will help boost hotel occupancy and encourage religious tourism.
About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
