Michael Mounir
Director of Sales and Distribution, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

What qualities are essential for success in a director role such as yours in the luxury hospitality industry?
Adaptability is crucial for success, particularly in an increasingly unpredictable world. Leaders must embrace an adaptive leadership style, embodying empathy, open-mindedness, accountability, flexibility and creativity. This entails the ability to adjust leadership approaches according to the circumstances. At times, leaders must lead from the front, setting an example. In other instances, leading from alongside the team fosters unity. Additionally, leading from the back involves mentoring and coaching, allowing team members to take the lead and receive deserved recognition.

What are the most challenging and the most enjoyable parts of your job?
Working in hospitality is more like show business; you are always on stage, which adds a lot of excitement and enjoyment to the role. However, this constant visibility also brings stress, requiring intense focus and adaptability to swiftly adjust your strategies and approach in response to evolving demands or audience preferences.

How many years have you been in Bahrain and what makes living here special?
I’ve had the privilege of residing in the Kingdom for the past eight years, cherishing every moment. I often recount living in Bahrain with the same sentiment I express when representing my hotel and the Kingdom at international travel shows – it’s the warmth and hospitality of the Bahraini people. Their welcoming nature, coupled with a spirit of peace and coexistence, creates a unique atmosphere that embraces everyone, from the country’s leaders and citizens to expatriates like me.