World’s Phenomenal Leaders in Hospitality, 2023

1. Vol. 12 | Issue 09 | December 2023 www.worldsleaders.com WORLD’S Phenomenal Leaders in Hospitality, 2023 General Manager EM HOTELS Carlos Carlos Carlos MONROY MONROY MONROY A Hospitality Veteran Leading EM Hotels to Excellence

4. World’s Phenomenal Leaders in Hospitality, 2023 Making Hospitality Luxury Providing exceptional customer service is one of the most crucial components of a hotel executive's job, as every skilled one knows. But becoming a great leader in the hospitality industry requires more than just having outstanding customer service skills. Building a solid team is essential to being a successful leader in the hospitality industry. encompass various aspects of the field, including Food & Beverage, Hospitality Management, Hotel Booking, Hotel Management, and Rooms Division. Carlos has received specialized training in Revenue Management for Hotels, holding a Diplomado from Universidad Externado de Colombia. For this, particular management skills and qualities are crucial. One can progress forward in any area of the hospitality industry and his/her leadership skills with a business degree in hospitality. A leader in hospitality holds a prominent position within an organization. The person could be employed as a director of operations for a hotel company, a senior manager for a travel or hospitality company, or in revenue management. A figure of authority in the hotel business needs to inspire their team, focus them on a single goal, and emphasize giving exceptional customer service. The leader will take the lead to ensure that the business exceeds customer expectations. World Leader's latest edition “World’s Phenomenal Leaders in Hospitality, 2023” has featured leaders in hospitality who has the ability to use technology for improved guest experiences, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. Before launching EM Hotels a couple of years ago, Carlos was a part of the "Dorado Plaza" hotel chain. During his tenure there, he leveraged his experience in marketing and brand positioning to enhance the national and international visibility of the hotel chain. Under his leadership, the chain successfully conceptualized, developed, and operated seven hotel properties. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts. Have a lovely read! The cover features Carlos Monroy, the General Manager at EM HOTELS. He brings with him a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. His skills

5. CREDIT PAGE Editor-in-Chief Steve Sanchez Managing Editor Jagdish Chincholikar Executive Editor Nicole Williams Assistant Editor Gayatri Bhujbal Art & Design Director Jack Anderson Business Development Manager Mary Jane Business Development Executive Natalie, Jerrey Associate Designer Kevin Rust Digital Marketing Manager Victor Clarke Sales Manager Megan Morgan, Irfan Shekh Marketing Manager Tom Swann Technical Specialist Barry Jones Circulation Manager Danny Parker December 2023 3296 Westerville Rd #250, Columbus, OH 43224, USA Copyright 2023 WORLD’S LEADERS, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WORLD’S LEADERS Reprint rights remain solely with WORLD’S LEADERS. Follow us on :

6. 10 Carlos Mon?y Carlos Mon?y A Hospitality Veteran Leading EM Hotels to Excellence

7. 18 Alexander Suski 22 Anish Kuttan Ayman Baky 26 32 Denis Sorin Dupe Olusola 36 40 Kaustubh Sur Liliam M. Lopez 46 Maggie Hardy 50 54 Rasha Al Danhani

10. CARLOS MONROY A Hospitality Veteran Leading EM Hotels to Excellence 10 | December 2023

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12. Carlos Monroy is the General Manager at EM HOTELS, and he brings with him a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. His skills encompass various aspects of the field, including Food & Beverage, Hospitality Management, Hotel Booking, Hotel Management, and Rooms Division. Carlos has received specialized training in Revenue Management for Hotels, holding a Diplomado from Universidad Externado de Colombia. Before launching EM Hotels a couple of years ago, Carlos was a part of the "Dorado Plaza" hotel chain. During his tenure there, he leveraged his experience in marketing and brand positioning to enhance the national and international visibility of the hotel chain. Under his leadership, the chain successfully conceptualized, developed, and operated seven hotel properties. However, the hotel chain underwent a division, with one part being retained by his brother, maintaining the name Dorado Plaza. Carlos established his firm, EM Hotels, in honor of his parents, Eduardo and his mother. From this point, EM Hotels began operating hotels in Colombia, including the Cartagena Plaza in Cartagena and the Andes Plaza in Bogotá. Additionally, they started marketing 12 | December 2023

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14. hotels in Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Carlos's journey in the hospitality industry reflects his dedication and passion for delivering exceptional experiences to guests. the market dynamics, location, and the existing as well as prospective competition. EM Hotels extends its advisory services to investors, guided by the chosen product-service concept. This guidance covers aspects such as architectural planning, technical system design, and technological solutions, all aimed at optimizing the investment, enhancing the hotel's operational efficiency, and ensuring the safety and security of guests. Offering Comprehensive Hotel Solutions At EM Hotels, the team specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for the conceptualization, construction, development, marketing, and operation of diverse accommodation services across multiple brands and segments. They excel in hotel management and maintain a focus on quality-certified hotels. The primary objective is to achieve guest satisfaction, facilitate the development of the potential of their collaborators, and deliver the highest possible profitability for investors. Leveraging their knowledge and experience, EM Hotels is adept at achieving increased revenue and cost structure improvements that translate into tangible competitive advantages for their clients. Their portfolio includes lodging experiences in Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic, offering a diverse range of options to meet the needs and preferences of travelers in these regions. The company's approach revolves around defining the concept of product-service that can yield the greatest returns for investors, taking into account various factors including 14 | December 2023

15. essential for personal and professional development in the leadership role. Ideas to Bringing Positive Change Carlos highlights several key areas he would like to see improved in society, the hospitality industry/organization, and people's lives: Invest in building a high-trust culture. Train and develop people exceptionally well. Effective practices for recognizing employees for jobs well done. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Carlos also emphasizes the importance of going the extra mile to surprise and delight not just guests but also employees. This commitment to exceptional service and a positive workplace can lead to improved experiences and outcomes for all involved. Commitment to Lifelong Learning Navigating Responsibility and Joy in the Hospitality Industry Carlos holds a strong belief in the continuous pursuit of learning and improvement, both in leadership and business skills. He actively enrolls in courses, seeks new experiences, and avidly reads books that contribute to his growth as a leader in his field. His approach involves viewing "problems" as opportunities for improvement and learning from them. In his role as a General Manager, Carlos carries the significant responsibility of overseeing the hotel's performance. Every decision he makes directly influences the operational and strategic outcomes of the hotel. Despite the weight of these responsibilities, Carlos finds immense joy in his daily routine. He derives great satisfaction from witnessing the happy expressions on the faces of both the guests and the hotel's dedicated team. This knowledge that they are collectively working to provide the best possible experiences for guests is undoubtedly the most fulfilling aspect of his work. In Carlos's view, emerging leaders should possess several key qualities, including patience, a genuine willingness to learn, high levels of engagement, resilience in the face of challenges, and the ability to positively influence others. These attributes are worldsleaders.com | 15

16. Key Traits for a High Performing Team being left behind, it's crucial to embrace innovation and stay informed about the latest hospitality technology trends. Technology in the hospitality industry primarily revolves around enhancing the guest experience, streamlining operations, creating new revenue opportunities, and improving overall efficiency. Some of the innovations in the industry include "smart" rooms, mobile check-in and check-out, advanced chatbots powered by AI, and the integration of virtual reality, among others. While technology plays an increasingly significant role in the industry, it's equally important for hotels not to overlook the personal interactions that guests expect and value. Balancing technological advancements with personalized service remains a key consideration in the hospitality sector. itself as a well-known hotel chain in the South American hospitality industry. Starting from scratch in such a competitive field is undoubtedly a challenging choice. Carlos places significant importance on several key traits when considering new team members. These include alignment with the company's principles and values, possessing the necessary knowledge and preparation, demonstrating leadership skills and proactive behavior, and displaying a strong commitment to learning and contributing to ongoing improvement. However, Carlos is optimistic about the future of EM Hotels. He envisions that within the next five years, EM Hotels will solidify its position as one of Colombia's most renowned multi- brand and multi-segment hotel marketers and operators. This vision reflects his confidence and determination in leading the company toward greater recognition and success in the industry. By seeking individuals with these traits, Carlos aims to build a strong and dynamic team that is aligned with the company's values and committed to achieving success and continuous improvement. By 2030, Carlos and EM Hotels have a vision of becoming one of Colombia's most renowned multi-brand and multi- segment hotel marketers and operators. Despite being a relatively new player in the hotel operation and commercialization sector, they bring several years of valuable experience to the industry. Blending Technology and Personalized Service An Inspiring Vision Carlos acknowledges that the decision to create a new hotel chain and depart from Dorado Plaza was a significant risk. Dorado Plaza had established Carlos recognizes the high competition within the hospitality sector, as new hotels continue to emerge year after year. To stay competitive and avoid EM Hotels is dedicated to making a positive impact on Colombia's hotel industry and actively participates in key events, fairs, and forums globally. Their goal is to expand their market presence in foreign countries and further enhance their position in the international hospitality market. 16 | December 2023

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18. ALEXANDER SUSKI 18 | December 2023

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22. ANISH KUTTAN 22 | December 2023

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33. Denis Denis Denis Sorin Sorin Sorin Redefining Hospitality in Emerging Markets by Mastering Hospitality Excellence worldsleaders.com | 33

34. The Center Amsa Hospitality, a novel Saudi Arabian venture, melds expertise with daring visions. Positioned as the 'hallmark of Arabian hospitality,' Amsa Hospitality aims to bring centuries-old Arabian traditions of welcoming and generosity into alignment with the expectations of today's guests. Amsa Hospitality's cutting-edge facilities revolutionize hospitality, adapting timeless Arabian traditions for discerning business travelers and exceeding expectations by proposing quality lifestyle midscale properties in carefully selected locations. Hospitality and the world-renowned hospitality giant, Accor, joined forces. The objective of this partnership is to develop economy and midscale branded properties strategically located in carefully selected second-tier cities throughout Saudi Arabia. The alliance is set to last for 10 years, aiming to capitalize on the combined expertise and strengths of both companies to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences in these emerging markets. Forging a Powerful Partnership Amsa Hospitality has established itself as one of the fastest-growing companies in the hospitality industry. The company is presently in the process of expanding its portfolio in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, boasting a remarkable collection of over 18 properties, and has ambitious plans to add more in Saudi Arabia and the GCC before venturing into the global market. In a significant collaboration that took place in May 2023, Amsa The company firmly believes in being the hallmark of Arabian hospitality by introducing novel solutions and proposals to an industry that is currently in the process of reshaping itself. As a Citizen Company championing Corporate Social Responsibility, Amsa Hospitality reimagines hotels, embracing challenges to innovate and grow while honoring their roots. Quest to Establish Amsa Hospitality as a Global Hospitality Powerhouse Amsa Hospitality is currently in its early stages of development, with grand aspirations for the future. The company has set its sights on 34 | December 2023

35. W With an extensive and diverse background of over 30 years in the hospitality industry, Denis Sorin brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Having held executive positions in renowned hotel groups worldwide, he has mastered the art of building exceptional hotel brands from scratch. His approach combines a harmonious blend of creativity, strategic marketing, and operational excellence, igniting his drive for success. Denis serves as the esteemed leader at Amsa Hospitality, where he is responsible for shaping the company's strategic and operational direction. He uses his extensive experience to guide the organization toward sustainable growth, profitability, and overall success. He focuses on accomplishing ambitious goals and objectives, propelling the company to new heights within the industry. unveiling its distinctive Arabian lifestyle hotel brand in the fourth quarter of 2024 and has even more ambitious plans to extend its global presence by establishing properties in key cities across the world. Drawing inspiration from esteemed hospitality pioneers like Conrad Hilton and Gérard Pélisson, the co- founder of Accor, Denis leads the charge as an entrepreneur dedicated to carefully implementing the exceptional vision established by Mohammad Alathel – Amsa Hospitality creator. lifelong project, fueled by an unwavering passion and relentless determination. individuals find themselves trapped in jobs they dislike, making work feel like a burdensome chore. Considering that we spend at least a third of our lives working, he believes that both society and people's lives would significantly benefit from ensuring everyone has a fulfilling job, no matter the nature of the work. Denis firmly believes that in the fast- paced world of today, new leaders must have the ability to quickly grasp and address the expectations of their teams and customers. The old management styles are no longer effective, and long-term success depends on a leader's capacity to constantly think outside the box, actively listen to both verbal and non-verbal communication, learn from mistakes and competitors' triumphs, and above all, persistently challenge themselves to forge ahead. The key to making work enjoyable is straightforward in principle but challenging to put into practice. It involves replacing authoritative micro-managing bosses with true leaders who genuinely care for their employees and the overall success of the company, rather than solely pursuing their personal interests. Motivated by their unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements in the industry, Denis is determined to make Amsa Hospitality a prominent player in the market. He views this venture as a Vision for Fulfilling and Inclusive Jobs According to Denis, far too many worldsleaders.com | 35

36. Dupe Olusola A Distinguished Business Leader with Experience Spans Various Sectors Locally and Internationally Journey to Achieving Proficiency Dupe always had a strong desire to make a positive impact on African economies by creating employment opportunities and addressing poverty. From a young age, she was drawn to watching CNN and keeping up with global events. This led her to study economics at the University of Leicester and then specialize in development Economics, focusing her thesis on the impact of aid and trade on growth in developing economies. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Transcorp Hotels' brands are uniquely identifiable and collectively powerful. The company's expanding portfolio of award-winning and innovative brands ensures superior guest experiences across its key locations and all touchpoints. The hotels have hosted numerous notable personalities, making them destination venues for business leaders and celebrities visiting Nigeria. Transcorp Hotels has undergone notable changes since its inception in 1994 and has achieved significant milestones. After obtaining her degrees, Dupe worked with Bloomberg and Northern Trust in the United Kingdom before returning to Nigeria. In Nigeria, she worked with SecTrust (now Afrinvest) and Africa's leading Private Equity Firm SME Manager/African Capital Alliance. She then joined the Investor Relations department of the UBA group in 2008 before eventually becoming the Director of Resources at Transcorp in January 2010. Leading NigerianHospitality Service Provider Transcorp Hotels Plc is a leading hospitality company in Africa and is listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX). The company owns the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, which is Africa's premier business hotel. However, in response to the pandemic, Transcorp Hilton Abuja introduced innovative strategies that enabled it to cater to a wider range of guests, including those in the leisure segment, leading the way in serving the rapidly growing Bleisure market. The company also owns Aura by Transcorp Hotels, a rapidly expanding digital platform for booking hotels, apartments, and experiences. Launched in 2021 as part of the company's asset-light strategy, Aura by Transcorp Hotels is helping to accelerate growth and expand into new markets. The platform currently offers over 5,000 rooms across different hotels and apartments nationwide, and the company is leveraging technology to drive further expansion. Transcorp Hotels Plc. Transcorp Hotels Plc is a subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, a diversified conglomerate with interests in the Power, Hospitality, and Oil & Gas sectors. Transcorp Hotels Plc was established in Nigeria on July 12, 1994, and is responsible for managing prestigious properties such as the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Transcorp Hotels Calabar, and Aura by Transcorp Hotels, an online booking platform for homes, hotels, and experiences. 36 | December 2023

37. Dupe Olusola is the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, which is considered to be the leading hospitality brand in Africa and is the proud owner of the award-winning Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja and Transcorp Hotels in Calabar. Before assuming her current role, she served as the Group Marketing Director at United Bank for Africa where she cherished working with an excellent team. Additionally, she held the position of Chief Executive Officer at Teragro Commodities Limited, a Nigeria-based agricultural company and the agribusiness subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (now Transnational Corporation Plc) which she was appointed to in 2014. worldsleaders.com | 37

38. Transcorp Hotels Plc works closely with various stakeholders and introduces innovative offers to improve demand while expanding its business. In 2024, the company is set to deliver a world-class event center at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, while also developing a new five- star hotel in the heart of Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria. With its commitment to innovation, technology, and customer satisfaction, Transcorp Hotels Plc is well- positioned to maintain its leadership position in the hospitality industry in Africa. Leading with Passion and Confidence Dupe is a dynamic, fearless, and joyful individual who savors life both in and outside of work. She believes in seizing every opportunity to learn and gain fresh experiences to become the best version of herself each day, reflecting her personal values of excellence, integrity, and kindness, as well as her family's values. Dupe is convinced that nothing is impossible and that there is always a way to accomplish any goal, no matter how difficult it may seem. She has a confident and determined attitude towards challenges and is always eager to build and maintain strong relationships. While she can come across as tough and straightforward at times, it is always for the greater good, as she refuses to settle for anything less than the best in all that she does. practice, team onboarding, and induction processes. These guiding principles are not limited to Transcorp Hotels Plc alone, as they are shared throughout the entire Transcorp Group. This has resulted in a strong culture of integrity and innovation, which has played a significant role in the company's ongoing growth and success. Success for Dupe Dupe recognizes that success is a subjective concept that varies from person to person. To her, success is all about striving to be the best version of oneself and constantly pursuing growth in all areas to achieve exceptional results. For her, achieving success has been about living a well- rounded life that encompasses social, emotional, mental, physical, and financial aspects. She has always been willing to break boundaries and challenge the norm, both individually and as part of a team, to meet and surpass set goals. Dupe also values being teachable and open-minded to new learning experiences, as she believes that anyone can impart valuable knowledge. Being authentic is equally essential to her, and she strives to remain true to herself and her values. With the support of her family and team, Dupe has accomplished a great deal, and she continues to set new goals for herself, aiming to attain even greater success. At Transcorp Hotels Plc, Dupe's role involves providing strategic direction for Transcorp Hotels, including developing strategies and advising leaders on how to achieve the company's goals. The company has cultivated a culture of excellence and enterprise, with motivated and self-driven employees who are supported with great working conditions, career progression opportunities, and new challenges to keep them motivated. Dupe finds joy in interacting with colleagues and family and seeing daily growth. Values to Maintain a Culture of Integrity Transcorp Hotels Plc's organizational culture is founded on three core values: excellence, execution, and enterprise, which are commonly referred to as the three Es. These values form the foundation of the company's beliefs and actions. At Transcorp Hotels Plc, the team strives for excellence by delivering real results through effective performance. It believes that enterprise is essential to innovation, and that integrity is key to executing with excellence, which involves ensuring that all stakeholders are committed to achieving the company's shared goal. Always Try to Learn New The advice from Dupe to aspiring leaders is that their team is there to provide support, and that their success is intertwined with the success of the team. To achieve success, they must continue to push boundaries and shatter any perceived limitations. They should be willing to embrace opportunities, even if they fear failure, as taking a chance is better than not trying at all. It's important to recognize that no one can accomplish everything alone, and networking and collaborating with others who share similar goals is key to achieving optimal growth. Developing strategic partnerships is also important for success. Transcorp Hotels Plc's core values are integral to its daily operations, and the company is committed to upholding them in all aspects of its business, including its standards of 38 | December 2023

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47. LILIAM M. LOPEZ Miami's Most Influential Executive Helping Business Leaders and Organizations to Achieve Constant Growth worldsleaders.com | 47

48. Liliam M. López, “Lily” President/CEO and founder of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC), is a highly accomplished individual who has dedicated her career to empowering and advocating for Hispanic communities. She has served in various leadership roles in organizations such as the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Spanish American League Against Discrimination, and the Alliance for Aging. Additionally, López is a sought-after motivational speaker and has been invited to speak at various events and commencement ceremonies. Through her work with the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, she has helped provide scholarships to financially disadvantaged Hispanic students. López has also been recognized for her leadership and invited to participate in a private roundtable discussion with President Barack Obama in Miami. She has served on numerous boards, including the Entrepreneurial Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's Regional Economic Information Network and the Board of Directors of WLRN Public Radio and Television. She currently serves on three prestigious boards: Adrienne Arsht Center of the Performing Arts Trust Board, the Miami Dade Beacon Council and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. López's dedication to her community and her impressive accomplishments make her a true leader and role model.She currently serves on five prestigious boards: different Mayors of Miami Dade County, and the City Keys to the City of Miami Beach presented by the Honorable Mayor David Dermer on June 20, 2002. For 10 years Lopez was the producer and host of a weekly television show, “Panorama con Liliam Lopez” that aired on WLRN Cable-Tap. The program highlighted the career of executives, elected officials, and entrepreneurs at the local, State and national levels. The pandemic required Lopez to pivot. She launched a digital show, "A Business Minute with Lily Lopez", which is featured on all social media platforms reaching over 23,000 businesses. South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) is a non- profit organization that was founded in 1994 with the goal of promoting business leadership, creating economic opportunities, and providing legislative advocacy for the Hispanic business community in South Florida. With a diverse population of approximately 70% Hispanics, Miami-Dade County serves as a gateway to the Americas and offers immense potential for companies to do business with people from different backgrounds and experiences. The SFLHCC provides opportunities for its members through local programs aimed at improving the economic condition of the Hispanic population. The organization has over 1,650 members and advocates for thousands of Hispanic businesses in Florida. It is recognized as one of the top five most influential Hispanic chambers in the country and one of the leading Hispanic business organizations in Florida. The SFLHCC is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization. The chamber serves as a platform to promote business leadership, create economic prospects, and provide legislative advocacy for the Hispanic business community in South Florida. Under Liliam's leadership, the SFLHCC has flourished into one of the most resilient Hispanic chambers in the United States, boasting a membership of over 1,650 individuals. Additionally, the SFLHCC Foundation has awarded more than $975,000 in scholarships to underprivileged students of Miami Beach Senior High School and Miami Liliam graduated from St. Thomas University with a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Political Science in 1988. Liliam M. Lopez has received numerous awards, she was recently awarded a Honorary Doctor degree in Humane Letters from St. Thomas University, 15 Proclamations from 48 | December 2023

49. Springs High School who are pursuing careers in the fields of Business and Hospitality. The Foundation's Education Enrichment Fellowship Program, which is a component of its efforts, has taken students to significant destinations such as Microsoft headquarters, Facebook, Comcast, Southwest Airlines, the nation's Capital, and other significant venues, in order to empower these young people. These initiatives contributed to the SFLHCC Foundation's recognition as a Champion of the Miami-Dade County Public School's Academy of Hospitality and Tourism. ceremonies, television appearances, and overseeing the organization's social media platforms. She also hosts a digital show called "Business Minute with Lily Lopez." Liliam finds the greatest joy in seeing the success of her organization. One of the most satisfying moments is observing the high attendance ranging from 200 to 400+ at the chamber luncheons held every month. Additionally, she feels a sense of accomplishment seeing her LinkedIn following reach over 16,000 followers. Liliam's happiness stems from the growth and success of the organization she founded with only four members. On Path of Successful Leader Liliam is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of her organization. Her duties include coordinating chamber luncheons, meetings, awards Liliam shares the significance of several critical attributes for a successful leader. Firstly, humility is a vital characteristic that a leader should possess. worldsleaders.com | 49

50. MAGGIE HARDY HARDY An Inspiring Woman Executive MAGGIE HARDY HARDY 50 | December 2023