64 December 2016 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview Anwar Hajjar When BTM met with Anwar, he was in the midst of making arrangements for an event while ricocheting between meetings. Such is the life of the person who coordinates the business development process. Having recently rejoined the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa as director of business development, Anwar is fuelled by a fervent passion to achieve his responsibilities successfully. “The property has a special place in my heart,” he says. “After gathering experience from a multitude of institutions during the span of my career, I realised that my greatest learning curve was facilitated under the guidance of the Diplomat Radisson’s general manager, Panos Panagis. I decided that it was time to go back and reciprocate my gratitude while leveling up my professional growth.” He has had a remarkable journey in the industry ever since he ventured into it at the tender age of 16. “I graduated in hospitality management from DIRECTING THE FUTURE Germany, and have had enriching work experiences in Europe, Lebanon, Dubai, Oman and Bahrain,” he explains. “I was initially with a another hotel as head of event sales and then moved to the Diplomat Radisson as director of sales for corporate and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE). Then I moved to Fraser Suites in the Diplomatic Area as director of sales and marketing before rejoining the current property.” Amwar’s enthusiasm for his work is such that he is always looking for the next challenge. “We are constantly innovating and looking for out-of-the-box concepts,” he says. “The market is peppered with ever-changing trends and I take it upon myself to offer clients the best there is out there.” When asked about the challenges faced in Bahrain’s hospitality sector and how the market differs from the rest of the world, he responds: “I have witnessed the tremendous economic progress of the Kingdom over the years and I believe that if we have a good product, people PUJA TIWARI Charismatic hotelier Anwar Hajjar is the man who directs everything behind the scenes at this five-star property. He tells us more about what keeps him riveted to the field. will come to you no matter how many new hotels mushroom on the scene. “We, here at the property, believe in achieving supreme quality. The situation is tough, but I am sure we can maintain our value just through the commitment we have to excellence.” Another aspect that Anwar cherishes is the time he spends with his family. “I devote whatever free time I have to taking care of my family,” he adds. “Knowing that I have achieved equilibrium between my personal and work life helps me unwind after a long day.” He elaborates on the lineup of festivities for this year by saying: “We have a very exciting Christmas Tree lighting and gingerbread house decoration competition in the lobby area on December 6. There will be a sumptuous Christmas Eve dinner at Mondo and an impressive brunch on December 23 and 25 at the Grand Ambassador Ballroom. Finally, we conclude the year by travelling back in time with a swinging ‘60s soiree at the Havana Nightclub for New Year’s Eve.”
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