Recruitment drive for Layia Hospitality

The company, which prides itself on a fresh approach to hotel operations, also aims to bring a new dynamic to hotel staffing, with an emphasis on personal service and letting staff be themselves.

"We are going to put our efforts and resources into the recruitment process, staff training and customer service.

We are keen on having the same respect for our customers, owner, staff and suppliers," says Daniel Hajjar, CEO, Layia Hospitality.

Hajjar, famous for his 'no ties' approach to management, wants to create a team of dedicated individuals who have a strong personality and a strong character in addition to being very comfortable in dealing with guests.

"What we are trying to do is portray a different approach to the hospitality business. You will not find anybody in Layia wearing a tie, for example. Equally, guests will not be met with rehearsed and impersonal greetings; we want to offer a genuine hospitality that is offered from individuals that have a soul," Hajjar says.

"We are going to hire people who are comfortable, professional, serious and experienced, but at the same time relaxed in the way they do business.

We aim to be the hotel management company of choice for owners of properties, potential customers, suppliers and employees alike.

We strive to make a refreshing difference in the delivery of a world-class product through dynamic hands-on leadership.

We will soon appoint an international HR consultant to assist us in developing a solid first class HR strategy with a special emphasis on recruitment, salary and benefits and retention" Hajjar said.

Launched in early 2008, Layia Hospitality is creating a world-class collection of four- and five-star hotels, luxury serviced villas and fully furnished apartments, with its first hotel property set to open in Dubai this summer.

Founded by GGICO (a public trading company in the UAE) and Daniel Hajjar, a veteran hotelier with over 25 years of experience gained in senior executive positions, Layia Hospitality is committed to delivering superior standards on all levels.

Three distinct brands will make up the Layia Hospitality portfolio: Layia Hotels, Living Courts and a three-star hotel brand that is soon to be announced. Layia Hotels contains three elements: Layia Hotels, Layia Hotel Hotels & Residences and Layia Serviced Villas.

Layia Hospitality currently has 9 properties signed and these will be open in the next 18 months. The company is also in advanced negotiations for six more properties.