Hanan Sheshtawi appointed to Abu Dhabi Grand

Ms Sheshtawi, born in Alexandria-Egypt moved to Canada at the age of six. It's in Alberta, Canada that she became Certified General Accountant and was awarded the highest grade in IT in all of Canada in March 1990.

Her career span over the last 15 years covers an astonishing number of high-profile positions in the United States where she was Director of Finance and Customer service for a chain of 150 fine dining restaurants in California.

Before that she was a key player as Financial Controller of the opening team of Downtown Disney. She also held the position of Director of Finance and Human Resources at Marbella Golf and Country Club, one of the finest private Clubs in California. She was also Financial Controller for RCI Management Inc., a time-sharing and management company of twenty- five International Distinguished Resorts.

Ms Sheshtawi's uniqueness comes from her multi-skills in Finance, Human Resources as well as Operations. Her new and refreshing approach makes her the right person to hold the reigns of the hotel during the interim period.

At the Abu Dhabi Grand, this dynamic lady has taken charge of the Financial department while overseeing operations of the existing facilities and playing a key role in the extension and refurbishment project that will take place soon.

'From the re-branding onwards, Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi will be known as the premier luxury property for business travellers and visitors alike, Ms Sheshtawi said.

'This will be the result of a hard working team, the recruitment of the right people and the introduction of new service ethics with attention to details and personal touches, which will make the guests feel special' she added.

'With the tough competition in the city, we are basing our guest satisfaction on our employees satisfaction first. It's only when you're happy and satisfied that you can really excel in providing services and exceed customer's expectations'.

Ms. Sheshtawi is new to the Gulf region and specifically to Abu Dhabi, but with her worldwide expertise, she is sure to give the capital's hospitality industry a new twist.