Ravinder Dhesi, the general manager of JW Marriott Gold Coast and a Fijian national, recently celebrated 25 years of service with Marriott International. Dhesi began his hospitality career in the finance department at the ITT Sheraton Resort in Denarau, Fiji, in 1999. Over the years, he has worked at various Marriott properties in Noosa, the Gold Coast, and Denarau, before returning to the Gold Coast.
One of Dhesi’s significant achievements includes overseeing the complete renovation, rebranding, and launch of the first JW Marriott property in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. He has received multiple accolades for the resort, as well as personal honors such as Global JW Marriott brand General Manager of the Year and Marriott International APEC Luxury General Manager of the Year in 2022.
Dhesi attributes his success to a strong work ethic, the mentorship he has received, and the support of his family and friends. He has drawn inspiration from notable figures in the Fijian tourism industry, including Mr. Radike Qereqeretabua and Mr. Tony Whitton, as well as Mr. Andre Viljoen and his team at Fiji Airways.
He emphasizes the importance of having a vision and a personal career plan that motivates individuals. Dhesi believes that resilience, persistence, and taking advantage of opportunities are critical for success, echoing Mr. Marriott’s saying that “success is never final.”
As he reflects on his career, Dhesi expresses deep gratitude for the support from his family, mentors, and friends who have encouraged him to strive for excellence. He aims to inspire other Fijians pursuing careers in the hospitality sector, highlighting the importance of tourism in Fiji’s economy and the potential for growth through exemplary service paired with the intrinsic warmth of the Fijian people.