Ravinder Dhesi, general manager of JW Marriott Gold Coast and a Fijian national, is celebrating 25 years of service with Marriott International this month. Dhesi began his hospitality career in 1999 at the finance department of ITT Sheraton Resort Denarau in Fiji. Over the years, he has worked at various Marriott properties, including locations in Noosa, the Gold Coast, and Denarau, before returning to the Gold Coast.
Throughout his career, Dhesi has achieved notable milestones, such as overseeing the full renovation, rebranding, and launch of the first JW Marriott in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. He has received multiple awards for the resort and was named 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 guidance of mentors, and the support from family and friends. He emphasizes the importance of having mentors within the industry, particularly looking up to Fijian tourism leaders like Mr. Radike Qereqeretabua and Mr. Tony Whitton, and also following the success of Mr. Andre Viljoen and his team at Fiji Airways.
He believes that having a vision and a personal career plan is crucial for inspiration and growth. Dhesi reflects on the qualities of resilience, persistence, and a hunger for success that have driven him throughout his career, quoting Mr. Marriott, the chairman emeritus of Marriott International, on the idea that “Success is never final.”
Expressing gratitude for the support he has received from his family and mentors, Dhesi encourages others to surround themselves with a supportive group of people in pursuit of their career aspirations. He hopes his journey serves as an inspiration to fellow Fijians in the hospitality industry.
Dhesi believes the tourism industry is vital to Fiji’s economy and envisions an opportunity to blend exemplary service with the country’s warm hospitality to achieve the billion-dollar growth noted by Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill.