Asif Ikram
Hotel General Manager
Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,KP
Summary
I am an Irish citizen, With a distinguished career in the hospitality industry spanning over 22 years, I have had the privilege of working in renowned hotels and resorts worldwide. From Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Radisson, and Dromoland Castle to Clarion Hotels in Ireland and the UK, my journey has been marked by a deep-rooted passion for hospitality and customer service. This unwavering commitment has propelled me into roles of progressive responsibility, with a focus on Food and Beverage. As a seasoned hotel professional, I have refined my skills across various departments, including food and beverage, housekeeping, front office, and hotel operations. This diverse experience equips me with a comprehensive understanding of Hotel Management and the ability to identify and implement improvements that boost productivity, engage employees, and significantly enhance customer experience. My guiding principle to my team is “Wherever you are, whatever you are, give your best”. This philosophy is not just a statement, but a testament to my track record of service enhancements and incremental revenue growth in every role I have undertaken, all of which have directly contributed to increased customer satisfaction.
Customer-oriented General Manager with 20 more years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented consistently executes and completes multiple projects in high-stress environments. Meticulous leader and strategic planner with comprehensive managerial acumen, offering vision and motivational acumen.
Serviced-focused General Manager dedicated to delivering positive customer experiences to promote loyalty and repeat business. Orchestrates optimal resource utilization to handle expected operational needs. Sales leader with sound judgment, good planning abilities and interpersonal communication strengths. Customer-oriented General Manager with more than 20 years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented consistently executes and completes multiple projects in high-stress environments. Meticulous leader and strategic planner with comprehensive managerial acumen, offering vision and motivational acumen.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
2023
2023
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
3
3
Languages
Work History
General Manager
Peshawar Serena Hotel
Peshawar, KP
12.2022 - Current
- I manage a 140-bedroom property that generates $3.5 million in annual revenue.
- Additionally, I develop and oversee hotel-wide renovation projects through to completion, ensuring that they stay within budget, and are completed on time.
- I increased guest satisfaction scores by a 12% increase in surveys on attentiveness, cleanliness, and quality of the front of the house, as well as food and beverage service in all outlets.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
- Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Drove the successful execution of numerous large-scale events/promotions while closely managing costs/budgetary constraints associated with event planning/management activities.
- Led team to exceed sales targets, implementing motivational incentives and comprehensive training programs.
- Pioneered corporate social responsibility program, building community engagement and enhancing brand reputation.
Hotel Manager/ Corporate Director FnB
Hashoo Group
Islamabad, Federal Capital
01.2015 - 12.2022
- As a Property Hotel Manager and Corporate Food and Beverage Director, I oversee all aspects of hotel operations and the organization's food and beverage elements of group hospitality.
- I was responsible for ensuring the smooth running of hotel operations, focusing on revenue generation, profitability, excellent product quality, and services.
- I have a diverse operational leadership background and am a strategic, forward-thinking leader with a demonstrated ability to plan, execute, organize, and communicate directives for our group's food and beverage operations, marketing, and catering initiatives.
- In addition, I conduct consistent and documented property inspections/reviews to gauge operational performance, cleanliness, and adherence to the hotel, brand, local, national, and international regulatory requirements.
- Developed and implemented marketing strategies to promote hotel services.
- Established a positive work culture that promoted teamwork, collaboration, and employee morale.
- Managed hotel operations for seamless functioning, ensuring high levels of efficiency and guest satisfaction.
- Improved the quality of food offerings in on-site restaurants by working closely with chefs on menu development and presentation techniques.
- Hired and trained new employees, demonstrating best methods for serving clients and guests.
- Maintained strict adherence to budgetary guidelines while allocating resources effectively across departments.
- Ensured compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to hotel operations and licensing requirements.
- Collaborated with sales teams on promotional strategies designed to drive increased interest in lodging at our establishment.
Food and Beverage Manager
Hill Brooke Hotel at The William Cecil Hotel Stamford UK
07.2013 - 12.2014
- As the Food and Beverage manager, my primary responsibility was to ensure that all hotel operations related to F&B were functioning smoothly.
- This included administering and coordinating the restaurants and bars within budgetary constraints, while upholding high standards to surpass customer expectations.
- I managed the day-to-day operations of the restaurants and bars, including staffing rotas, and maintaining departmental cleanliness.
- I was also responsible for setting and communicating standards to all employees to ensure a professional, hygienic, and well-presented environment for our guests.
- Additionally, I motivated, trained, and developed all team members, providing annual departmental training plans, and facilitating six-monthly performance reviews and job chats with all team members to set personal goals.
- I controlled the center’s variable costs budget to maximize profits and scheduled and conducted daily, weekly, and monthly operations meetings.
- To ensure that guest expectations were consistently exceeded, I managed duty management shifts on a rota basis, and was responsible for communicating all information to the team.
- Responded to customer complaints, addressing concerns, and distress with amicable interactions.
- Resolved customer concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
- Collaborated with chefs and kitchen staff to ensure high-quality food preparation and timely delivery to customers.
- Oversaw the hiring process for new employees, selecting top talent to join our team.
- Developed ongoing training initiative to improve beverage knowledge of serving employees.
Director Operations
Carlton Hotel / Pakistan
06.2012 - 07.2013
- As the operations overseer, my primary responsibility is to ensure the financial success of the property, which includes rooms, food and beverage services, and banquet facilities.
- I plan and control budgets to achieve this goal, while advising the company on acquiring five new properties.
- My duties involve developing master acquisition plans, feasibility reports, and overseeing property openings after refurbishment.
- I also prioritize building cross-functional relationships and conducting regular staff, sales, and accounts meetings.
- As a manager, I am responsible for overseeing a staff of 150 personnel.
- In terms of key accomplishments, I have achieved a 7% increase in sales within the first two months of operations.
- I have also generated monthly cost savings of 12% by renegotiating pricing structures with vendors.
- I have increased profit margins from 41% to 63% through stock control and regular staff training.
- Additionally, I have brought in new business, including 25 new affiliated companies, by garnering positive media reviews on our products and services.
- Furthermore, I have expanded our local client base by developing and implementing special events such as wine-tasting suppers, ladies' nights, beer-tasting events, and men's club evenings.
- Finally, I have secured repeat customers by developing and implementing a new training program for service staff that highlights verbal and nonverbal communication and listening techniques to attract customers.
- Oversaw daily operations across multiple departments, ensuring seamless coordination and efficient execution of tasks.
- Defined, implemented, and revised operational policies and guidelines.
- Oversaw successful implementation of operational strategies and policies to drive organizational growth and productivity.
- Monitored budget and utilized operational resources.
- Developed and executed strategic plans to achieve organizational goals and drive sustainable growth.
- Managed budgets and resources, optimizing allocation for maximum impact on business objectives.
Food and Beverage Manager
The Greenway Hotel & Spa / Cheltenham UK
03.2010 - 06.2012
- As part of my responsibilities, I managed the center's variable costs budget to ensure maximum profitability.
- I evaluated and responded to client requirements, and conducted operational reviews for continuous improvement.
- I acted as a liaison between clients and departments to guarantee consistent fulfillment of guest requirements and expectations.
- All feedback received from trainers or delegates was reported to promote and improve customer satisfaction.
- I allocated daily tasks to the team to ensure the center ran smoothly and efficiently.
- I fostered positive relationships with customers and colleagues to ensure customer satisfaction, and I consistently achieved high service levels.
- I effectively managed and controlled all stocks and assets to minimize the risk of damage or loss.
- Lastly, I attended daily, weekly, and monthly operations meetings as scheduled.
- Revolutionized food presentation techniques resulting in visually appealing dishes that garnered positive reviews from patrons.
- Championed the integration of technology in daily operations, streamlining processes and enhancing overall guest experience.
Assistant Food and Beverage Manager
Four Seasons Hotel and Resorts / Dublin Ireland
02.2008 - 03.2010
- I was responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of restaurants, lounges, banquets, and bars.
- This included overseeing food preparation, food and beverage service, and maintaining operational standards.
- I also hired, trained, and supervised food and beverage staff, conducted departmental meetings, daily briefings, team member performance reviews, and made recommendations accordingly.
- Moreover, I was responsible for monthly inventory, menu selection, updating, analyzing costs and market trends, and reviewing departmental performance and P&L (Profit and Loss) with the Food and Beverage Manager.
- I also actively participated in planning and executing special events in the Ice Bar and restaurants, which resulted in exceeding monthly targets.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by efficiently managing food and beverage operations and providing exceptional service.
- Continuously researched industry trends and competitor offerings to stay ahead of market demands and maintain a competitive edge.
- Managed employee scheduling, ensuring adequate coverage during peak hours while minimizing labor costs where possible.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas of improvement and creating action plans accordingly.
- Implemented cost control measures to effectively manage expenses without compromising quality or customer satisfaction levels.
Senior Manager
Green Hills Hotel / Limerick Ireland
01.2006 - 02.2008
- I managed the high-volume bar of a famous hotel, which hosted various events, such as weddings, fashion shows, funeral lunches, dinners, and more.
- During my shift, I ensured that all event details were executed flawlessly.
- In addition to this, I oversaw all aspects of the Munster Rugby Team's stay, including hosting their annual dinner, room allocation, sales, and staff training.
- Established strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring long-term partnerships and repeat business.
- Implemented and developed operational standards, policies and procedures.
- Held monthly meetings to create business plans and workshops to drive successful business.
- Provided strong leadership to enhance team productivity and morale.
- Consistently met or exceeded annual performance targets set by senior leadership.
- Collaborated closely with peers from other departments to drive organizational success jointly as one cohesive unit.
- Reduced costs, optimized resource allocation, and improved efficiency in managing projects.
- Improved team performance by providing comprehensive training and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Meeting & Events Manager
Radisson SAS Hotel / Limerick Ireland
04.2002 - 12.2005
- The Hotel Banquet Hall, a venue capable of accommodating up to 1,200 guests, has been the site of numerous high-profile events, including mayoral balls and TV3 fashion shows.
- I have successfully orchestrated Christmas parties for renowned companies such as Vodafone, O2, Aer Lingus, and Ryanair.
- Our team consistently handles high-volume business, particularly during lunch hours, when we cater to business meetings.
- As the manager, I oversee a team of seven permanent staff members, and several casual staff members.
- Delivered exceptional customer service to attendees, addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
- Increased client satisfaction by delivering tailored events that met their unique objectives and preferences.
- Skillfully negotiated contracts with venues, saving clients money while maintaining high-quality standards for events spaces.
- Selected and ordered refreshments, decor and event materials.
- Led cross-functional teams in the execution of successful events, fostering collaboration and communication among all stakeholders.
- Managed administrative logistics of events planning, event booking, and event promotions.
- Ensured smooth event transition with thorough pre-event walkthroughs and detailed day-of coordination efforts.
- Created memorable experiences for guests through immersive entertainment options at various events.
- My responsibilities span staffing and training, guest coordination, seating arrangements, billing, and event bookings.
- I directly report to the operation manager and general manager, and have implemented policies that have significantly contributed to profit maximization, such as training staff in time management and waste management.
- My role involves close collaboration with event organizers to meet and exceed guests' expectations, ensuring a memorable experience.
M&E Assistant Manager/ Duty Manager
Clarion Hotel / Dublin
08.2000 - 03.2002
- While working at a hotel, there were 150 bedrooms, two bars, one restaurant, one lounge, and nine meeting rooms.
- I began my career as a Meeting and Events Assistant, but was quickly promoted to Duty Manager, and then to Meeting and Events Manager.
- As manager, I organized breakfast and lunch meetings for high-profile clients, like Bank of Ireland and stockbrokers.
- The hotel was located in the financial district, so these meals were extremely busy.
- Additionally, I was in charge of arranging business and leisure parties in the penthouses of an apartment complex within the hotel.
- Ensuring the safety of all guests and staff was my top priority, and I trained staff members in 'OPERA.'
- In recognition of my excellent work, I was awarded 'Employee of the Year.'
- Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly.
Training Manager
Dromoland Castle Hotel Golf and Country Club / Ireland
01.1997 - 09.2000
- I was chosen from a group of 15 students as part of a national college placement program.
- I worked at a hotel with 150 bedrooms, a golf club, one bar, and one restaurant during my training.
- I was responsible for overseeing all the areas, and I was fortunate enough to be supervised by the world-renowned Chef Meccan, the Head Chef at Dromoland Castle.
- I served prominent individuals, such as Tony O'Reilly, and high-profile celebrities throughout my work.
Education
MBA - Bachelor
Shannon College of Hotel Management
Shannon Ireland 04.2001 - 01.2002
Foundation Certificate - undefined
Health & Safety in the Workplace
10.2013 - 10.2013
Certificate -
Fire Training Course
Primary course - undefined
Principles & Practices in food hygiene
No Degree - People Management: Leadership And Building High P
EHL And Serena Hotel
Dar Es Salam Namibia 04.2001 - 01.2017
Skills
Hospitality management
Quality assurance standards
Team leadership
Strategic revenue optimization
Pre-opening operational planning
Effective communication
Food service management
Operational efficiency management
Client relationship management
Effective team leadership
Project execution
Interests
Cricket
Gym
Swimming
Badminton
Surfing
Reading
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 25 March
- Nationality: IRISH
Certification
High performance culture Training
Timeline
High performance culture Training
02-2025
General Manager
Peshawar Serena Hotel
12.2022 - Current
Hotel Manager/ Corporate Director FnB
Hashoo Group
01.2015 - 12.2022
Foundation Certificate - undefined
Health & Safety in the Workplace
10.2013 - 10.2013
Food and Beverage Manager
Hill Brooke Hotel at The William Cecil Hotel Stamford UK
07.2013 - 12.2014
Director Operations
Carlton Hotel / Pakistan
06.2012 - 07.2013
Food and Beverage Manager
The Greenway Hotel & Spa / Cheltenham UK
03.2010 - 06.2012
Assistant Food and Beverage Manager
Four Seasons Hotel and Resorts / Dublin Ireland
02.2008 - 03.2010
Senior Manager
Green Hills Hotel / Limerick Ireland
01.2006 - 02.2008
Meeting & Events Manager
Radisson SAS Hotel / Limerick Ireland
04.2002 - 12.2005
MBA - Bachelor
Shannon College of Hotel Management
04.2001 - 01.2002
No Degree - People Management: Leadership And Building High P
EHL And Serena Hotel
04.2001 - 01.2017
M&E Assistant Manager/ Duty Manager
Clarion Hotel / Dublin
08.2000 - 03.2002
Training Manager
Dromoland Castle Hotel Golf and Country Club / Ireland
01.1997 - 09.2000
Primary course - undefined
Principles & Practices in food hygiene
Certificate -
Fire Training Course
Similar Profiles
Irfan UllahIrfan Ullah
Telephone operator at Media One HotelTelephone operator at Media One Hotel
VICTORIA KATHEO KILOIVICTORIA KATHEO KILOI
Demi Chef at Nairobi Serena HotelDemi Chef at Nairobi Serena Hotel
Ruth SpiraRuth Spira
Laundry Attendant at Amboseli Serena HotelLaundry Attendant at Amboseli Serena Hotel
ABDUL HALEEMABDUL HALEEM
Site Engineer at Khyber ittefaq Construction Co.Site Engineer at Khyber ittefaq Construction Co.
Ihsan Ullah Khan Ihsan Ullah Khan null
District Children Specialist at Government MRHSM Hospital PabbiDistrict Children Specialist at Government MRHSM Hospital Pabbi