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Exclusive: Qaisar Naseem, General Manager at Paradise Island Resort

Qaisar Naseem, group general manager at villa hotels
We caught up with Qaisar Naseem to find out how Paradise Island Resort adjusted to the new normal to deliver seamless service to guests.

Villa Hotels & Resorts is known for its exquisite collection of resorts. The high standards of service and experience holidaymakers find at the property is possible due to the hardworking team behind the company. Villa Resorts’ property, Paradise Island Resort General Manager, Qaisar Naseem oversees every aspect of operations at the resort. Furthermore, Qaisar ensures that Villa Hotels uphold its standards and deliver quality service.

MVHOTELS.Travel caught up with Qaisar Naseem to find out how Villa Hotels & Resorts and Paradise Island Resort has adjusted to the new normal and continue to seamlessly deliver service to holidaymakers.

1. Could you briefly tell us about the new offerings at the resort with the reopening?

Qaisar: With the situation we all faced, we planned to keep our staff active and engaged. We have utilized all the resources available here at the resort. Likewise, at Paradise Island Resort, we introduced two new room categories and a fantastic kids club.

We are also doing a lot of other renovations at the moment which includes one of the biggest swimming pools in the Maldives. And In regards to the safety of our resorts post-resort reopening, we’re following HPA guidelines, the SOP’s imposed by the Tourism Ministry of Maldives, and our own in-house SOP’s to ensure our guests’ safety and comfort throughout their stay with us.

2. What’s your opinion on how to provide quality customer service?

Qaisar: It’s very simple. There are two things we need to focus on; guests and staff. We have to understand the needs of our guests and cater accordingly. Moreover, we also have to understand our staff. Their feelings; and treat them like a family. Because they are our family. A happy staff will make customers happy.

3. What is it like to be a part of Villa Hotels?

Qaisar: I am very proud to be a part of this team. This is a platform that gives opportunities for locals to uplift themselves and thrive. I have friends and colleagues, who today are in very higher positions; in the government and as well as in other hotels throughout this industry.

4. Tell us about the safety practices at the resort in terms of guests’ arrival and experience.

Qaisar: When our guests arrive in the Maldives, they are brought to the resort directly in a speed boat from Velana International Airport. So in terms of transportation, it is very safe. Our resorts are geographically isolated. Thus, making the Maldives really safe. Furthermore, our villas here at paradise Island resort are distanced and we organize experiences and other activities for our guests in a way that maintains social distancing, focusing on guest healthcare and wellbeing.

5. What do you think is the most important quality to uphold as a team leader?

Qaisar: In order to be successful in this industry the most important quality that we need is punctuality and be humble. Because that’s what defines hospitality.

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Latest

Heidi Grimwood Takes the Helm at ELE|NA as Senior Vice President

Heidi Grimwood

Heidi Grimwood has stepped into a new leadership role as Senior Vice President of ELE|NA, the flagship wellness brand under Atmosphere Wellness Pvt Ltd. The move marks a key chapter in both her career and the brand’s growth journey.

Grimwood has shaped ELE|NA since 2020, when she joined as Assistant Vice President. Since then, she has redefined wellness across the Maldives, helping turn ELE|NA into a standout name known for its forward-thinking approach and growing global reach.

Expanding ELE|NA’s Global Footprint

Now, her promotion signals the brand’s intention to broaden its footprint beyond the Maldives, with planned expansion into South Asia and the Middle East. In this new chapter, Grimwood will lead the development of wellness sanctuaries in new regions, grow the brand’s wellness amenities and essentials business, and launch the ELE|NA Wellness Academy—a platform designed to train and inspire future leaders in the field.

Heidi Grimwood says that ELE|NA’s growth reflects their belief that wellness should be accessible, experiential, and deeply personal. She adds:

“As we expand into South Asia and the Middle East—while deepening our roots in the Maldives—we’re not just creating spaces, but cultivating a movement. With new sanctuaries, an evolving product line, and our Wellness Academy, we’re proud to be shaping the future of holistic well-being in a way that’s sustainable, soulful, and globally resonant.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

Over the years, Grimwood has combined strategy and soul to guide the brand. She has introduced experiences that blend wellbeing with fine dining and built a cohesive identity across the resorts that carry ELE|NA’s name.

Grimwood brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the role. She began her wellness career at 19 and went on to lead global initiatives. For instance, she co-directed FG Innovation Management in Ireland, where she introduced Virgin Atlantic Airways’ first in-house gym. In addition, she managed spa operations at world-class properties including One&Only Reethi Rah, the QE2 Oceanliner, Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, and Inchydoney Lodge & Spa.

Furthermore, Grimwood has earned recognition as an internationally respected speaker and advocate for sustainability and innovation in wellness. Her accomplishments have brought in several accolades, such as Global Spa Leader of the Year (World Spa & Wellness Awards, 2022) and Wellness Personality of the Year (Hotelier Maldives Awards, 2024).

Her appointment signals more than a title change—it reflects ELE|NA’s commitment to shaping global wellness through thoughtful, experience-led growth.

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