Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Jumeirah Beach Residence has welcomed two key members to its team.

Rusindu Rodrigo has been named the new chef de cuisine and Channa Rodrigo has been appointed as the property’s assistant food and beverage (F&B) manager.

A Sri Lankan national, Rusindu has 15 years of experience in the F&B industry, having previously worked for The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, and Jebel Ali Golf Resort.

In his new role, Rusindu is in-charge of the kitchen operation of the property’s two outlets – Flavours, an all-day dining restaurant, and Pan Asia Restaurant, as well as the in-room dining service. He will ensure that high standards of preparation, hygiene and safety are being followed in the kitchen and is also tasked to develop the hotel menu, and contribute ideas and strategies to the food and beverage team.

Prior to this, he was the sous chef of Ramada Downtown Dubai and also briefly took on the role as kitchen-in-charge during the pre-opening of ibis Styles Jumeira.

Channa, who joins as the assistant F&B manager, will be working closely with the sales and marketing department in coming up with year-round promotions and activities with the aim of increasing revenue and profitability. He will head the department in ensuring that guests will be provided with high quality of food and service. He is also responsible for generating feedback and monitoring new F&B trends to improve the customer dining experience.

Before joining the hotel, Channa was the operations manager of Mint Leaf of London, Dubai. He also worked as F&B manager of Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa, and Carlton Tower Hotel Dubai. He has 20 years of experience in the F&B industry, and has been affiliated with notable hospitality establishments including Burj Al Arab, Madinat Jumeirah, and The Address Dubai Marina. – TradeArabia News Service