Imad Akil’s journey in the hospitality industry is a story of passion, resilience, and commitment to people. Starting at just 15 years old, his early fascination with hotels grew into a lifelong career dedicated to creating welcoming experiences and nurturing talent.
A Spark Ignited in Youth
Imad Akil’s love for hospitality began with simple childhood observations. He was always drawn to the elegance of hotel lobbies, the polished marble floors, and the refined uniforms of the staff. These early impressions stirred a curiosity about what made hotels more than just places to sleep.
Growing up in a large family with a home full of guests, Imad Akil experienced firsthand the power of hospitality. He remembers that when visitors left, the house felt empty, and he realized he thrived in lively, welcoming environments. This early awareness shaped his dream to create spaces where guests feel valued and at home.
The Heart of Hospitality: Attention to Detail
For Imad Akil, hospitality is about more than services. It is about emotions and connections. He believes every detail matters, from the presentation of a menu to the comfort of a room, to every warm interaction between staff and guests.
He explains that these moments of care and attention turn an ordinary stay into a memorable experience. This focus on personalization and kindness has remained central throughout his career.
Climbing the Ladder: From Operator to General Manager
Imad Akil started his career humbly in 2000 as a telephone operator in a hotel. This entry-level role was crucial in developing his communication skills and understanding customer needs.
With hard work and continuous learning, Imad Akil steadily progressed. By 2017, he earned his first General Manager role at Rotana, a respected hospitality company.
He says the transition was exciting but also challenging. There was pressure to have all the answers, and sometimes he doubted himself. But he soon realized leadership is not about knowing everything. It is about building and supporting your team.
Building Future Leaders and Promoting Inclusivity
One of Imad Akil’s greatest achievements has been mentoring junior staff who have since become leaders themselves. He says seeing them grow gives him more pride than any business success. For him, hospitality is a people business, and nurturing talent is the best legacy.
Imad Akil is also a passionate advocate for inclusivity. While managing a hotel in Amman, he launched a project to employ people with Down syndrome, successfully integrating five employees into the workforce. He explains that this was about more than jobs. It was about showing that everyone deserves opportunities and that diversity strengthens teams.
Leading Towers Rotana: A Vision for Change
Now at the helm of Towers Rotana, Imad Akil is driving transformation. He wants to create a team that sees challenges as chances to innovate. In an industry often slow to evolve, Imad Akil is pushing for a shift toward creativity and collaboration.
He explains that the team is moving from focusing only on costs to exploring new opportunities for growth. By fostering an open and energetic environment, Imad Akil encourages his team to rethink what success looks like.
His goal is to leave a positive impact on both guests and staff by challenging outdated traditions and promoting continuous improvement.
Understanding the Guest Experience
A key lesson Imad Akil has learned is that every guest arrives with their own story and expectations.
He explains that guests want more than just a room. They want to feel seen, cared for, and valued. This belief is reflected in the brand promise of “treasured time” at Rotana Hotels, emphasizing the value of time and making every moment count.
Small gestures, like a sincere greeting or a personalized recommendation, can turn an ordinary visit into a lasting memory. For Imad Akil, hospitality is about being part of those joyful moments.
Overcoming Challenges on the Way
Imad Akil’s career has not been without obstacles. The pressures of leadership and the weight of responsibility often tested his confidence.
He admits that sometimes it felt lonely, especially when expected to have all the answers. But he learned that success comes from teamwork and supporting each other.
He also faced resistance to change within the industry but remained committed to innovation and inclusivity, showing that progress is possible when you believe in your vision.
A Vision for the Future
Imad Akil’s vision for hospitality is one where creativity, inclusivity, and personal growth are at the core.
He wants to be remembered as someone who challenged the old ways and inspired new thinking. Removing bureaucracy and encouraging continuous learning and collaboration are his key goals.
He believes the future of hospitality lies in valuing every person, both guests and staff, and creating environments where everyone can thrive and contribute.
Lessons from Imad Akil’s Career
For anyone aspiring to succeed in hospitality, Imad Akil’s story offers clear guidance.
He encourages people to follow their passion, explaining that early curiosity can grow into a lifelong career if you stay dedicated.
He stresses the importance of investing in people because success is about nurturing talent and fostering inclusivity.
He also advises embracing innovation and not being afraid to challenge traditions and try new ideas.
Personalizing experiences matters because every guest deserves to feel special and cared for.
Finally, he believes true leadership supports and empowers the team.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy in Hospitality
Imad Akil’s career is a powerful example of how passion, hard work, and a people-first approach can transform lives. From a curious teenager admiring hotel lobbies to a respected General Manager leading one of the region’s top hotels, Imad Akil’s journey continues to inspire.
His commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and guest experience is shaping the future of hospitality at Towers Rotana and beyond. With his vision and leadership, Imad Akil is not just managing a hotel. He is building a community dedicated to creating treasured moments for everyone.
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