Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) announces the promotion of Mohamed Solah to Chief Executive Officer. With Solah’s journey from an entry-level role to leading one of the most esteemed resort portfolios in the Maldives, CCR recognizes his resilience reaffirming its commitment to nurturing Maldivian talent. With over two decades of experience and an exceptional record of local and international markets, Solah is bound to inspire, innovate and drive excellence.
Career Growth & Dedication
Solah’s career started with foundational roles. He steadily rose through the ranks of hospitality operations, taking on the roles of Front Office Manager and executive Housekeeper. His experience across multiple departments and in-depth understanding of CCR’s Vision, Mission, and Co-values, his international exposure as one of the first Maldivian hotel General Managers abroad, and his cross-cultural expertise set him apart as the leader of a broad hospitality perspective.
During his leadership and managing Komandoo Maldives, Solah achieved exceptional results, elevating the resort to new heights, including Komandoo’s Tripadvisor’s “Best of the Best” award, a distinction given to only the top 1% of hotels globally. Guest satisfaction ratings also soared from an 8 to an impressive 9.6 out of 10. Komandoo’s status as the “Luxury Lifestyle Award” winner for the best beach resort in the Maldives is a testament to his commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on his journey, Solah credits his success to hard work, skill development, and CCR’s trust. He remarks, “This milestone proves that with dedication, skill, and support, anyone can reach new heights in their career; CCR’s commitment to developing local talent has been instrumental to my growth, and I am honoured to lead a company dedicated to fostering the success of young Maldivians in hospitality.”
Education & International Experience
Solah holds a Bachelor of Honors from Taylor’s University in Malaysia and an Executive MBA from the University of Bedfordshire. He further sharpened his skills with the General Managers Program at Cornell University, connecting him with industry leaders worldwide. With additional studies in hospitality management, French language and culture, and hands-on experience in world-class properties such as Zaya Nurai Island in Abu Dhabi, Hilton Seychelles, and Sheraton Langkawi, Solah brings a wealth of knowledge to CCR. His international roles, including Cluster General Manager for Zaya Hospitality, where he pre-opened luxury city hotels, further strengthened his cross-cultural management abilities.
Drive for Innovation & Sustainability
In his new role as CEO, Solah will focus on major projects, including the highly anticipated reopening of Veligandu Maldives Resort Island and the extensive renovation of Innahura Maldives Resort. These ventures underscore CCR’s dedication to elevating the guest experience and upholding its reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.
Solah’s leadership style is rooted in operational expertise and streamlined processes. He emphasizes on inter-departmental collaboration and sustainable practices to advance CCR’s legacy of world-class services. His approach fosters a culture of innovation that benefits both guests and employees, ensuring CCR remains at the forefront of the industry.
A Vision for Future Leaders
Solah is committed to empowering the next generation of Maldivian hospitality professionals, continuing the CCR tradition of career progression and talent development. “Crown & Champa Resorts is not just a company; it’s a community founded on Maldivian values and a dedication to quality,” he remarked. “I am excited to lead CCR through these dynamic times, with a focus on sustainable guest experiences, enhanced resort management, and a commitment to preserving our natural environment.”
With a portfolio of ten resorts and a Male’ city hotel, CCR caters to travellers of all preferences, from family-friendly holidays to ultra-luxury escapes. The blend of Maldivian values with a global service approach has created a legacy celebrated globally. Solah’s remarkable journey reflects CCR’s co-values and is an inspiration to young Maldivians in the hospitality and tourism sector. His promotion highlights CCR’s unwavering dedication to fostering talent and career growth within the industry standards.
About Crown & Champa Resorts
Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) is a leading resort collection in the Maldives. It caters to holidaymakers’ every expectation and connects travellers with a passion for a life fully lived to the best of this tranquil destination. CCR offers world-class hospitality and thoughtful, attentive services for an authentic Maldivian experience.
The diverse collection of properties includes nine resort islands: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Island Resort, Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa, Jawakara Islands Maldives, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, Innahura Maldives Resort, and the city hotel, Champa Central Hotel.
