hotel managers conference AFRICA
EKO 2024
Theme: "Innovative Strategies: Nurturing Resilience and Excellence in Guest Experience in African Hospitality"
The theme "Innovative Strategies: Nurturing Resilience and Excellence in Guest Experience in African Hospitality" holds immense importance within the industry. Africa's hospitality sector faces a myriad of challenges, from infrastructural limitations to economic fluctuations, making resilience a vital trait for its survival and growth. By nurturing resilience, the industry can adapt to adversities and maintain its sustainability, while simultaneously elevating guest experiences to new heights. Exceptional guest experiences are essential for attracting and retaining clientele in a competitive global market. Through innovative strategies, African hospitality establishments can deliver personalized and memorable experiences that showcase the continent's rich culture, heritage, and traditions, setting them apart on the world stage. From harnessing cutting-edge technologies to cultivating a resilient mindset, attendees will explore how innovation becomes the catalyst for elevating guest experiences to unprecedented levels. Through real-world case studies and interactive discussions, participants will gain actionable insights to navigate challenges, adapt to ever-changing guest expectations, and emerge as trailblazers in the pursuit of service excellence within the hospitality industry. Join us as we delve into the forefront of innovation, cultivating an environment where resilience and excellence converge to shape the future of guest experiences.
OBJECTIVES
01. Introducing the latest hospitality technologies,
enabling attendees to integrate innovations for
superior guest experiences.
02. Foster organizational resilience, equipping
participants with strategies to navigate challenges
while maintaining commitment to exceptional
guest experiences.
03. To illuminate innovation's role in tailoring guest
experiences, facilitating personalized service
strategies for diverse guest preferences.
04. Create a collaborative environment for hospitality
professionals to engage in interactive sessions,
share best practices, and foster a community
committed to innovation and service excellence.
Keynote Speaker 1
Bayo Adedeji
Group Chief Executive
Officer Wakanow
Growth Hacker |
Turnaround Expert | Product
Innovator | Finance Leader
and Profitability Driver
In this engaging presentation, we will explore the
transformative power of resilient and excellent guest
experiences. Dive into the core principles of resilience and
excellence, shedding light on their pivotal roles in
surpassing guest expectations.
Through illuminating case studies, we anticipate that the
presentation will showcase innovative strategies that have
successfully transformed guest interactions. The Speaker’s
expertise will guide our audience in navigating the evolving
landscape of guest expectations while maintaining an
unwavering focus on excellence.
We look forward to a compelling call to action that
empowers our audience to foster a culture of resilience and
excellence, elevating their guest interactions to
unprecedented heights
Keynote Speaker 2
TOPIC: “Tech-Driven Hospitality: A Gateway to Excellence"
Karl Hala
Group General Manager
Continent Hotels
Business Development | Tourism &
Hotel Management
The presentation will delve into the transformative role of technology
in reshaping the landscape of hospitality, particularly within the
African context. exploring the myriad ways in which cutting-edge
technology can serve as a catalyst for achieving new heights of
guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and overall excellence.
Drawing on real-world examples and industry insights, the speaker
will guide the audience through the integration of innovative
solutions, such as tech-driven personalisation, smart room
technologies, and digital guest engagement platforms.
Covering insights like the impact of technology on guest interactions,
operational optimization, and the overall resilience of hospitality
businesses, the presentation will inspire attendees to embrace and
adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape, illustrating
how a tech-driven approach can elevate the standard of hospitality
services while positioning establishments for long-term success.
Get ready for an engaging exploration of how technology can truly
be a gateway to excellence for the hospitality industry.
TOPIC: “Tech-Driven Hospitality: A Gateway to Excellence"
Olufemi Falebita MIH
Regional Chairman
Institute of Hospitality UK, Nigeria
Operations | Turnaround | Change
Management | Branding
The presentation will delve into the intricacies of crafting
memorable guest experiences and achieving service
excellence.
It will explore the evolving landscape of guest
expectations, emphasising the dynamic interplay
between exceptional service and the overall guest
journey. Sharing insights on fostering a culture of service
excellence within organizations, empowering the
audience with practical strategies to elevate their
service delivery.
This unique perspective and engaging presentation will
undoubtedly resonate with our diverse audience,
composed of professionals eager to enhance guest
interactions within the tourism and hospitality industry.
We look forward to an illuminating discourse that not
only highlights the importance of guest experience and
service excellence but also provides actionable
takeaways for our attendees.
TOPIC: Liability Issues in Hospitality: Mitigating Risks and Ensuring Guest Safety
Chief (Barr.) Sam Alabi
Company Secretary/Legal Adviser,
Eko Hotels limited
Lagos
Hospitality businesses face a range of liability risks, from
guest injuries on premises to foodborne illnesses and
property damage. This topic examines the legal
responsibilities and liabilities of hospitality
establishments in ensuring guest safety and minimizing
risks of litigation.
The discussion will include premises liability laws, duty of
care obligations, and insurance coverage considerations.
The speaker will share case studies and real-world
examples highlighting common liability issues and best
practices for risk management.
Attendees will gain practical insights into implementing
proactive measures to mitigate liability risks, protect
guests and employees, and uphold the reputation and
integrity of their hospitality businesses.
LYDIA AKUNJA | LECTURER, DEPT. OF HOTEL & HOSPITALITY MGT. MOI UNIVERSITY, KENYA
TOPIC: RESILIENCE IN HOSPITALITY
In a dynamic exploration, the speaker will delve into the unique challenges faced by the hospitality sector and present strategic insights on building resilience to navigate uncertainties. Drawing from real-world examples and industry best practices, the presentation will empower the audience with actionable strategies to enhance organizational adaptability, fortify guest experiences, and thrive in the face of disruptions. It should be an inspiring session that transcends challenges, offering a roadmap for resilient practices that redefine the industry.
EKENE NNABUIHE | EXPERT PAN AFRICAN HOTELIER
TOPIC: SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES FOR AFRICAN HOTELS
With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that African hotels face, the speaker will unravel the intricacies of implementing sustainable practices. From ecofriendly operations to community engagements, the presentation will provide actionable insights and real-world case studies, empowering hotels to weave sustainability seamlessly into their fabric. It should be an enlightening session that not only explores the environmental and social dimensions of sustainability but also charts a course for hotels to become trailblazers in responsible and resilient hospitality practices across the African continent.
DR. MICHAEL PINDER | GENERAL MANAGER, JS SIGNATURE HOTEL, PORT HARCOURT
TOPIC: EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT & TRAINING
This illuminating presentation will delve into the core principles of fostering a motivated and skilled workforce. The speaker will share insights on creating dynamic training programs that not only enhance employee skills but also drive engagement and satisfaction. With a focus on practical strategies and innovative approaches, the session aims to empower organizations to cultivate a culture of continuous learning, ensuring that employees are not just assets but enthusiastic contributors to the company's growth. Join us for an inspiring discourse that promises to redefine the way we approach employee engagement and training for sustained success.
Discussion overview of points raised during keynote, lead speaker presentation, and other speakers’ presentations. Q&A
Dr. Ekwunife Ifeanyi
Director of Operations,
Goldenhut Hospitality Solutions Ltd.
Nigeria
Enock Makanga
Managing Director
Impact Chefs & Hospitality
Academy Ltd.
Kenya
Dr. Eric Mekwuye
CEO,
Hospitality Business School,
Lagos, Nigeria
Funke Olusoga-Ogunlade | MODERATOR
Hospitality & CX Expert
Founder,
The FunkeO Company
Lagos, Nigeria
Topic: Adopting Global Standards: Enhancing Quality and Competitiveness in Nigeria's Hospitality Sector.
Topic: Adopting Global Standards: Enhancing Quality and Competitiveness in Nigeria's Hospitality Sector.
Danny Kioupouroglou
General Manager
Eko Hotels
Lagos, Nigeria
Michael Williams
General Manager,
EbonyLife Place
Lagos, Nigeria
Ahmed Raza
General Manager,
Radisson Blu
Lagos, Nigeria
