Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has announced the appointment of Elizabeth (“Liz”) Smailes as Director of Marketing, following her assumption of the role in December 2025.
Well acquainted with the Maldives, Ms Smailes has previously held senior marketing leadership positions with Minor Hotels and played a key role in the opening of what is now known as The Standard, Maldives. Her professional background also includes notable commercial and brand achievements at Broughton Sanctuary in the United Kingdom, strategic consultancy work for tourism authorities and private-sector clients, and the co-founding of an award-winning hospitality venture recognised for excellence in guest experience and market positioning.
Ms Smailes brings extensive international experience across global hospitality, luxury tourism, brand development, and strategic marketing communications. Her career spans Europe, the Maldives, Thailand, Myanmar, and the United Kingdom, with a proven track record of building strong brands, driving commercial performance, and delivering high-impact, integrated marketing strategies.
In her role at Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, she will lead all marketing, communications, and media strategies for the resort, with a strong focus on enhancing brand reputation and maximising return on marketing investment. Her responsibilities include overseeing the resort’s marketing, communications, and public relations strategy, as well as driving integrated campaigns in close collaboration with the Revenue, Sales, and Food & Beverage teams. She will also work closely with Park Hotel Group’s Corporate Marketing & Communications team to ensure consistent messaging and to spearhead creative storytelling across global markets.
Commenting on the appointment, Raffaele Solferino, General Manager of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, said:
“Liz brings a rare combination of strategic clarity, creative vision, and hands-on execution. Her global perspective, deep understanding of luxury hospitality, and collaborative leadership style will be instrumental as we strengthen our market presence and enter our next phase of growth.”
Ms Smailes commented on her appointment:
“I am delighted to be returning to the Maldives – a destination where hospitality excels in a truly unique and globally renowned way. While much of what makes the Maldives special remains unchanged, the profile of travellers, the timing of their visits, and their motivations have evolved significantly, as have expectations around how the destination is experienced. As a member of the senior leadership team at Grand Park Kodhipparu, finding more meaningful ways to genuinely connect with guests is a priority, ensuring the guest journey authentically reflects both the brand and the island’s distinctive ethos.”
Recognised for her collaborative approach, strong communication skills, and ability to translate strategy into measurable results, Ms Smailes is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Grand Park Kodhipparu’s reputation, driving commercial success, and delivering meaningful brand engagement across both traditional and digital channels.
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