Appointments NewsJuly 12, 2025

Sanjeeva Perera Appointed as Area General Manager for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has named Sanjeeva Perera as the new Area General Manager for its Maldives resorts, ushering in a fresh era of leadership for the renowned hospitality brand. With over 25 years of experience in resort management across Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Perera brings a wealth of expertise and a vision to elevate guest experiences while preserving the unique character of each property. In an exclusive conversation, he shared insights into his approach to leadership, sustainability, and creating unforgettable guest experiences.

For Perera, assuming the role of Area General Manager is both an honor and a responsibility. “Hospitality is not just about service; it’s about storytelling,” he remarked, reflecting on his extensive career. He views this position as an opportunity to craft meaningful narratives for guests and staff alike, aligning every aspect of the resorts with Cinnamon’s commitment to inspired living and purposeful travel. His leadership is poised to blend clarity and compassion, ensuring that each interaction reflects the brand’s ethos.

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Perera now oversees four distinct resorts, each with its own identity and appeal. He relishes the challenge of harmonizing this diversity while preserving what makes each property unique. “It’s about creating a sense of belonging at each resort, ensuring every guest finds their version of paradise,” he explained. From diving logistics to wellness programs and culinary innovation, Perera thrives on the dynamic demands of managing such a varied portfolio, tailoring experiences to meet diverse guest expectations.

Drawing on his extensive leadership experience, Perera plans to enhance guest satisfaction and operational excellence through a dual focus on consistency and personalization. He emphasizes data-driven service improvements, leveraging guest feedback and behavioral insights to refine offerings in real time. Equally important is empowering staff through cross-training, recognizing cultural intelligence, and fostering idea-sharing across properties. “When our teams feel valued and heard, our guests inevitably feel the difference,” he noted, underscoring the link between employee empowerment and exceptional guest experiences.

The Maldives remains a coveted destination, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts stands out by blending luxury with sincerity and authenticity. Perera highlighted the brand’s Sri Lankan hospitality roots, which infuse its offerings with emotional warmth and cultural depth. “We’re not offering a cookie-cutter version of paradise,” he said. By partnering with local communities and curating experiences that resonate deeply, Cinnamon ensures guests feel not just pampered but truly understood.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Cinnamon’s operations in the Maldives, and Perera is dedicated to advancing these efforts. The resorts have already implemented initiatives like organic farming for fresh produce, reducing single-use plastics, and repurposing items—such as transforming broken umbrellas into bags. Perera plans to deepen guest engagement in these initiatives, fostering awareness of the Maldives’ fragile ecosystem through educational touchpoints and simple, actionable steps. “Sustainability isn’t just part of our operations; it’s a defining principle of how we grow,” he affirmed.

Perera extended a heartfelt invitation to returning guests, partners, and new travelers. “Whether you’re seeking marine adventures, a romantic escape, or a moment of stillness, there’s a Cinnamon island that feels made for you,” he said. He encouraged returning guests to rediscover their favorite experiences and invited new visitors to explore the warmth, creativity, and care that define Cinnamon’s hospitality. Each resort promises not just a stay, but a meaningful story to carry forward.

As Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence in the Maldives, Perera’s leadership signals a commitment to thoughtful hospitality, innovation, and sustainable impact. His vision is clear: to create experiences that resonate deeply, foster a sense of belonging, and preserve the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.