With a career driven by passion and an unwavering commitment to redefining guest experiences, Cenk Ünverdi, Chief Operating Officer at Rixos Hotels, has carved a remarkable path in the hospitality industry. From his early days embracing the art of service to leading one of the world’s premier luxury hotel brands, Ünverdi blends innovation, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for Turkish heritage to create transformative experiences. In this exclusive interview, he shares his journey, insights into Rixos Hotels’ philosophy, and the brand’s ambitious plans for the future.
Can you share a bit about your journey in the hospitality industry and what led you to Rixos Hotels?
My journey in the hospitality industry began with a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and an appreciation for the art of hospitality. From my earliest days in the industry, I was drawn to environments where service excellence and innovation went hand in hand. Over the years, I honed my skills across various leadership roles, embracing challenges that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally.
Joining Rixos Hotels was a natural progression. The brand’s ethos of luxury, immersive experiences, and authentic Turkish hospitality resonated deeply with me. What sets Rixos apart is its commitment to going beyond conventional hospitality, creating not just stays but memories that guests cherish for a lifetime.
I saw an opportunity to contribute to a brand that is bold, dynamic, and constantly evolving. The vision of Rixos Hotels aligns with my belief in the transformative power of hospitality, where every detail matters, and innovation drives success. Today, as COO, I am privileged to lead a team that shares this vision, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for the industry.
What drives your passion for hospitality?
Hospitality, at its core, is about creating connections and crafting moments that resonate far beyond the walls of a hotel. What drives my passion is the ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary—to take something as simple as a stay or a meal and turn it into an unforgettable experience that touches people’s lives.
I am inspired by the stories our guests share, the joy we bring to their special moments, and the opportunity to celebrate cultures and traditions through our unique offerings. Hospitality is an industry that demands creativity, resilience, and empathy—qualities that push me to innovate and grow every single day.
At Rixos Hotels, I’m especially passionate about how we blend luxury with heartfelt service, creating immersive experiences that reflect the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Seeing our vision come to life—whether through a world-class event or a family’s perfect holiday—fuels my dedication. It’s not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them in ways that leave a lasting impact.
Ultimately, hospitality isn’t just a career for me—it’s a calling. It’s about the people, the stories, and the potential to inspire and uplift, one guest at a time.
What is your day-to-day role as Chief Operating Officer, and how do you balance overseeing multiple properties while maintaining their individuality?
As Chief Operating Officer at Rixos Hotels, my role revolves around ensuring that each property aligns with our brand’s core values while driving operational excellence across the board. My day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing the performance of our hotels, implementing strategic initiatives, ensuring our service standards are consistently met, and collaborating with the leadership teams of each property to maintain their unique identity and culture.
Balancing multiple properties is a challenge, but it’s one that I embrace with a clear vision and effective delegation. Each hotel has its own story to tell, influenced by its location, guests, and local culture, and it’s essential to preserve that individuality. This means that, while we maintain the Rixos standard of luxury, each hotel operates with its own flair—from the bespoke experiences we offer to the local partnerships we build.
To ensure consistency across all properties while honouring their individuality, we focus on a few key areas: clear communication, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of local markets. It’s about empowering our property teams to make decisions that best serve their guests while aligning with the overarching goals of Rixos Hotels.
My role is to provide guidance and support, ensuring that we continue to innovate and lead in the luxury hospitality space. At the same time, I champion the individuality of each property, allowing them to stand out while contributing to the overall success of the brand. This balance is what makes Rixos Hotels unique, and it’s something I’m deeply committed to preserving.
Rixos Hotels is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury concept. How does the brand differentiate itself in such a competitive market?
Rixos Hotels stands out in the competitive landscape of luxury hospitality because we don’t just offer an all-inclusive experience; we redefine what all-inclusive truly means. Our approach goes beyond the traditional concept of all-inclusive by blending luxury with authenticity, innovation, and exceptional service at every touchpoint.
What differentiates us is our commitment to creating immersive, transformative experiences that cater to the individual needs and desires of our guests. From world-class dining options crafted by expert chefs to bespoke wellness programmes, entertainment, and curated local experiences, we offer a holistic, all-encompassing luxury experience that is second to none.
We’ve also placed a strong emphasis on creating a seamless fusion of modern luxury with local culture. Our guests not only enjoy the high-end comforts expected from a Rixos hotel, but they also get a deep sense of place through our architectural design, culinary offerings, and curated activities. This balance of international sophistication and local authenticity is what sets us apart.
Furthermore, we never lose sight of personalisation. Each guest is treated as an individual, and their preferences and desires are anticipated and met with meticulous attention to detail. Our staff, trained to embody the very spirit of Turkish hospitality, consistently deliver the highest standards of service, making each stay feel truly special.
In a market crowded with options, Rixos Hotels stands tall because we consistently deliver exceptional value, authenticity, and service—an all-inclusive experience that truly enriches lives.
Can you elaborate on Rixos Hotels’ philosophy of combining Turkish hospitality with world-class luxury experiences?
At Rixos Hotels, we believe that the foundation of world-class luxury is built upon the rich, time-honoured traditions of Turkish hospitality. It’s this unique blend of cultural warmth, authenticity, and attention to detail that sets us apart in the luxury hospitality industry.
Turkish hospitality is rooted in the concept of misafirperverlik, which translates to “treating guests as family.” This philosophy permeates every aspect of our operations, from the warm welcome guests receive upon arrival to the genuine care and attention they experience throughout their stay. It’s about creating an atmosphere where guests feel not just valued but deeply respected—where every interaction feels personal and heartfelt.
Coupled with this cultural foundation is our unwavering commitment to providing world-class luxury experiences. At Rixos, we blend cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art amenities, and exceptional service to ensure that our guests are treated to the highest standards of comfort and convenience. From luxurious accommodations and world-class spas to Michelin-starred dining and curated experiences, we create environments where guests feel pampered and indulged, without sacrificing the authenticity and warmth that is inherent to Turkish hospitality.
This philosophy allows us to deliver a unique form of luxury—one that goes beyond opulence and indulges the senses in a way that is both immersive and meaningful. Whether it’s through the rich flavours of Turkish cuisine, the serene atmosphere of our spas, or the attention to detail in every corner of our hotels, we aim to provide an experience that is both luxurious and deeply connected to the heart of Turkey.
At Rixos, we don’t just offer a place to stay; we offer a journey—a chance to immerse oneself in a culture of warmth and hospitality, all while enjoying world-class luxury. This seamless integration of Turkish heritage with modern luxury is what defines the Rixos experience and sets us apart in the global market.
What are some of the standout features or services that you believe set Rixos Hotels apart from other luxury all-inclusive brands?
Rixos Hotels distinguishes itself in the competitive luxury all-inclusive market through several unique features and services that go beyond expectations, creating unforgettable experiences.
Immersive Experiences: At Rixos, we believe luxury is not just about premium accommodations and dining; it’s about creating meaningful, immersive experiences. From curated cultural programmes to bespoke wellness offerings, we aim to connect our guests with local culture, traditions, and natural beauty. Whether it’s through a private yacht cruise, a traditional Turkish bath experience, or a wine-tasting dinner in a stunning location, each activity is designed to offer a memorable and authentic touch.
World-Class Dining: Food is at the heart of Turkish hospitality, and we bring that essence to every meal. Our all-inclusive dining experience is a true culinary journey, featuring a wide array of cuisines from around the world, with a special emphasis on Turkish flavours and international gourmet options. Our chefs are experts in their field, offering Michelin-star-quality dishes prepared with the finest ingredients, making every meal a celebration of flavour.
Luxury Spa and Wellness: We understand that true luxury involves well-being, which is why our signature Anjana Spa concept is a central part of the Rixos experience. Our wellness programmes are tailored to rejuvenate both the body and mind, offering everything from traditional Turkish hammams to modern fitness retreats, holistic treatments, and mindfulness programmes. This balance of relaxation and vitality ensures guests leave feeling revitalised in every sense.
All-Inclusive Beyond the Basics: We go far beyond standard all-inclusive offerings. At Rixos, guests enjoy limitless access to gourmet dining, premium beverages, world-class entertainment, and VIP experiences—all included in the package. From private butlers to tailored services and exclusive access to events and excursions, we provide an elevated experience that truly defines luxury.
Unrivalled Service: Our approach to service is rooted in the concept of Turkish hospitality, where we treat every guest as part of the Rixos family. This personalised level of care is evident in the attention to detail across all our properties. Whether it’s through anticipating guests’ needs or offering bespoke services tailored to individual preferences, our staff ensures that every moment of the stay is exceptional.
Exclusive Kids and Family Programmes: Rixos is also known for its family-friendly services, particularly through our Rixy Kids Club. We offer a safe and exciting environment for children, with a wide variety of activities designed to engage, entertain, and educate. This makes Rixos the ideal destination for family holidays, where both parents and children can enjoy their time to the fullest.
In summary, what sets Rixos apart is our ability to offer a seamless combination of luxury, authenticity, and personalised service. Our guests experience the best of both worlds—opulent accommodations and fine dining, paired with immersive cultural experiences and unrivalled Turkish hospitality.
How has the all-inclusive model evolved in recent years, and how has Rixos adapted to meet changing guest expectations?
The all-inclusive model has evolved significantly in recent years, with guests seeking more than just convenience—they now demand personalised, immersive, and high-quality experiences. In response to these changing expectations, Rixos Hotels has continually innovated, elevating the all-inclusive concept to new heights.
Where the traditional model focused on providing basic amenities, we now offer a comprehensive luxury experience that goes beyond the standard package. Our guests expect gourmet dining, exclusive experiences, and world-class service—all included. To meet these expectations, Rixos has expanded its offerings, introducing bespoke activities, tailored wellness programmes, and VIP-level services that ensure every guest feels valued and cared for.
Additionally, we’ve embraced technology to streamline guest experiences, from personalised check-ins to mobile concierge services that allow for instant access to everything from reservations to on-demand activities.
Ultimately, we’ve adapted by ensuring that our all-inclusive model is as dynamic and unique as our guests—offering not just luxury and comfort, but a range of memorable, authentic experiences that elevate every aspect of their stay.
What are the biggest challenges you face as COO, especially in maintaining consistency across properties in different markets?
As COO, one of the biggest challenges I face is maintaining consistency across Rixos properties in diverse markets while ensuring each hotel remains aligned with our brand’s core values. The luxury hospitality industry is dynamic, and each market presents its own unique demands, cultural nuances, and guest expectations. Balancing these factors while upholding Rixos’ high standards requires constant attention to detail, effective leadership, and flexibility.
In some markets, local cultural preferences may differ significantly, so we must tailor our offerings to resonate with local guests while ensuring the Rixos experience remains intact. This could mean adjusting our culinary offerings, design elements, or service styles to reflect local tastes, but it’s essential that these adaptations are done carried out in a way that enhances the Rixos identity, not dilutes it.
Another challenge is the scale of operations. With multiple properties across different regions, aligning our teams and operations can sometimes be a logistical challenge. However, we’ve developed robust communication systems, empowered local leadership teams, and instilled a culture of collaboration across our properties. This allows us to maintain consistency in service delivery, guest experience, and operational excellence.
Ultimately, the key to overcoming these challenges is a to focus on our people—ensuring that the teams across all properties are well-trained, motivated, and aligned with our brand’s values. By empowering local teams with the right tools and support, we can deliver a consistent, world-class Rixos experience that exceeds guest expectations, regardless of location.
Can you share some recent milestones or achievements for the Rixos Hotels brand?
Regional Expansion:
Rixos Hotels has significantly expanded its footprint in the Middle East, further solidifying its leadership in the all-inclusive luxury segment. The opening of Rixos Al Marid Rixos Al Mairid in Ras Al Khaimah marked a new milestone, with this highly anticipated property quickly becoming a standout destination. Offering an immersive all-inclusive experience, the resort seamlessly integrates cultural authenticity, world-class leisure, wellness, and family-friendly amenities. Its thoughtful design reflects Rixos’ commitment to harmonising luxury with environmental stewardship, reinforcing its position as the premier choice for discerning travellers in the region.
In addition, Rixos continues to thrive in Egypt, with its portfolio of properties delivering exceptional experiences and catering to a growing market of luxury travellers. Iconic resorts such as Rixos Sharm El Sheikh and Rixos Premium Seagate have become synonymous with unparalleled hospitality, showcasing the brand’s ability to blend opulence with cultural richness. These properties highlight Rixos’ dedication to offering world-class service while celebrating the unique heritage and landscapes of the region, further enhancing its appeal across the Middle East and North Africa.
What are your growth plans for the Rixos Hotels brand in the coming years? Are there any upcoming openings or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
Rixos Hotels has an ambitious and dynamic growth strategy for the coming years, with a clear focus on both expanding our global presence and continuing to innovate in luxury hospitality. Our aim is to deliver exceptional experiences that resonate with our guests, while also staying true to our core values of Turkish hospitality and world-class service.
New Openings:
We have a number several of highly anticipated openings lined up, with plans to expand further into key luxury destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. One of the most exciting is our upcoming property in Jeddah, which will offer an unparalleled experience in the region, combining modern luxury with local culture. Additionally, we’re exploring opportunities in Asia and the Caribbean, where we see a growing demand for all-inclusive, high-end resorts.
Enhancing the All-Inclusive Experience:
We’re also committed to elevating the all-inclusive model even further. Expect new, innovative offerings in wellness, fine dining, and experiential tourism, ensuring that each Rixos property delivers a truly unique and immersive guest experience. We are investing in wellness and sustainability initiatives that will make our properties even more attractive to today’s conscientious travellers.
Luxury Partnerships and Collaborations:
We’re excited to continue building strategic partnerships that enhance the Rixos experience. These collaborations span across luxury brands in fashion, wellness, and entertainment, offering our guests exclusive experiences that they can’t find elsewhere.
Technology and Innovation:
We’re investing in technology to enhance guest experiences, from personalised services to smarter, more efficient operations. We Our aim is to integrate cutting-edge technology that complements our exceptional service, ensuring that every guest’s stay is seamless and memorable.
Sustainability and Responsible Luxury:
In line with global trends, sustainability will continue to be a key pillar of our growth. We’re working towards making Rixos Hotels even more eco-conscious by implementing green technologies, reducing waste, and supporting local communities.
Our growth plans are centred around offering unparalleled luxury experiences that continue to exceed guest expectations. We’re excited about the future and look forward to welcoming guests to our new properties and initiatives in the coming years.
If you could describe Rixos Hotels in three words, what would they be?
Sophistication, Warmth, Distinction.
These words reflect the Rixos Hotels experience—sophistication in our design and service, warmth in our authentic Turkish hospitality, and distinction in the unique, personalised experiences we offer to our guests.
