Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has appointed Rodrigo Buanafina as its new Resort Manager. Buanafina was promoted from his previous position as Director of Food & Beverage at the resort on 1 May.
As Resort Manager, Buanafina will oversee day-to-day operations of the five-star eco-resort, including this summer’s Overwater Bar renovation plans.
‘I am thrilled to be stepping up to the Resort Manager position at what is such an exciting time for Gili,’ said Buanafina, commenting on his appointment.
‘It’s been a joy to be part of this incredible team and iconic property over the last five years and I couldn’t be more excited for this new chapter in my Gili journey. I look forward to seeing our beloved island go from strength-to-strength, offering our clients a Maldivian adventure like no other in 2023 and beyond’.
A Brazilian native, Buanafina brings 10 years of luxury hospitality experience to his new role. He joined Gili Lankanfushi in 2018 as F&B Manager, and was quickly promoted to Director of F&B. During his five years in F&B leadership, he oversaw a near 100-strong team and implemented a number of unique gourmet offerings and experiences. Ranging from a new blind-dining experience and Brazilian Churrascaria theme night to a ‘Destination Drinking’ bartender battle, his innovations are credited with elevating the island’s dining offering to one of the most well-reputed in the Maldives.
Prior to his time at Gili, Buanafina held various F&B management roles across other Indian Ocean resorts, including two years as Assistant Director of F&B at Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort in Portugal and the largest in Europe.
