#None #Caribbean #Divi Resorts #Maarten Smeets

Divi Resorts Welcomes Maarten Smeets as New Director of Operations

Divi Resorts, a leading name in the Caribbean vacation landscape, has officially welcomed Maarten Smeets as its new Director of Operations. This strategic appointment is poised to amplify the brand's commitment to exceptional guest experiences and cultural authenticity across its portfolio of resorts.

A Seasoned Professional with Global Expertise

Maarten Smeets comes to Divi Resorts with a distinguished career in hospitality that spans over 20 years. His extensive experience includes high-level positions at reputable companies like Explora Journeys, Virgin Voyages, and Marriott International. With a wealth of knowledge in optimizing service culture across various hospitality formats—ranging from ultra-luxury cruise lines to high-end resorts—Smeets is set to bring a fresh perspective to Divi's operations.

He graduated from a prestigious hotel school in the Netherlands and further honed his expertise at Cornell University's Nolan School of Hotel Administration. His international career has seen him work on five continents, which has enriched his approach to guest service through a culturally inclusive lens.

Focus on Authentic Hospitality and Guest Experience

As Director of Operations, Smeets aims to strengthen the guest experience at all Divi Resorts properties. He plans to collaborate closely with General Managers to elevate service standards while personally engaging with resort teams and guests. "My immediate priority is to immerse myself in day-to-day operations, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring we meet the evolving expectations of today's travelers," Smeets emphasized.

He believes that guests today are no longer satisfied with simple vacations; instead, they seek emotional connections, authenticity, and personalized experiences. Smeets stated, "Experiential luxury is taking precedence over material luxury. At Divi, we are perfectly positioned to meet this demand with our all-inclusive offerings and heart-led service."

Sustainable Practices and Community Commitment

Notably, Smeets underscored that he resonates deeply with Divi's commitment to local communities and sustainability. His years at sea have provided him with unique insights, and he shares a strong affinity for the Caribbean, calling it home after previously working in Aruba.

"Returning to Aruba feels like coming home, and I look forward to truly embracing the Caribbean spirit and community in a land-based setting," he expressed. His connection to the region, combined with his operational expertise, will play a crucial role in fostering relations not only with guests but also with local partners to enhance Divi’s impact.

Crafting Unreasonable Hospitality

With a vision to redefine guest interactions, Smeets described his leadership philosophy as one driven by creating meaningful and memorable experiences. He believes, "The ultimate luxury is time, and every moment spent at our resorts should make guests feel welcomed and valued. It’s the personal touches and genuine connections that pave the way for what I term ‘unreasonable hospitality.’"

This innovative mindset aligns with Divi Resorts' ethos of providing heartfelt service and experiences that resonate with guests. Maarten’s excitement regarding his new role reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality and authenticity that Divi Resorts promises to deliver.

Divi Resorts: A Legacy of Unmatched Hospitality

For over five decades, Divi Resorts has been a staple in the Caribbean vacation market known for delivering unforgettable experiences rooted in authenticity and hospitality. With locations across Aruba, Bonaire, Barbados, St. Maarten, and St. Croix, Divi continues to evolve its offerings, focusing on creating unique and memorable vacations that cater to the ever-changing needs of travelers. The arrival of Maarten Smeets marks a promising new chapter in the brand's journey, ensuring it remains at the forefront of guest experience enhancement and operational excellence.

As Divi Resorts embarks on this new phase of leadership under Maarten Smeets, the future looks bright, promising not just vacations, but genuine experiences grounded in Caribbean culture and hospitality.