Rodrigo Buanafina – Newly Appointed Resort Manager At Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
Tuesday 9th of May 2023
The pioneering sustainable barefoot luxury resort in the Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi has announced the appointment of Rodrigo Buanafina to the position of Resort Manager, effective from 1st May 2023. Buanafina brings over 10 years of extensive experience in the luxury hospitality industry to his role and was previously serving as the Director of Food & Beverage at the exclusive five-star eco-resort.
As part of his promotion to Resort Manager, Buanafina will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations at the 45-villa resort, including the renovation plans scheduled to take place at the Overwater Bar this summer.
Speaking about his promotion. Buanafina enthused, “I am thrilled to be stepping up to the Resort Manager position at what is such an exciting time for Gili. 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.”
Hailing from Brazil, Buanafina initially joined the Gili Lankanfushi team in 2018 as F&B Manager before being quickly promoted to the position of Director of F&B. Under his F&B leadership, he supervised a near 100-strong team and conducted a variety of authentic gourmet offerings and experiences. This included introducing an all-new blind-dining experience, a Brazilian Churrascaria theme night and an inspiring ‘Destination Drinking’ bartender battle.
His innovative curations significantly elevated the island’s gastronomical offerings, which contributed to the Gili Lankanfushi reputation as one of the best properties in the Maldives to indulge in exceptional culinary adventures. Prior to his posting at Gili, Buanafina held various F&B management roles in several Indian Ocean resorts as well as across Europe. This includes 2 years as Assistant Director at Pine Cliffs in Portugal – a Luxury Collection Resort and the largest in Europe.
Gili Lankanfushi takes pride in bringing an untouched island location to guests in the Maldives, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Perfectly suited for couples, families, solo travellers and groups alike, the resort combines rustic eco-design, unparalleled service and stunning natural scenery with a laid-back-luxury, 'no news, no shoes' philosophy. The award-winning eco-resort celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2022, following a complete refurbishment of all 45 villas in 2019.
