Shanmugam Thangavelu

Shanmugam Thangavelu is a seasoned hospitality executive with over 25 years of experience managing high-end resorts and hotels across Malaysia, Singapore, and the Seychelles. His career reflects a deliberate and steady progression through the full spectrum of hotel operations from Guest Service Manager and Director of Housekeeping to Director of Rooms, Executive Assistant Manager, Director of Operations, and ultimately General Manager a journey built within some of the world’s most respected luxury and international brands including Four Seasons, Raffles, Westin, and Marriott International.

In senior operational leadership at The Westin Langkawi, Shanmugam navigated the resort through the pandemic while driving consistent improvements in guest satisfaction and revenue. His subsequent track record as General Manager  delivering strong financial results alongside a high Associate Engagement Index  reflects an ability to balance commercial performance with people leadership, meeting the expectations of owners, guests, and teams in equal measure.

A holder of a Degree in Economics from Universiti Utara Malaysia, Shanmugam brings to his role as Industry Advisor with Asianhotelier.Org a wealth of cross-brand, cross-market experience and a deep commitment to people development and operational excellence.

Derrick Felix

Derrick Felix is a seasoned hospitality leader with over 29 years of experience across international and local hotel properties. Currently serving as General Manager within Marriott International, his career has spanned multiple senior leadership roles reflecting a consistent track record of operational excellence and financial delivery across diverse property types and market segments. His rise through the ranks is a compelling example of industry-grown leadership — shaped entirely through hands-on experience, on-the-job progression, and structured professional development, proving that talent and dedication are the most powerful qualifications of all.

A specialist in hotel pre-openings, Derrick has successfully led the launch of multiple properties, with several achieving GOP and EBITDA targets within months of opening. His early career grounding in Food & Beverage and banquet management gives him a strong end-to-end understanding of hotel operations that continues to inform his general management approach today.

As an Industry Advisor with Asianhotelier.Org, Derrick brings a practical, results-driven perspective shaped by nearly three decades on the frontlines of hotel leadership. His passion for developing leaders, empowering teams, and building commercially sound yet people-focused operations makes him a valuable voice in guiding the next generation of hospitality professionals across the region.