From Couscous to Cape Panwa: Hamza Cofi’s Journey to Leading Phuket’s Most Promising New Resort
We caught up with Hamza Cofi, GM of the newly opened Veranda Resort Phuket—an elegant Autograph Collection property on Cape Panwa—to explore his hospitality journey, leadership insights, and behind‑the‑scenes stories from a tropical luxury resort.
What do you do?
I’m the General Manager of a luxury resort in Phuket, part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott. I lead the overall operations, focusing on guest satisfaction, team development, and financial performance.
How did you get into the industry?
I started my career in food and beverage nearly two decades ago. Over the years, my passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences naturally guided me into hotel leadership roles.
Share a story from behind the scenes.
During the pre-opening of one of my past properties, we had to welcome our very first guests while construction was still wrapping up. With limited systems, the team came together to deliver service from the heart. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding.
What food memory from your childhood or travels stands out?
I’ll never forget Friday lunches at home in Morocco, family gathered around a big plate of couscous with lamb and vegetables. That memory stayed with me and shaped my love for warm, shared meals.
What’s the best/ worst part of your job?
The best part is seeing the team grow and succeed, and hearing that a guest had a truly memorable stay. The toughest part is handling unexpected issues, especially last-minute challenges during peak periods.
What’s one of your favourite food and beverage pairings?
Freshly grilled seafood with a crisp glass of white wine, especially on a warm evening by the sea—it’s simple but perfect.
What’s one of the wildest things you’ve seen behind the scenes?
Once, a monkey sneaked into our breakfast area and made off with a croissant. The guest was more amused than upset, luckily, but it was a reminder that managing a resort in the tropics comes with surprises!
The perfect day off would be…
Spending quality time with my daughter and family, perhaps a quiet day at the beach, no emails, no meetings, just enjoying life.
A day in the life of Hamza Cofi is …
Fast-paced, unpredictable, and people-focused. From morning briefings to guest interactions and crisis-solving, no two days are ever the same.
What does Hamza Cofi do for fun?
I enjoy content creation, especially short videos. It’s a creative outlet for me and a way to share ideas beyond the hotel world.
What would you like guests to know about Veranda Resort Phuket?
Each Autograph hotel is unique, with its own story and soul. Our property seamlessly blends local culture, design, and warm service, creating a truly personal and memorable stay.
How have you grown in your profession? What are your key learnings from your start in the industry until now? Are there any misconceptions?
I’ve learned that leadership is less about giving orders and more about listening, empowering others, and staying calm under pressure. One big misconception is that a GM’s job is glamorous. It’s actually a lot of hard work behind the scenes, and success depends on the strength of the team.
What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve overcome?
Opening a resort during a global pandemic was incredibly difficult. Limited staffing, travel restrictions, and uncertainty pushed us to be resourceful, patient, and resilient.
What would you like people to know about being a general manager as a profession?
It’s a 24/7 commitment. You’re not just managing a building; you’re leading people, handling emotions, protecting the brand, and constantly solving problems. But it’s deeply rewarding.
What’s your view on the hospitality scene in Phuket?
Phuket remains one of the most dynamic markets in Southeast Asia. It’s competitive but also full of potential, especially for brands that focus on lifestyle, sustainability, and experience.
What are the top three things you like to do in Phuket?
Beach walks at sunrise, exploring local restaurants, and island hopping with family or friends.
What practices do you currently implement or hope to implement to work towards social responsibility and sustainability in the future?
We’ve reduced our use of single-use plastics, source ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, and are investing in energy-saving systems. In the future, we aim to involve guests more in our sustainability journey through meaningful experiences.
What are your future plans for your brand?
We’re working to position the property as a top lifestyle destination in Phuket, blending luxury with authenticity. I want it to be known not just for rooms and views but for stories, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Read more interviews like this withHamza Cofi to learn more about careers in the hospitality industry here. Stay updated with the latest gourmet and travel recommendations with The Yum List on Facebook and The Yum List on Instagram.
