CEO
Ismail Khan
Ismail brings in a fresh perspective to all his businesses founded by his forefathers, gaining his education from the University of Toronto and certification from the Cornell University; he’s the business maestro that Grace needed to define the principles of inclusivity and authenticity. With his vision, strategic direction, and unwavering commitment, we create remarkable experiences for the business traveller and tourism sector, his vast understanding of economics, human geography and hospitality coupled with his passion for tourism adds an energetic yet sustainable zest to Grace – Our commitment under his guidance to be the leading hospitality brand in the nation with our passion, determination, and dedication to outstanding hospitality helps us to deliver our promise to leave an indelible mark for years to come.
COO
Waseem Baig
His journey began with McDonald’s U.K. Ltd., where he completed the Management Development Program. Upon returning to Pakistan, he joined the Food & Beverage Division at Avari Ramada Renaissance Hotel, Lahore. Over the years, he has held various roles in prominent hotel groups like Avari, Pearl Continental, and Serena, driven by his passion for hospitality and exploration. Waseem’s dedication to learning and growth is evident in his participation in professional training programs and workshops with institutions like the Pakistan Institute of Management and Cornell University. For almost four years now, he has been an integral part of the Grace Hospitality Group, contributing his expertise in team building, goal setting, effective communication, and more to ensure guest comfort and satisfaction.
CFO
Naveed Ahmed
Naveed is a Financial Controller with a demonstrated history of working in the hospitality industry. He has made his mark in this growing and competitive hospitality world with complete dedication, untiring efforts, and hard work. He has expertise in financial reporting, planning, budgeting, implementing procedures of internal controls, forecasting, designing and setting up ERP systems, finalizing accounts, fixed assets, and general ledgers, among others. He is a member of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan. As part of Grace’s Core Team, he supports executives in moving the company toward its mission and goals with financial information and analysis.
Director Sales & Marketing
Tayyab Raza
Meet Tayyab Raza, a seasoned Sales Director with a knack for luxury hospitality. With over two decades of experience in high-end hotels, Tayyab excels in strategic planning and tackling challenges, particularly soft openings. He has successfully spearheaded soft openings for three hotel properties. His meticulous market research, targeted sales and marketing strategies, and relationship-building with key stakeholders have redefined business norms. Tayyab’s proactive client engagement and commitment to seamless guest experiences have generated significant buzz, increased revenue, and established a strong foundation for long-term success. As a dynamic sales team leader, his contributions are highly valued at Grace, propelling the company to new heights of success.
HR Head
Usama Sohail
A seasoned HR professional with nearly a decade of comprehensive experience in all facets of human resources, Usama Sohail is a distinguished graduate of Punjab University and holds an MBA from NCBAE, along with a course in labor laws from PIQC. Throughout his career, Usama has demonstrated exceptional expertise in talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and organizational development. Notably, he spearheaded the digitalization of major HR processes, transitioning from manual handling to streamlined digital solutions. His strategic approach and innovative HR practices have earned him a solid reputation in the industry. As part of Grace’s Core Team, Usama’s adeptness in human resource management has been instrumental in fostering a productive and harmonious workplace, ensuring the brand not only attracts but also retains top-tier talent, thereby maintaining its status and prestige.
Creative & PR Head
Minal Akram
Graduate of Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design with her degree in Fashion Marketing and Merchandising, Minal has successfully made her name in the world of Creative Marketing in Pakistan not just in the fashion retail industry but also start-ups by being associated with them as the youngest Director. She has easily gained the reputation of being a Marketing and Business Development Maven over the past decade. Her addition to the Grace’s Core Team has brought a diverse and creative flare to the brand, her value addition in terms of strategy development, creative communication and content development has given Grace a fresh perspective that it needed to become and maintain itself as the leading hospitality brand.
Executive Chef
Aziz Sarwar
Chef Aziz Sarwar Khan, our Executive Chef, enriches the Grace Core team with over 28 years of culinary excellence. Known for his mastery of international cuisine and innovative menu development, Chef Aziz has led top kitchens, including Royal Palm Golf & Country Club and various properties of Serena Hotels. At Ramada Hotel by Wyndham in Lahore, he ensures exceptional dining experiences through fresh, high-quality ingredients and meticulous standards. His leadership and dedication make every meal memorable, enhancing our commitment to unparalleled hospitality and dining.
