MEET THE GM

Meet the GM

The new general manager at The Capital Zimbali, Nelson Rodrigues, has led the once beleaguered resort hotel to profitability, just two months after it reopened in November 2021, after The Capital Hotels and Apartments acquired it earlier last year.

A R60-million refurbishment project, along with the addition of exciting new restaurants and bars, positioned the hotel perfectly to welcome visitors for the festive season holidays. Under Rodrigues’ watchful and experienced eye, guests flocked to the iconic property — with forward bookings for the year ahead already looking strong.

Mr Rodrigues joined The Capital Zimbali from his most recent successful posting at The Capital Menlyn Maine and The Capital Trilogy in Pretoria, which were also the group’s most profitable properties under his management.

His current successes follow on from a career of leading award-winning hotels and resorts — he was part of the opening team at the landmark The Westcliff Hotel and was general manager at the multi-award-winning Bushmanskloof Hotel in the Cedarberg. It was under his leadership that this magnificent property won ten international establishment and conservation awards, including the Travel and Leisure Award for the Best Hotel in the World, and the Best Lodge in Africa and the Middle East.

“I’ve travelled to more than 132 cities and love how travel inspires me to bring great ideas and innovations to make our guests’ experiences even more memorable,” Mr Rodrigues said.

“It’s truly an honour and a privilege to lead the passionate team at The Capital Zimbali, which is one of the most exciting properties in South Africa,” he added. “I have been a part of The Capital family since 2015, and I’m proud to be a part of its ongoing success and growth.”