Group Chief Executive Officer
Benoy Kurien has been the driving force behind the impressive expansion of Al Hamra.
Serving as the Group Chief Executive Officer at Al Hamra, a prominent lifestyle development and investment company in the UAE, Benoy holds the reins to oversee the operations and assets of this esteemed $1 billion conglomerate.
His journey with Al Hamra commenced in 1998, where he embarked on a path of continuous achievement, swiftly ascending the professional ladder to attain his current esteemed position. His extensive expertise spans diverse domains, encompassing strategic formulation and execution, portfolio expansion across retail, residential, hospitality, leisure, and entertainment.
An embodiment of inspiration, Benoy has played an indispensable role in moulding the trajectory of Al Hamra and its various subsidiaries. He remains meticulously informed about crucial financial and strategic insights, directing his efforts towards fostering the enduring expansion and success of Al Hamra.
Originally hailing from Bangalore, India, Benoy holds a BA in Commerce, Economics, Taxation, and Accounting from St. Joseph’s College of Commerce in Bangalore, India.
Group Chief Financial Officer
Raman Garg holds the role of Group Chief Financial Officer at Al Hamra, boasting a seasoned background in strategic finance and transformative business practices, spanning an impressive three decades. His extensive expertise encompasses various facets, including business ownership, financial stewardship, mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, capital procurement, as well as overseeing commercial and customer operations, and fostering business growth within dynamically evolving landscapes.
Before becoming part of the Al Hamra team, Raman held the position of Head of Portfolio Finance at Sequoia Capital, a prestigious venture capital firm of top-tier standing. During his tenure, he collaborated closely with CEOs and CFOs of a portfolio comprising over 100 companies, implementing substantial enhancements in key strategic and operational indicators to augment shareholder value. He also played a foundational role in establishing India Shelter Finance Corporation Ltd, an innovative micro-home finance company in India.
Raman's professional journey also encompasses significant leadership roles at prominent global corporations, including Max New York Life Insurance, The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Akzo Nobel, and ITC. He is a certified Chartered Accountant from The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, a Company Secretary from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India, and is a Cost Accountant from the Costs and Works Accountant of India. He holds a BA in Commerce from St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata, India.
Senior Vice President of Hospitality
As Senior Vice President of Hospitality at Al Hamra, Christopher Hewett brings forth a wealth of advisory and development expertise accumulated over a span of more than 13 years within the MENA region's hospitality sector. In his capacity, Christopher oversees the growth and expansion of Al Hamra's multifaceted hospitality and leisure division.
Previously, Christopher served as the Director at TRI Consulting and offered consultancy services to HNIs, governmental entities, and international real estate developers. In the areas of market and financial feasibility, operational evaluations, due diligence, negotiation, strategic development planning, and hotel valuations.
Christopher's professional journey traverses diverse geographical landscapes, spanning from New Zealand to Australia and currently in the United Arab Emirates. Throughout these ventures, he has engaged with distinguished hospitality brands, contributing to his diverse and rich experience within the industry.
Endowed with strong leadership capabilities and a knack for interpersonal interactions, Christopher is an award-winning leader with a strong track record in delivering innovative ideas and fresh concepts that result in outstanding service.
Academically, Christopher holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management from the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School in Australia.
