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 & Head of Hospitality
Christopher Hewett is Senior Vice President and Head of Hospitality at Al Hamra, the leading real estate developer and investment company in the United Arab Emirates.
An industry professional with over 17 years experience in the MENA hospitality industry, Christopher oversees the management, growth and development of Al Hamra’s AED 1.5b hospitality and leisure portfolio.
Al Hamra’s hospitality portfolio includes the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, Ritz Carlton Al Hamra Beach Resort, Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort as well as Al Hamra Golf Club, a DP World Tour venue and Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club.
In addition to his role at Al Hamra, Christopher works closely with key stakeholders in Ras Al Khaimah in developing the wider hospitality and tourism sector.
Christopher is also the Secretary General and Board Member of the UAE Restaurant Group and is an active member of the Hotel Asset Manager Association (HAMA) in the Middle East.
