JA Resorts & Hotels has announced the appointment of Jason Kruse as General Manager of JA Manafaru in Haa Alif Atoll, the northernmost private island resort in the Maldives.

With over 20 years of experience in the international hospitality and tourism sector, Jason started his career filling notable senior leadership positions across a portfolio of properties in his native Australia.

Most recently Jason held the position of General Manager at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences, revitalising the luxury resort’s guest experience for three and a half years. Prior to Amilla, he led the preopening team for the sustainability-focused Six Senses in Fiji. Additional Maldives experience includes Universal Resort’s Kurumba Maldives, where Jason was based for six years. He also served as General Manager at Casa Del Mar in Langkawi, Malaysia and The Breezes Resort in Bali, Indonesia. 

"Jason’s wealth of experience in luxury worldwide resorts and particularly island destinations will complement the current team of talented hoteliers at JA Manafaru to further strengthen the island’s reputation for delivering first-class services and unique guest experiences. 

“Jason is also passionate about introducing more sustainable practices to the island, alongside his wife, Victoria, who joins the company as Sustainability and Environmental advisor. Supported by the island team, the couple will focus on expanding JA Manafaru’s core brand essence as an authentic Maldivian escape”, stated Nelson Gibb, Group CEO, Group Development – JA Resorts & Hotels.

With just 84 beach and water villas, the lush natural island of JA Manafaru is unique as the remotest of all Maldivian resorts, offering Indian Ocean serenity complimented with a five-star boutique experience. Is it located just 10 minutes from Hoarafushi Airport, which is a scenic 50-minute premium direct transfer flight from Velana International Airport.