Today we’d like to introduce you to Nasir Zahir.
Hi Nasir, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Nasir Zahir, and I am a passionate hotelier with a lifelong commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Happily married and the proud father of three, my journey has been shaped by diverse experiences and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Born in Pakistan to a diplomat father, I had the unique opportunity to live in various countries, absorbing different cultures and perspectives. This global upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for hospitality and service. After completing my degree in Business, I moved to the United States in the late 1970s and attended the University of Texas at Arlington for couple of years. To support myself during my studies, I worked at the front desk for couple of hotels, which ignited my passion for the industry.
In 1980, I took a significant step in my career by applying for the Cost Controller position at the newly opening Four Seasons Las Colinas, Texas. Luckily, I secured the role, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in hospitality. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working internationally with renowned brands such as Hyatt International and ITT Sheraton, as well as some of the finest four- and five-star hotels in the U.S., including Stouffer’s, IHG, Hilton, boutique, Marriott, Renaissance, and independent establishments, where I held various executive positions, including Director of Food and Beverage, Regional Food and Beverage Director, Director of Operations, Hotel Manager, and General Manager.
A highlight of my career came in 1986 when I was honored with a City Key by the late Mayor Jerry Redding of Addison, Texas, following my naturalization as a U.S. citizen. After receiving my citizenship, when I got home, I saw that my answering machine was blinking. When I played it, it was my boss, telling me as soon as I get home to come by the hotel. I really got nervous and told my wife, “Oh no, maybe I am getting fired.” Anyway, to make the story short, I went to the hotel and to my boss’s office. His office had huge glass, so I started to wave to get his attention. He would not look at me. At that point I knew that I was going to be fired. After about 10 minutes he came out and said, “Let’s go, follow me.” I right away said to him, “Am I getting fired?” He again said, “Just follow me.” We ended up at the mezzanine level. I was very confused as to why we were on the meeting rooms floor. Finally, he opened the meeting room and asked me to go in, but I saw the room was dark. When I peeked into the room I heard huge shouting, “Nasir, congratulations on your citizenship!” and huge claps. I saw the entire management staff, mayor of Addison, and news media. I became very emotional when the GM and mayor honored me with the key to the city and USA flag. It was a humbling experience that reinforced my commitment to giving back to the community.
About a decade ago, I founded Boutique NZ Hospitality Company, collaborating with top professionals in the field to support hotels in refining their operations. My expertise spans cost control, hotel operations, training, sales and catering, and turnaround strategies. However, due to family circumstances, the impact of COVID-19, and the unfortunate passing of a partner, As I explore permanent executive opportunities in the hospitality sector, I will continue leading my consulting firm and delivering results for clients. During my consulting work, I did work for third-party companies as a task force General Manager, and I tremendously enjoyed it, especially when associates and managers brought me gifts. Some of them told me, ‘I wish you were our boss. We cannot forget what you have taught us; we will always remember you.’ Those words still make me tearful.
Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to mentorship, taking several aspiring hoteliers under my wing and guiding them toward success. I find immense joy in teaching and sharing my knowledge with anyone eager to learn about the hotel business.
In addition to my hands-on experience, I have recently contributed to the conversation in the hospitality industry through several articles: ·
Today’s Hotel Revenue Trends: A Snapshot of the Industry
https://www.hotel-online.com/press_releases/release/analyzing-todays-hotel-revenue-trends-a-snapshot-of-the-industry/ ·
Hotel Food and Beverage Trends: Shaping the Future of Hospitality https://web.archive.org/web/20240903211640/https:/www.todayshotelier.com/2024/08/21/hotel-food-and-beverage-trends/ ·
AI Technology Revolutionizing the Hotel Industry
https://www.hospitalitynet.org/opinion/4125059.html
U.S. Hotel Industry Forecast 2026
https://www.hotel-online.com/news/us-hotel-industry-forecast-2026
Customer Is Always Right
https://www.hotelexecutive.com/feature_focus/8381/customer-is-always-right
Age Discrimination Against Veteran Hoteliers: The Brand Experience Paradox
https://www.hotelexecutive.com/feature_focus/8346/age-discrimination-against-veteran-hotel-iers-the-brand-experience-paradox
I look forward to continuing my journey in hospitality, sharing my insights, and contributing to the growth and evolution of this dynamic industry. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. The journey has been challenging due to difficult family circumstances, the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the profound loss of one of my business partners.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about NZ Hospitality?
We are NZ Hospitality, a boutique full-service firm specializing in hotel management and consulting. We provide a complete suite of services for hotel owners, including third-party management, asset management, and operational consulting.
What sets us apart is our strategic, owner-first approach. We meticulously allocate our resources to address each client’s unique needs in the most cost-effective manner, ensuring a true partnership.
We are most proud of our commitment to delivering exceptional value and driving mutual success. We want client to know that we are dedicated, expert partners focused on client growth and excellence.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson we’ve learned is that resilience and deep human relationships are the foundation of any business, especially through periods of profound challenge and loss.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nzhospitality.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nz-hospitality/
