Sonu Shivdasani

Biographical Information
"In 1995, Sonu and his wife Eva opened their first property – Soneva Fushi, in the Maldives, creating a high end market in what was formerly a mass market destination. In 2000, Soneva Fushi was awarded the Best of the Best by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller UK. Sonu’s concept was Intelligent Luxury and was the forerunner and inspiration for a host of imitators who saw the potential in going green.

"In 2010, Six Senses has 26 resorts and 41 spas that are either open or under development. Sonu recently revised the group’s core purpose: To create innovative and enlightening experiences that rejuvenate our guests love of SLOW LIFE (Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wholesome Learning-Inspiring-Fun-Experiences). He has also declared that the Six Senses group will be decarbonising by 2020 - removing its net carbon emissions from its overall operations.

"Sonu’s other goals for the next decade include the recognition of Six Senses properties in the top 10 best places to work, worldwide – already well on the way, with resort-like facilities for hosts living on-site at many of his properties; and creating the Six Senses Foundation to manage the group’s philanthropic endeavors. The group has recently provided one developing community with a wind turbine to reduce dependence on traditional power sources, and has strong community programmes in every location in which Six Senses operates.

"A descendant of Indian parents, Sonu was born and studied largely in England, with some periods of his education being in Nigeria and Switzerland. He is an alumnus of Eton College and a graduate of Oxford University, where he received an MA in English Literature."


 * Chairman and CEO, Six Senses Resorts & Spas