Introduction
With over four decades of experience in the travel and aviation industry, Mano Chandra Dhas has carved a niche for himself as a thought leader, innovator, and mentor. From spearheading the establishment of regional travel networks to optimizing corporate travel budgets for multinationals, Mano's journey is defined by his strategic vision, comprehensive expertise, and passion for nurturing talent.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
What Mano Does
Mano specializes in enhancing the profitability and efficiency of Travel Management Companies (TMCs) and businesses by providing strategic consultancy services. His work focuses on:
- Corporate Travel Cost Management: Including VAT recovery and T&E budget optimization, ensuring companies maximize their savings on travel expenditures.
- Business Development and Strategy: From setting up travel agencies and obtaining IATA accreditation to developing commercial networks across regions.
- Training and Development: Mano believes in nurturing the next generation of leaders, offering training in client account management, staff motivation, and specialized services.
- Marketing and Content Creation: Producing compelling marketing materials, web content, and presentations that drive business success.
Key Achievements
- Regional Expansion: Mano was instrumental in setting up HRG Middle East & West Asia, a network spanning 15 countries, which he completed in just 22 months. Under his leadership, HRG UAE became a dominant player in the corporate travel market.
- Innovative Solutions: He introduced several firsts to the Middle East travel industry, including setting up a Visa Procurement Service, a regional credit card system for TMCs, and a Marine Travel Division.
What Sets Mano Apart?
Empowerment and Mentorship
Mano's colleagues often highlight his ability to empower, mentor, and inspire those around him. His leadership style fosters an environment where team members are encouraged to shine, innovate, and grow. His approach to leadership combines deep industry knowledge with a genuine commitment to developing others.
A True Professional with a Heart
Mano's leadership goes beyond business; he is known for his empathy, approachability, and the personal connections he builds with his team. This unique blend of professionalism and compassion makes him not just a leader, but a mentor who deeply cares about the success and well-being of his colleagues.
Visionary and Trailblazer
Mano has always been ahead of his time, envisioning solutions and strategies that drive long-term success. His forward-thinking approach has helped companies excel under his guidance, setting new standards in corporate travel management.
Career Highlights
Coromandel SAS (2013–Present)
Mano currently serves as Managing Partner at Coromandel SAS, based in Bogotá, Colombia, where he helps businesses recover VAT on business travel, optimize travel budgets, and develop regional commercial networks. He provides consultancy services to clients across South America, the USA, and the Arabian Gulf.
Emirates Airline Group (1993–2008)
During his tenure at Emirates, Mano managed various strategic projects, including setting up the BTI Middle East & West Asia network, a VAT recovery division, and a Visa Procurement service. His efforts helped position Emirates as a leader in corporate travel services in the region.
Carlson Wagonlit Travel – UAE – Alshamel (2008–2012)
As Country Manager for UAE, Mano was responsible for the overall P&L, supplier agreements, and innovative credit card solutions for TMC operations across the Middle East.
A Multifaceted Personality
Beyond his professional achievements, Mano is a man of many talents. Darryl Sequeira, a strategic leader, describes him as "a person with high integrity, humility, and kindness... an extremely talented individual who sings, plays the guitar, paints, and excels as a professional photographer." These creative pursuits reflect Mano's ability to see the world from different perspectives, bringing a unique, holistic approach to his professional endeavors.
A Role Model for Many
Former colleagues like Valentine D'Silva see Mano as a role model: "He gathers great respect for setting high standards and ensured that we delivered nothing short of his expectation." His dedication to excellence and people development has left a lasting impact on those who have worked with him, solidifying his legacy as a leader who not only drives business success but also helps others realize their full potential.
Professional Endorsements
"The empowerment, conviction, professionalism and trust Mano gave his Managers are traits of a great and astute Leader. Mano carries with him immense domain knowledge and experience, worth its weight in Star dust."
"Given his natural organisation skills and his enviable ability to stay focussed, he can always be relied on, to deliver. Project Management comes to him naturally. His man management skills are also commendable."
"A person with very high integrity, humility & kindness. He had the leadership courage to put his head on the block for his values, believes & the truth. An extremely talented individual who sang with a wonderful voice, played the guitar, an exceptional painter & a professional photographer."
Connect with Mano
Contact Information
Ready to take your business travel strategy to the next level or explore opportunities to optimize your T&E budget? Reach out to Mano Chandra Dhas for a consultation today:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +573204925300