August 2025: Gili Lankanfushi, the pioneer of sustainable, barefoot luxury in the Maldives, is delighted to announce the promotion of Rodrigo Buanafina to General Manager, effective 4th August. A promotion from his previous position as Resort Manager at the five-star eco-resort, Buanafina brings 15 years of luxury hospitality experience to his new role.
In his role as General Manager, Buanafina will oversee day-to-day operations of the 45-villa island and nearly 300 person-strong team, leading strategy for the continued growth and excellence of the Maldives’ original luxury eco-resort.
“It is an honour to step into the role of General Manager at Gili Lankanfushi, a resort that has played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey over the past seven years,” commented Buanafina on his promotion. “Gili Lankanfushi has long set the standard for excellence in the industry — from its ground-breaking sustainability initiatives to its exceptional facilities and unparalleled guest experiences. In a world of rapid changes, our magical island offers a familiar and consistent sense of escape for all ages. I am excited to play my part in that and lead the resort into its next chapter, building upon its legacy of world-class hospitality, providing Maldivian adventures of a lifetime for our guests.”
A Brazilian native, Buanafina first joined the Gili Lankanfushi team as F&B Manager in 2018 and was quickly promoted to Director of F&B. During his five years in F&B leadership, he oversaw a near 100-strong team and implemented a number of unique gourmet offerings and experiences. Ranging from a new blind-dining experience and Brazilian Churrascaria theme night to a ‘Destination Drinking’ bartender battle, his innovations are credited with elevating the island’s dining offering to one of the most well-reputed in the Maldives.
In 2023 and in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the resort’s F&B offering, Buanafina was promoted to Resort Manager. The promotion saw his remit expand further, where he oversaw day-to-day operations across the resort, including extensive renovation plans. These saw the construction of a brand-new Marine Biology centre and Overwater Restaurant, as well as the refurbishment of the resort throughout.
Prior to his time at Gili, Buanafina held various F&B management roles at hotels ranging from “The Nittany Lion Inn” at The Pennsylvania State University campus to “Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort” in southern Portugal’s stunning Algarve region.
Gili Lankanfushi enjoys an unspoilt island location in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé airport. Perfectly suited for couples, families, solo travellers and groups alike, the resort combines rustic eco-design, unparalleled service and stunning natural scenery with a laid-back-luxury, ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy.
-Ends-
About Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
This award-winning eco-resort comprises 45 sumptuous overwater villas, including seven Crusoe Residences and The Private Reserve, one of the most exclusive and largest overwater villas in the world. Following the 2019 refurbishment, gazing out at the crystal-clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean from this private island has never been so luxurious. All categories of villas and residences come with a dedicated Mr/s Friday butler service, catering for guests every need. Rustic eco-design, unparalleled service, stunning natural surroundings and a laid-back luxury ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy have guests returning for more of this sustainable paradise. Gili Lankanfushi has a hard-to-rival location: an unspoiled island in a large lagoon in the North Malé atoll, which is a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé. This iconic Maldivian island is perfectly suited for couples, families, solo travellers and groups who are bound to “arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family,” per the Gili philosophy.
For more information, please visit www.gililankanfushi.com
