Maya Rigg, CEO of Elite Havens, brings a brand-building pedigree shaped by leadership across industries and continents. With experience at globally recognised names including Unilever, Mondelez and Woolworths, she combines commercial discipline with a deep understanding of hospitality, technology and culture to shape memorable luxury experiences and sustainable growth.
What inspired you to pursue a leadership journey in luxury hospitality?
Brand building is in my DNA, having spent years with globally loved names like Unilever, Mondelez and Woolworths, so the opportunity to lead Asia’s leading villa brand was exciting. The growing luxury alternative accommodation market was also disrupting the industry, with villas at the forefront. It brought together everything I enjoy: the discipline of retail, a genuine love of food, and technology’s growing role in how guests experience a destination.
What has been the most defining moment of your career so far?
It is less a single moment than a series of them, built across different industries and four continents, each with its highlights and setbacks. COVID stands out. I joined Elite Havens at the end of 2019, just before the industry was upended, and we chose to invest while others were cutting costs. Building for the future rather than retreating from it paid off when travel returned.
As a CEO, what does leadership mean to you personally?
For me, it comes down to values and vision. My job is to hold those steady and ensure the business never loses sight of them. From there, I trust my leadership team to execute.
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