Jahmed Mills sits on the balcony at Point Pleasant Resort. (Gerard Sperry photo)

St.Thomas , USVI Hotel the Point Pleasant Resort is transforming an already special property into a “top shelf” vacation spot. Under the direction of Jahmed Mills, the 128 unit resort overlooking Water Bay and beyond into the BVIs hasn’t simply repaired and repainted after 2017’s hurricanes, but has taken the opportunity rethink the level of its offering.

The 40-year old Mills got back to St. Thomas in early July 2018.

“This is home for me … always has been,” he said.

Mills was born on St. Kitts and his family moved to the U.S. Virgin Islands . He is a product of the USVI schools, right up through his masters’ degree in business from the University of the Virgin Islands.

“My first real job was at the Marriott Reef, and I have to credit my time there as a great foundation for my career advancement,” he said.

There he learned the organization and procedures to make a large-scale property the guest experience one hopes for. Hundreds of rooms, beaches and multiple dining venues – and the staff to provide services beyond guests’ expectations.

“It was there that I got the systems figured out, a good foundation on which to build a career in hospitality,” he said.

Mills learned how to optimize the operations of a “high-end” property during his time at one of Marriott’s Autograph Collection hotels, The French Leave on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. The exclusive 20-bungalow resort offers units that range as high as $1,000 per night, with moorings renting for $100 per day and a dock capable of securing 180-foot long yachts. Gourmet meals delivered anywhere on the property and an astonishing array of services indicate that this hotel leaves nothing to chance.

“It was there I learned that anyone can provide the physical elements, but what would set us apart is the service from our entire staff. For me this means solid training, good incentive and empowerment to do the task perfectly and reap the rewards of the job well done. The nuts and bolts of the business are there for all to see but the tie-breaker is a proud, motivated staff.”

During his tenure as general manager, The French Leave won the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Award and was among the top ten of Marriott Autograph Resorts.

He chose to return to St. Thomas to be able to spend more time with his family. He was commuting on weekends. While his house is being repaired from hurricane damage, he is living at the resort and, as one might expect, he is never off the clock, living in the middle of his work in progress. He is quick to share praise for their improving situation with Larry Stokes, who has had contractors on the scene since 2017. Both he and Stokes report to a seven-member board of directors who are all eager to raise the level of excellence. While not all units are under their management – some are independently operated – it is Mills’ contention that all guests must be given the all the services they need. The long-term goal is to change the perception of “condo association/timeshare” and establish Point Pleasant as a home away from home, with every amenity one could wish for at a very reasonable price point.

In addition to the beautifully furnished units, the new Point Pleasant will offer food shopping service, an in-room “island pantry” (something like a mini-bar) and two refreshed restaurants, the casual Shoreline, down by the water’s edge and the elegant Mirador. Add that to the beaches, availability of water toys and plenty of near-by charters and there is little left to wish for.

Jahmed Mills wants the locals to experience the new attitude and style of Point Pleasant Resort and is offering a locals rate until Dec. 17 while the finishing touches are being made.

More information on bookings for accommodation or events is available by calling Point Pleasant Resort at 340-775-7200.