“We are one of only two hotels in the UAE to achieve Green Globe Platinum Certification," says GM, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

With over two decades in hospitality, how has your international experience — from Thailand to Germany — shaped your leadership style today at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach?

Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about taking care of those in your charge. - This mindset was shaped by my global journey — from the warmth and humility of Thai hospitality, to the precision and discipline I embraced in Germany. Each culture brought a valuable lesson that molded my leadership style. Now in Dubai, I blend these experiences to foster an inclusive environment that values cultural intelligence, innovation, and guest-centric excellence. Being agile and open-minded is crucial in leading diverse teams in such a dynamic, multicultural market.

What key initiatives have you implemented since taking over as General Manager in Dubai that have contributed to the hotel’s success in innovation and sustainability?

Innovation and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach. A key initiative I am proud of is our sustainability programme, which includes eliminating plastic usage, sourcing locally, and investing in energy-efficient technology. We are one of only two hotels in the UAE to achieve Green Globe Platinum Certification, showcasing our commitment to sustainable practices. Additionally, we have earned the DET Stamp Silver for the second year in a row, reflecting our ongoing environmental efforts.

We have also embraced innovation, introducing tech enhancements like contactless check-ins and room automation, which have elevated the guest experience while reinforcing our dedication to responsible hospitality.

How do you maintain a guest-centric approach while also focusing on operational efficiency and financial performance in such a dynamic market as Dubai?

Balancing a guest-centric approach with operational efficiency and financial performance requires a careful blend of empathy and strategy. We have empowered our team to always put guests first, ensuring they receive best-in-class service with personalised attention and care. At the same time, I believe that efficiency and financial health are essential to maintaining that exceptional experience.

We streamline processes, automate where possible, and continually evaluate our offerings to meet both guest expectations and financial goals. We also foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas on how we can enhance both guest satisfaction and operational excellence. The key is to never lose sight of the guest while optimizing our operations for long-term success.

Having led properties in diverse regions, what are some universal leadership principles you uphold, and how do you adapt them to different cultural and business environments?

One universal principle I adhere to is the importance of clear communication. Whether in Thailand, Germany, Mauritius or Dubai, transparent communication fosters trust and ensures alignment across all levels of the organisation. I also believe in leading by example, which means setting high standards for myself and my team. Another core principle is empowering my team members and providing them with the tools they need to succeed. In each region, this is adapted to local customs and expectations.

For example, in Dubai, where we have a multicultural workforce, I emphasize inclusivity and respect for all backgrounds, which strengthens team cohesion and morale. Adaptability is key — you need to understand local nuances but maintain a core set of principles that guide decision-making and behavior across the board.

As a graduate of Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, how has your academic foundation influenced your long-term vision for the Mövenpick brand in the UAE?

Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne instilled in me a strong understanding of the hospitality industry’s fundamental principles, but it also encouraged me to think strategically and with a global perspective. The academic foundation provided me with not only the technical skills needed to run operations smoothly but also the critical thinking skills required to navigate the evolving dynamics of the industry. This education has played a significant role in shaping my long-term vision.

I envision the brand as a leader in quality, sustainability, and innovation. My academic background emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to hospitality — one that combines luxury with responsibility and service with sustainability. That’s the future I am working towards here at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach.