Fabien Chesnais’ Hospitality Secrets – The Game-Changing Advice You Need!Jeannette talks to Fabien Chesnais, the General Manager of the General Manager of Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island. Fabien shares his journey in the hospitality industry, discussing the evolving role of a general manager and the importance of understanding operations, technology, and team dynamics. He reflects on the challenges of opening a hotel, the significance of creativity in food and beverage offerings, and the changing demands of customers, particularly regarding sustainability and dietary preferences
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The role of a general manager in hospitality has shifted from primarily being a PR representative to requiring a diverse skill set that includes commercial acumen, technological proficiency, and a deep understanding of operations across all departments.
Effective general management involves not only operational knowledge but also strong people management skills. Motivating and developing a team is crucial, as the hospitality industry is fundamentally a people-centric business.
Opening a hotel is a complex process that involves meticulous planning, team hiring, system implementation, and navigating regulatory requirements. Successful openings often require flexibility and proactive problem-solving to meet deadlines and expectations.
Modern customers are increasingly focused on sustainability, health, and unique experiences. This shift necessitates that hotels adapt their offerings, including food and beverage options, to meet diverse dietary needs and preferences.
BEST MOMENTS
"To become a good general manager, you need to understand the operation. You need to understand each department in depth. And this takes time."
"I think there is definitely a sense of care. When customers choose a hotel, they want to make sure that this hotel is sustainable and takes care of its people."
"Food is a non-ending story. We sleep one time, we eat three times."
"I think there is a lot of, you know, let's try it, let's be different, let's be aggressive. But there is no fear here."
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VALUABLE RESOURCES
Brave Bold Brilliant - https://brave-bold-brilliant.com/
Brave, Bold, Brilliant podcast series - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/brave-bold-brilliant-podcast/id1524278970
ABOUT THE GUEST
Fabien Chesnais is a seasoned hospitality leader and the General Manager of Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island. Since overseeing the resort’s pre-opening in 2021, he has played a pivotal role in its rapid success, achieving profitability within just three months. Under his leadership, the resort has earned over 18 prestigious awards, solidifying its reputation as one of the UAE’s top luxury destinations.
With a strong background in luxury hospitality, Fabien has held key leadership roles across Accor and Hilton properties in the Middle East, including as Cluster General Manager for Mövenpick properties in Dubai. His expertise spans revenue management, project execution, and guest experience innovation. As a member of Accor’s elite Alchemist Project, he also contributes to shaping F&B strategies across the GCC.
A champion of sustainability and inclusivity, Fabien has implemented eco-friendly initiatives such as in-house glass bottling, grey water reuse, and local sourcing. He has also enhanced family-focused experiences at the resort, introducing creative kids’ programs and entertainment options. Fluent in Arabic, he continues to push the boundaries of excellence in the hospitality industry.
@movenpickalmarjan (Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok)
Youtube & LinkedIn Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
ABOUT THE HOST
Jeannette Linfoot is a highly regarded senior executive, property investor, board advisor, and business mentor with over 30 years of global professional business experience across the travel, leisure, hospitality, and property sectors. Having bought, ran, and sold businesses all over the world, Jeannette now has a portfolio of her own businesses and also advises and mentors other business leaders to drive forward their strategies as well as their own personal development.
Jeannette is a down-to-earth leader, a passionate champion for diversity & inclusion, and a huge advocate of nurturing talent so every person can unleash their full potential and live their dreams.
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Podcast Description
Jeannette Linfoot talks to incredible people about their experiences of being Brave, Bold & Brilliant, which have allowed them to unleash their full potential in business, their careers, and life in general. From the boardroom tables of ‘big’ international businesses to the dining room tables of entrepreneurial start-ups, how to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities and take risks, whilst staying ‘true’ to yourself is the order of the day