PIERRE BARTHES takes the helm as the General Manager and Area Vice President Operations of the MANDARIN ORIENTAL in Hong Kong. In possibly the most challenging role of his career, he holds forth on how rising expectations of Asia’s most discerning guests are changing the landscape of hospitality, forever.

Challenge has dogged hospitality icon and industry stalwart Pierre Barthes forever. Over his long trek up the steep cliffs of success, he’s battled fires, competitors, trends, egos, scarcity, talent crunches etc. and come out of all of it stronger – a solutions man, for all seasons.

Today, after taking the reputation of the Mandarin Oriental in Pudong, Shanghai to new heights, he takes the reins as Area Vice President Operations.

Following a US$150 million renovation in 2006, this landmark hotel was completely transformed and was able to offer guests 21st-century oriental luxury and modern technology, whilst retaining its much-loved character and soul.

“As we are about to commence a major refurbishment, the intent will be to rejuvenate this legendary landmark and ensure its position as the most sought-after address in Central.”

Pierre Barthes: “As we are about to commence a major refurbishment,
the intent will be to rejuvenate this legendary landmark and ensure its
position as the most sought-after address in Central.”

Competitive Edge

Barthes accepts that although his competitors have bigger event space to accommodate more MICE business, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong remains the hotel of choice for any event or conference in the city because of its ideal location and award-winning service and quality of food and beverage.

Situated in Central, which is the heart of Hong Kong’s commercial and financial district, the hotel is just a short walk away from shopping, dining and nightlife attractions.

The airport is only 35 minutes by car or a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the Airport Express train, and public transport is conveniently nearby.

“At Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, we present a collection of 10 individually unique restaurants and bars, including three that hold Michelin Star status, seasonal menus as well as celebrated guest chefs and mixologists throughout the year to excite our guests.”

“I am aware that Hong Kong has new hotels opening which will have a knock-on effect on the shrinking pool of qualified staff. To attract, retain and motivate our colleagues, the hotel continues to review and enhance its total offering from reduced working hours to address concerns on work-life balance, to supplemental incentive plans as well as other company benefits. In addition, we recognize the importance of, and continually invest in employee training and development to support their personal and professional aspirations as well as to exceed the standards expected by our guests. We believe that staff is the lifeblood of any great hotel and I have always encouraged, nurtured and rewarded talent.”

“Service-wise, our reputation as an industry trend setter is undeniable. For instance, we were the first hotel in Hong Kong with a Business Centre, have Technology Butlers available 24 hours a day, and employ a dedicated social media manager. We understood the important role that social media would play from the start and we continue to use such channels to produce and share content, interact with our guests, and collaborate with online media for brand awareness and build customer loyalty. Recently we revamped our website to cater to the changing needs of our digitally-savvy guests and have other exciting projects in the pipeline.”

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Hotel Mandarin Suite Presidential Living Room

Reputation Sells

Since 1963, the hotel has achieved its premier position among luxury hotels internationally and it is for this reason that travellers are attracted to this legend today.

As the first and flagship hotel of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, it is situated in the centre of Hong Kong and holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. It is home to a legendary  team, 10 outstanding restaurants and bars, an award-winning spa, barber, salon, 13 meeting rooms and a 24-hour business and fitness centre.

With round-the-clock services, the hotel pulsates at all times and functions smoothly, living up to its legendary world-renowned status.

“We have a team of professionals who work closely with travel agents from around the world, and we only partner with key online channels. Because our goal is to drive guests to book direct, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has just launched a new guest recognition programme called Fans of MO. This will incentivize our guests to book through our website where an elevated range of exclusive privileges will be offered at any of our hotels worldwide.”

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Hotel Howarth Suite

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Hotel Harbour View Suite Bathroom

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Hotel The Mandarin Cake Shop

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Hotel Man Wah

“The hotel has been delighting guests with its award-winning service and impressive facilities for over 50 years and is looking to plan, design and implement a number of renovation strategies.” – PIERRE BARTHES

Look! We’re Changing!

“The hotel has been delighting guests with its award-winning service and impressive facilities for over 50 years and is looking to plan, design and implement a number of renovation strategies,” he adds.

According to Barthes, the total makeover will include 501 guest rooms and suites, 10 food and beverage outlets, function space, the reception and other public areas sometime in the future.

“The hotel’s legendary service will continue to be delivered by its loyal team who are empowered to enrich, surprise, and delight guest experiences. We believe that our award-winning service and impressive facilities have been, and will continue to be, the key to our success. The Mandarin takes pride in its total quality approach to deliver what we know our guests need and expect. Our goal is to become more approachable as a luxury hotel catering to today’s world travellers whilst continuing to deliver impeccable service with genuine concern for guests. To live on in the hearts of our fans we have to stay worthy.”

For additional information, please visit www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong

Hong Kong’s Business Leaders share market and interest intelligence in the pages of HKMVC 2019

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