P RO F I L E
Create spaces for people to be themselves and allow people to operate in a genuine non-politically motivated working environment. Allowing people to fail but with positive intent. Create a space where people can dream and innovate without the yoke of pressure. Allowing people to have fun and just be natural with and to themselves. Would you provide an overview of each of the properties you oversee? Three of them are fully operating properties: two are city hotels (Houston and Seattle) and the other is our Punta Mita (pure paradise filled with Punta Mita Warriors!) the others are at various stages prior to opening: Our second property in Los Cabos known as Cabo del Sol in the corridor where the most authentic and vibrant part of the whole destination is in my humble opinion. One more in Tamarindo, the Mexican Pacific, and close to Careyes and Comala, a couple of towns with a great tradition in the Art scene in Mexico (Plastic Arts and Literature) this one is getting ready to open very soon in the first half of 2022. Another fascinating project is the new concept we are about to announce in Punta Mita: something vastly different: all I can say is this product is no-where in the Americas, and it will be up and running soon next to Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita. A private island in Belize, and one more in the Mayan Riviera. The brand trusts me to explore these possibilities in Mexico and Latin America, and I enjoy every part of the process. It’s like uncovering the magic of the people and the space and place.
Q+A with John O’Sullivan, RVPGM Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita Sitting down with John, was one of the sincerest pleasures I have had in a very long time. His passion for life not only radiates from him but is manifested throughout the incredible resort in which he is the gatekeeper. What motivated you to begin a career in the hospitality industry? Growing up in rural Ireland, I was always absorbed by seeing tourists from different countries walking around my town and the “look” they had in their eyes; the adventure of sorts that they were on. From the age of 8, I can remember lying on my back and seeing the jet fumes of the flights from Europe flying to the US across the west coast of Ireland and wondering where they were going and what they were going to eat when they got there; and so, it started, my love for traveling which catalyzed my desire to work in Hotels from the age of 12. You have been with Four Seasons Resorts for 26 years. What is the most important lesson you have learned about which circumstances create the perfect environment for growth and success? 78 | UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM | WINTER 2022
What is your favorite aspect about Four Seasons Punta Mita? How do you feel it differs from other properties? The property has been fully renovated, it looks fresh and updated, it is settled in the most – topographically - interesting location in Punta Mita. The true differentiating factor is our staff; our warriors who truly make the difference each and every day. We have had this team for many years, and they know how Luxury Resort Hospitality should be delivered, and they execute it at a consummate natural level. That is something only Punta Mita has in its purity. Each Four Seasons reflects the hotel’s city in the design and experience. For visitors, how is this property an extension of the Punta Mita experience? Everywhere you go within Four Seasons Punta Mita you can find something that speaks about Mexico. Its colors, its architecture, its culture, its food, its music, and everything is directed to the most iconic thing in Punta Mita: The Pacific and its sunsets. Besides that, we are located near some beautiful authentic Mexican towns, that reinforce the true Mexican experience our guests long when they come to the destination. Have you had any mentors? Who are they? I have some interesting people that punctuate my life more as role models than mentors. They would be Isadore Sharp who is the founder of Four Seasons and whose “Golden Rule” legacy is something we try and live each day with; just treat people as you wish to be treated. Richard Bran-son also intrigues me in the manner in which he operates and surrounds himself with non-like-minded people and thus increases the bandwidth of more disparate outcomes of possibilities. What is the signature philosophy that differentiates a Four Seasons Resort from any other? It is part of the brand’s DNA, every property is permanently celebrating
