New GM on the Island

We got in touch with Benoit-Joseph Metanomski, Mövenpick Bahrain’s new General Manager to find out what’s in store for the iconic property.

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Benoit Metanomski brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and passion to his new role. An explorer of cultures and vibrant food scenes, the new GM is ready to introduce a slew of projects to enhance guest experiences at the hotel.

Congratulations on your appointment as the General Manager of this iconic hotel! What do you plan to achieve as the General Manager of this property?

I am truly impressed by the hotel’s track record in guest satisfaction, its recent renovation, and the exceptional quality of food and ambience it offers. A recurring guest in the lobby recently shared a photograph from 2013, which reminded me of the hotel’s iconic status as one of the best in Bahrain.

During my time with the team over the past few weeks, I have identified areas where we can further enhance our operations. My goal is to enhance the overall experience of this hotel, making it exceptional in various areas such as the spa, poolside, gym, and particularly in our F&B outlets. By doing so, we will create unforgettable memories for our valued guests.

What new projects are coming up at the hotel? How will they impact guest experiences at the hotel?

We have several exciting new projects in the pipeline at our hotel. In terms of F&B, we are planning to introduce new offerings and theme nights, aiming to elevate the overall vibes and dining experiences for our guests. In addition, we are dedicated to introducing a unique lifestyle experience that centres around our fitness centre and pool area.

At the heart of our hotel are our dedicated staff, whom we affectionately refer to as “heartists”. Their passion and commitment play a crucial role in creating memorable guest experiences. By investing in their training and development, we aim to further enhance the level of service and personal attention our heartists provide to our valued guests.

Our aim is to differentiate ourselves from a typical airport hotel. We want to showcase our breathtaking landscape, stunning views, and inviting poolside while highlighting the distinctive aspects that set us apart. Our guests are at the heart of our focus, and we are fully committed to ensuring their experience with us is exceptional in every possible way.

How will you benchmark your success at this property? Guest experience is a key benchmark for evaluating the performance and success of our property. We rely on a set of indicators, including guest feedback gathered through various tools, to ensure we consistently deliver a satisfying experience. While guest experience score is a primary indicator, we also prioritize employee satisfaction. Our team regularly assesses their working experience, as a happy team leads to happy guests.

In addition to guest and employee satisfaction, we consider financial sustainability as a critical factor. By monitoring these aspects, we can effectively measure our performance and make informed decisions to enhance the overall guest experience and maintain our success.

What do you consider to be the biggest challenges and opportunities, facing Bahrain’s luxury hospitality sector in the coming years?

The luxury hospitality sector in Bahrain is currently experiencing significant growth, with hotels undergoing renovations, rebranding, and new properties emerging. With this expansion, one of the biggest challenges and opportunities lies in effectively differentiating our offerings from the competition and further marketing ourselves.

In terms of opportunities, Bahrain is actively working on improving access to tourist attractions. The introduction of several projects aimed at enhancing the island’s tourist offerings will undoubtedly add value to the hotel industry.

By capitalizing on these opportunities, we can further elevate the luxury hospitality sector in Bahrain, providing exceptional experiences for both domestic and international guests.

What are some of your favourite places to visit and things to do on the island?

Bahrain offers a plethora of incredible places to visit and things to do that truly capture the essence of this beautiful island. One of the places I had the pleasure of visiting and enjoyed was Adliya, a dynamic and bustling district known for its outstanding culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. Exploring the diverse culinary scene there is an absolute delight.

I am also excited about the prospect of exploring the diverse tourist sites on the island. One notable attraction is the renowned Awali Golf Course, which holds a special charm as it is built on sand. Additionally, I plan to visit Bahrain Fort, explore Jarada Island, and experience the thrill of BIC karting. I am also looking forward to attending upcoming events and immersing myself in the vibrant atmosphere they offer.

What brought you to the hospitality industry?

My journey in the hospitality industry began during my time studying

Management Finance in France. While pursuing my degree, I discovered a passion for teaching tennis at my local club, and the experience was truly fulfilling. This sparked my curiosity and desire to delve deeper into the world of hospitality.

To gain comprehensive knowledge and expertise in the field, I made the decision to pursue my Masters at Vatel France, a renowned institution specializing in hospitality education. This provided me with a solid foundation and understanding of the industry.

I embarked on my professional career in the front office, working at two distinct hotels in Paris for a period of four years. Seeking new experiences and cultural immersion, I ventured to Vietnam, Australia, Cambodia, and Thailand, exploring diverse cultures and seizing various opportunities within the hospitality sector.

These enriching experiences have shaped my passion for hospitality, allowing me to continuously grow and learn from different perspectives. The industry’s dynamic nature, coupled with the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life, continues to inspire and drive my dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences. n