Michel Bouic — ‘everything in life happens for a reason’

Michel Bouic, 37, took up the reigns as general manager of The Marine Hotel in Hermanus, at the end of last year. Mr Bouic joined The Liz McGrath Collection after 15 years at Bushmans Kloof in the Cederberg.

Born into a French Mauritian family, with a professional chef as father, hosting and entertaining came naturally to Mr Bouic, as he developed a keen interest in the hospitality industry from an early age. He studied at the International Hotel School and spent the first two years of his career as hospitality trainee at The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa in Cape Town. Staying within the Red Carnation Collection, he completed his training at Bushmans Kloof and developed a solid track record in the luxury hospitality industry, steadily climbing the career ladder to hold various management positions. At The Marine, his goal is to further enhance the luxury guest experience by means of motivating and inspiring his team to reach even greater heights.

How do you see the hospitality industry in South Africa?

At present, I see the hospitality industry recovering and thriving after a very difficult two years. Travel is back, our international tourists are back, and the domestic market is travelling too. There was an amazing ‘boom’ in the hospitality industry since August last year, which was wonderful to see. I believe that hospitality, going forward, will be stronger, bigger and better than before. We have some new travel trends emerging in the industry and every month we see more, and different nationalities visiting South Africa. This in turn brings a whole new dynamic to the type of food and drink required by our international guests. Social Media has also played a huge role in the way that properties around SA are promoted and marketed, as the world can be viewed in the palm of your hand. From searching which hotels, resorts and lodges to visit, to booking tours and accommodation, and making restaurant reservations — all at the touch of a button.

How long have you been in the hospitality sector?

I have been in the hospitality industry for 18 years.

What do you enjoy most about the industry?

I enjoy interacting with and pleasing my guests — in any way or form. Bringing ‘luxury’ to the guest is what my philosophy is all about. It is about the experience we create for our guests. The personal attention given to each individual and the time spent talking and really getting to know them. Building that relationship and rapport with the guest, is very important these days as people often return to a property because of the staff they meet and interact with.

Where did your career begin?

My career began at the International Hotel School in Cape Town; it led me to my first position at The 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa in 2005. There I did my three-year training internship until 2007. From there I was transferred to the sister property, the Relais & Chateaux lodge in the Cederberg, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat. I immediately fell in love with the Cederberg air, the staff, the mountains, and the serene environment. I was at

Bushmans Kloof for a total of 15 years. I held several positions there, ranging from assistant front office manager; assistant food & beverage manager; Koro Lodge Private Villa manager and food and beverage manager; to operations manager and then deputy general manager. In November of 2022, I moved to Hermanus and took over as general manager at The Marine Hotel, part of the Liz McGrath Collection, which is my first general manager role.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in this sector?

The biggest change I have noticed is the demand from our guests for really top-class service and food. There is so much competition out there nowadays, one has to be on top of the trend list and be ahead of all your competitors. In addition, you need to provide a level of service that guests want to keep coming back for.

Were you always involved in this sector?

Yes, from a very young age. My father was a professional chef by trade.

Are you married?

Yes, my wife’s name is Cecile.

What role does your family play in your life?

Family plays a very important role. I have three children and everything that I do is for them. The long hours, the days spent at work over public holidays when the hotel is at its busiest, is all for them. Education and a happy life is what I want for my children.

What would you change in your life if you could when looking back?

Nothing, I have always been a believer that everything in life happens for a reason, and I don’t have regrets. I have made mistakes, but I have always learnt from them.

Do you have any hobbies?

Yes, I do. I love fishing and any active leisure sport. I also enjoy swimming and all swimming activities. Any unusual ones? I do have one. I enjoy colouring in, in my children’s books and in the ‘adult’ ones that you now get on the market. It is a method for me to de-stress. Very important in this industry!

Do you play any sports?

Only with my children. This includes soccer, tennis, dance, ballet, frisbee and cricket. More will come I’m sure, as my children are still young.

What are your favourite sports?

Rugby and soccer.

Who is your favourite sportsman/ woman?

I have many favourites. To name a few — Joost van der Westhuizen, Gary Teichmann, Bryan Habana, Os du Randt, Malcom Marx.

What do you do for leisure?

I spend as much time as I can with my family. Hiking with the children and taking them to the beach.

What is your secret to success?

Hard work, perseverance and uplifting the staff you surround yourself with.

What has been your biggest challenge in this sector?

Adapting to change and getting my team to do the same.

What is your pet hate?

Not being able to execute tasks perfectly. I am a bit of a perfectionist and borderline OCD!

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why?

Mauritius, when I just finished school. It was my first experience abroad. I was with my family and I had also met many members of my extended family for the first time.

What type of holiday would you avoid at all costs?

None. I love a good holiday with my family. Doesn’t matter where it is, as long as we are together.

If you could be anyone for the day who would you be and why?

Very difficult question. If I had to be honest, nobody else really. I am very happy just being myself.

What is your favourite city?

London. I visited twice and just loved the vibe, the mix of people and the history of the city. Everything, from the old pubs, to the stories told by the locals.

What is your favourite book, film, TV programme?

Any non-fictional book, film or TV programme that is based on true events.

How do you relax?

Listening to music, fishing and sitting in silence when I have the opportunity.

What is your favourite food?

Curry.

What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done?

As a youngster, I jumped off a railway line, on a bridge, in KZN, .

Who is your role model?

My grandparents are my role models. My grandmother raised seven children with my grandfather. He worked two jobs most of his life. Then raised a further three children (myself and my two brothers). They inspired me then and still do now.

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Hard work pays off. You need to have a deep passion to execute genuine hospitality. It won’t happen overnight. You must start at the bottom and work your way up. It is the only way to really understand what makes a good hotelier. Good experience is needed in all areas in hospitality. Ask questions and always challenge the system. Never accept defeat and never give up. Don’t be ashamed or scared to make mistakes. Fight for what you believe is right and stick to your decision. Do your best to encourage, coach, support and teach your team around you. They are your biggest supporters and the people you rely on to get you to where you want to go. Never burn your bridges, forgive and move on. Learn from mistakes made. Find mentors in the industry and learn from them. Always make time for yourself and your loved ones. Above all else, be honest in the workplace.

What is your dream for the future?

To be a CEO/MD/COO for a boutique, bespoke, privately owned hospitality business where I can develop my skills and teach all that I have learned in this ever-changing industry.