Managing one of the most beautiful and luxurious premises in Egypt as Cairo Marriott Hotel is not an easy task but for Urlich Huth it is enjoyable, challenging and stimulating. Urlich Huth is a German citizen who appreciates and understands the Egyptian Culture deeply. He is never satisfied with what is achieved, always seeking more and more success…
1-How long have you been here at the Cairo Marriott Hotel?
I have spent 8 wonderful years, 5 outstanding months and 14 exciting days here.
You may have noticed that I do count the years that I have spent at the Cairo Marriott being at the heart of both the social and the business center of Egypt has made me not only understand but greatly appreciate the Egyptian Culture. It is now a part of me that will always remain and bring me back for years to come in the future.
2-Tell us about the ongoing renovations at the Cairo Marriott Hotel and when do we expect it to be completed?
The renovation at the Cairo Marriott hotel is a land mark project not only for the company portfolio but also for the tourism industry in Egypt and the historic magnificence I grew to love.
We have already completed 70% of the rooms’ renovation; our rooms now reflect the new look of our palace and offer our guests the luxury level they have come to expect from the Cairo Marriott Palace. We will also launch to the discerning travelers the opportunity to stay in one of our Royal Suites, a new feature to this hotel designed to be not only the largest in town but also the most luxurious suites.
We are also undertaking another major renovation, which is the 3 lobbies of the hotel; Zamalek, Gezirah, and the Main entrance, we promised to provide an arrival experience intended to wow every guest in our hotel.
Our outdoor facilities will also paint the perfect picture as we intended to landscape our gardens and restore it to its original palatial glory.
Our Egyptian Nights will continue to open its doors to its loyal regular customers, yet with a new deco meant to allow them to savor its authentic character.
We did not forget Omar Khayyam Casino, which will be totally renovated from top to bottom.
It is our conviction that our service mission is to delight and pamper our guest; with this in mind we will launch a new concept to this market in collaboration with our owner EGOTH, which is (A hotel within the hotel) from the 12 till the 20th floor, a special rooms category will be created distinguished by the highest level of service provided; Up scale amenities and services, fancy wake up calls, exclusive butler service. Expected to be finished and launched to public at end of 2008.
3- Tell us about your Career and what made you choose the hotel industry?
My grand grandfather started his business as a baker, and I carried his names, after several years of success, this business had been expanded to be a small hotel, owned by my father, and that time I was only 12 years old yet I decided to work in the restaurant and got hooked and loved it, and since then I am still working in the hotels’ industry.
4-The Cairo Marriott Hotel is considered to be one of the most beautiful premises in Egypt as it was previously a palace, What is your strategy to keep the service standard as good as possible?
Never be satisfied with what is achieved, this is history; always aim to be number one, never stop till you are there and commit not only your time and effort but always your heart. I will allow myself here to quote “Jean Todt”, Formula one team leader for Ferrari, who once was asked, if this was a perfect season?? - when the top driver “Schumacher” became the world champion on his 12 races out of 17- he said (( if you have 2 cars in each race, and you came in 17 times 1st and 17 times 2nd, that is the perfect season!!))
Putting my beliefs in to practical steps we in the Cairo Marriott hotel have successfully implemented, yes is the answer what is the question philosophy.
5-Do you consider the hotel a corporate or a touristic one?
We are a historical hotel, which inspires guests to stay with us; we have been able to create a unique blend of corporate clients and touristic guests by offering both their specific services to enable them to conduct business but still relax and enjoy.
Adding to this; our location has allowed us to be centrally located in the heart of the business and diplomatic area, and we are an oasis of peace and tranquility a midst the bustling city.
6-What is one of the biggest challenges you face as a GM?
Being an ambassador promoting Egypt as a destination to the professional international destination management companies, their sense of security regarding the Middle East has been an obstacle of a considerable influence that we are unable to overcome till now. Incentive buyers are still rather hesitant to consider Egypt as a potential incentive destination.
7-Of all the countries you have worked in, which would you say you got the most out of?
I lived in 3 countries; Germany my home country, USA, and Egypt… Germany, where I learned and gained knowledge, The states where I acquired interpersonal skills which allowed me to accept and work with other cultures, and Egypt where I utilized all my knowledge and skills. Egypt is a fertile field where my knowledge, skills and experience have been proven to grow and flourish, which has led to ultimate satisfaction.
8-How would you compare Egypt to other countries you’ve worked in as far as tourism is concerned?
Egypt is a country with lot of potential and opportunities, where you can find the sun and fun on the many beaches, Religious and cultural sites are overwhelming, incomparable historical heritage, desert safari a thrilling adventure, and recently focusing on specialized types of tourism such as golf where you can enjoy 360 days of sunshine, medical tourism is also emerging.
I believe that the diversity of this destination blended with the warmth and security of its people provides an unmatched authenticity.
9-How do you see the customer service level in Egypt?
I am glad that you have been asked this question; I think there are few hotels here that can compete internationally, but to look at the service standard in Egypt analytically, I would say that systems procedures and standards are there yet the awareness of its significance and importance of following them is a learning that the culture needs to adjust to.
Developing local talents should be the primary concern of all international and governmental organizations in this country.
10- Do you apply the Mystery Shopping concept at your hotel, if yes, what are the benefits you gain out of it?
Yes we do apply what we call the brand standard audit to comply with our international branding. It is done annually, with very strict criteria, and very detailed oriented approach. Which make us maintain the standard of quality and keep our customer more secured and satisfied.
|
