The Banking Executive Magazine - June 2025 Issue

InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut assignment—not only because of the iconic status of the Phoenicia Hotel, but also due to the cultural depth of Lebanon. Phoenicia isn’t just a hotel—it is a living institution. Join- ing it was a professional and per- sonal privilege, and I saw in it an opportunity to contribute to some- thing much larger than hospitality: a symbol of continuity, optimism, and national pride. Q: HOWWOULD YOU DEFINE THE SPIRIT OR DNA OF THE PHOENICIA HOTEL? WHAT MAKES IT STAND OUT IN THE REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL HOSPITALITY LANDSCAPE? A: Phoenicia is undeniably unique. It is a destination in its own right. Guests often refer to it simply as "the Phoenicia," without needing to men- tion the brand. That alone reflects its stature. Established in 1961 and rejuvenated with a $100 million investment in 2000, Phoenicia has witnessed and withstood significant developments. Its presence extends beyond its phys- ical structure—it is woven into the social, cultural, and even economic fabric of Beirut. Many describe it as a benchmark: when Phoenicia is thriving, there’s a sense that the country is on a positive path. This symbolic role comes with responsi- bilities that we embrace daily. What truly defines its DNA is a combination of understated luxury, timeless elegance, and a deeply human-centered service philosophy. It’s not about opulence alone, but about how we make people feel. Our people—many of whom have been with us for decades—are the heartbeat of the hotel. Q: CONSIDERING THE LEGACY AND HIGH EXPECTATIONS SURROUNDING PHOENICIA, HOW DO YOU BALANCE ITS HISTORICAL IDENTITY WITH THE NEED FOR MODERNIZATION AND COMPETITIVENESS? A: That balance is indeed delicate. On one hand, we have loyal guests who’ve known Phoenicia for decades. On the other, we must ap- peal to younger, tech-savvy travelers with different expectations. We are preparing to embark on a comprehensive renovation starting February 2026, a process that will span three to four years and encom- pass all three towers, including the residences and various public spaces. However, we approach this transformation with great care. The essence of Phoenicia—its architec- tural character, its spirit, its service culture—must be preserved. We’re updating our design with a focus on authenticity and comfort rather than fleeting trends. It’s about enhancing the guest journey, not overwhelming it with complexity. Similarly, our food and beverage of- ferings are evolving to reflect new culinary expectations while celebrat- ing our rich tradition. We aim to be more than a hotel—we want to re- main a symbol of Beirut’s dynamism. the BANKING EXECUTIVE 18 ISSUE 198 JUNE 2025