INTERVIEW - PHILIPPE KRONBERG, RESORT GENERAL MANAGER, SHANGRI-LA RESORT, MUSCAT: "I BELIEVE IN BEING PRESENT WITH BOTH THE GUESTS AND THE TEAM" (Oman)
Shangri-La Muscat embarked on an exciting new journey as it welcomed Philippe Kronberg as its new Resort General Manager earlier this year. . |
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INTERVIEW - PHILIPPE KRONBERG, RESORT GENERAL MANAGER, SHANGRI-LA RESORT, MUSCAT: "I BELIEVE IN BEING PRESENT WITH BOTH THE GUESTS AND THE TEAM" (Oman)
Shangri-La Muscat embarked on an exciting new journey as it welcomed Philippe Kronberg as its new Resort General Manager earlier this year. . |
Category: Middle East - Oman - Careers
- Interviews and portraits
- Career - Interviews - Industry leaders
Interview made by Sonia Taourghi on 2024-10-11
 Philippe Kronberg, General Manager, Shangri-La Resort, Muscat
Photo credit © Shangri-La Group
With over three decades in luxury hospitality, Kronberg is no stranger to the world of high-end resorts. The French-Australian dual citizen has honed his skills across the globe, from the iconic Ritz Hotel in London to leadership roles in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Turkey. His most recent success at Shangri-La Sydney, where he led the hotel to its highest revenue since opening, speaks volumes about his commercial acumen and leadership prowess.
But there's more to Kronberg than his impressive resume. A former paratrooper with a private pilot's licence and a passion for aerobatic flying, he brings an adventurous spirit to his role that aligns perfectly with Shangri-La's ethos of combining luxury with local elegance.
As a family man dedicated to charitable causes, Kronberg embodies the blend of professional excellence and personal warmth that guests have come to expect from the Shangri-La brand. Now in his 4th General Manager role with the group, Philippe Kronberg shares his story and his plans for the breathtaking Omani complex and teams.
Journal des Palaces: What are the key influences and milestones that shaped your journey in hospitality?
Philippe Kronberg: My journey in hospitality has been shaped by a broad range of experiences across different functions – from F&B, finance, rooms, and operations to commercial. I’ve had the opportunity to work on the pre-opening phases of hotels in China and Thailand, which allowed me to bring a strategic, innovative approach to managing both people and operations. It all began at 16 when I worked as a waiter and bartender in Cannes. That’s where I first fell in love with this industry. Later, my studies at hotel school exposed me to over 100 different nationalities, deepening my understanding of the global hospitality landscape. From there, I worked with leading brands like Ritz London, Hilton, and Shangri-La. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who shaped my leadership approach and personal growth.
What attracted you to luxury hospitality?
My exposure to luxury hospitality started early at the Sofitel in Cannes when I was 16, and later, at the Ritz London, where I realised how much I valued creating elevated guest experiences. Luxury hospitality goes beyond selling a room or serving a meal – it’s about curating memorable experiences that resonate with guests on a personal level. It’s the details, the stories, and the moments that stay with them long after their stay, and that’s what I love about it.
This is your 4th General Manager role with Shangri-La. What keeps you so loyal to the brand?
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of leading Shangri-La hotels in Fujairah, Istanbul, Sydney, and now Muscat. It’s the brand’s commitment to its people and its culture. Shangri-La is an Asian-owned brand, with a unique way of running hotels – it’s more personal, more human, and more focused on our people. It’s synonymous with understated luxury, and there’s a genuine commitment to putting people first, both guests and employees.
What attracted you to Oman? How did you settle into your new surroundings?
Having lived and worked across nine different countries, I’ve always been drawn to destinations rich in culture and natural beauty, and Oman is just that. I was familiar with the region from my time in Istanbul and other Middle Eastern countries, but Oman is unique. The warmth of its people, the authenticity of its culture, and its breathtaking landscapes – from the mountains to the sea – are remarkable. I’ve been here for three months and have already explored Wadi Shab, the souks, the fish markets and even got my Omani boat licence! It’s been an exciting start to my journey here.
How do you think your leadership will influence the resort operations?
My leadership philosophy revolves around people and culture. I believe in being present with both the guests and the team, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ownership at every level. Success is a team effort, and I rely on my leadership team to take full responsibility for their areas while we collectively drive the business forward. One of our latest initiatives, for example, is the “From Sea to Plate” experience, which highlights our commitment to unique guest offerings, and I’m happy to see how we’re driving this at all levels. Ultimately, it’s about creating memorable experiences that elevate our guests' stay and keep them coming back.
What are your biggest challenges when recruiting in Oman?
Retaining and developing local talent is both a challenge and a priority. Shangri-La has a strong 20-year presence in Oman, and we’re dedicated to building on that by offering training and career development opportunities for Omanis and expats. The hospitality sector here is evolving, particularly with new luxury hotels entering the market, which elevates the expectations for talent and service standards.
What advice would you give to someone pursuing a career in luxury hospitality?
Hospitality is not just a job – it’s a lifestyle. It’s a rewarding journey where you meet people from all over the world, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create meaningful experiences. My advice is to stay open-minded, focus on the details, and always listen to your guests. If you’re passionate about making people happy, and you approach your work with heart, hospitality can be an incredibly fulfilling career. It’s all about building connections and leaving a lasting impact on those you serve.
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