Meet the new GM in town

MANILA, Philippines - Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is adding a new chapter to its success story with the appointment of its new general manager Goran Aleks.

At 33, Aleks is hardly what anybody would describe as a newbie. Despite his young age, Aleks has already chalked up an impressive list of achievements in the international hotel industry. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is just about ready to add itself to that list.

As soon as he assumed leadership of the famed hotel, Aleks has made clear his vision for Sofitel Manila. He says, “My vision is to maintain Sofitel’s equity as the city’s premiere luxury hotel, and to soar to greater heights in the hospitality industry by upholding the highest standards in fine cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and delightful service that exceed expectation.”

He reveals that Sofitel is currently going through a repositioning as Sofitel Luxury Hotel, being the only true five-star French brand. The intention really is to further infuse their guests’ experience with the hotel’s unique French touch, and immerse them in Sofitel’s brand of hospitality — but without losing the cultural environment that it caters to.

Having spent over 15 years in the hospitality industry, the German-born Aleks took up assignments in various Sofitel properties in Thailand, France, and Australia. In his opinion, the brand is always innovating and evolving.

“I have always said that we are great in food and beverage, accommodations, entertainment, among others,” he continues. “For 2010, we will be implementing even higher standards of luxury. We want our guests to feel that life is truly magnifique! In the world of luxury, the smallest details count.”

By details, he is referring to the signature Sofitel scent, the exquisite interiors, the splendid MyBed, and of course, “that glamorous French touch, with guests feeling like kings and queens.”

He also takes pride in the fact that Sofitel is the only resort hotel in the city where one can enjoy “the most glorious sunrises and sunsets, as well as the most beautiful landscaping and greenery.”

“We want our guests to always feel delighted when they are here. It is always our pleasure to provide them with a holistic luxurious experience, from start to finish,” he stresses.

For Aleks, luxury is defined as a state “when you are surrounded by things that flow to you very smoothly, effortlessly, and efficiently, when everything you can sense is in complete harmony”.

With this new assignment, Aleks is giddy with excitement. Having been to the country before, he is looking forward to discovering and learning more about the Filipino culture.

“When I arrived here, my wife, daughter, and I never felt like foreigners. In fact, it was the Christmas season on the day of my arrival. I was overwhelmed by the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people. That factor alone makes my adjustment to my new environment so much more pleasurable,” he shares. “We are definitely happy to be here.”

At the rate things are happening at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, their guests are bound to be echoing his last statement.