Badrutt’s Palace has announced the appointment of Richard Leuenberger to the role of managing director.
Leuenberger joined the Badrutt’s team initially as director of food and beverage in 2008 and again as general manager in November 2016 following a three-year stint with Shangri-La and Ritz Carlton in Asia.
In his new role, he will now oversee all department heads to ensure the smooth running of the hotel.
The appointment injects a fresh sense of vitality at the most senior level to this iconic palace hotel, ensuring it retains the history and charm of over 12 decades of legendary hospitality while celebrating the needs and wants of tomorrow’s guests.
Richard succeeds current chief executive, Yves Gardiol, who has now left the hotel.
The move signals a wider restructure of the hotel’s senior management, streamlining operations and relations between the board and the hotel.
As managing director, Richard Leunenberger is responsible for all operational activities including the divisions of rooms, food and beverage, sales and marketing, human resources and accounting.
Leuenberger said: “Badrutt’s Palace is one of the best hotels in the world.
“Every day I’m amazed by all the stories that have been created here and am inspired time and time again by the charm and history of such an iconic hotel.
“To be able to shape the future of this magical place is a dream come true and I couldn’t be happier about it.
“I am ready to take on this interesting challenge and to lead the operations together with our great team.”