Chic Icon had the pleasure of interviewing Fernando Rojo, the General Manager of Corinthia St Petersburg Hotel. With a rich background in hospitality and a passion for enhancing guest experiences, Rojo brings a unique blend of international expertise and local knowledge to his role. Having previously held key positions in renowned hotels, he is well-equipped to lead Corinthia St Petersburg hotel during a period of significant growth, with plans for expansion and a commitment to delivering exceptional service. Below is a glimpse into our conversation with him.
What inspired you to take on the role of General Manager at Corinthia St. Petersburg hotel?
I have visited St. Petersburg five times for both leisure and business, and I fell in love with this stunning city. When I heard that Corinthia was seeking an experienced GM with a Russian background, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to join a reputable hotel company during a period of growth, with plans for four new locations in the coming months. Additionally, my family encouraged me to return home (smiles).
Can you share your vision for enhancing guest experiences at the hotel?
Recently, there has been a trend toward customized guest experiences. In the coming years, we need to strive for genuinely extraordinary experiences that guests cannot anticipate. Our goal is to create memorable details that guests will want to share with their friends and family. By enhancing these experiences, the notion of feeling “at home away from home” will evolve, as discerning guests seek experiences that surpass their everyday lives.
Who is your main international clientele right now?
Our primary guests come from China, the Middle East, and North Africa, with some visitors from Latin America, albeit in smaller numbers.
What strategies do you plan to implement to attract more international visitors?
We are introducing amenities tailored to these guests, including in-room features, food and beverage options, and entertainment. We are also translating our website into the primary languages of emerging international markets and implementing communication software to eliminate language barriers during their stay. Additionally, offering payment systems in their home currencies is essential.
How do you intend to integrate local culture into the hotel’s offerings?
We are collaborating with local partners to provide products that tell original stories. Some ongoing projects include bath and living room accessories for suites and customized porcelain from the oldest factory in town. Culinary offerings will also feature local traditional dishes with a chef’s twist.
What challenges do you foresee in the hospitality industry, and how will you address them?
The main challenges are talent recruitment and retention due to an overall shortage of employees in the hospitality sector. Additionally, some products require lengthy import processes. We are working on solutions alongside fellow hoteliers but need broader support from authorities for a comprehensive strategy. With current low unemployment rates, we recognize that IT and remote work are increasingly appealing to younger generations.
What changes are you preparing for Corinthia St Petersburg in the near future?
We plan to revamp our restaurant outlets and bar scene at the hotel to attract both locals and in-house guests. We will also introduce new amenities for our top-tier suites. On the concierge side, we are developing new services for our repeat guests who have already explored St. Petersburg’s must-see attractions and are eager to discover lesser-known gems.
Read more TRAVEL articles HERE
