Welcome Mr Anthony Clement

Our team is delighted to welcome Anthony Clement as the new General Manager of our dear The Chedi Lustica Bay hotel and we are happy to share his first impressions in this interview for MyGuide.
With a wealth of international experience and a profound passion for hospitality, Mr Clement brings fresh perspectives and a dynamic vision to this esteemed hotel.
In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his remarkable career journey, his aspirations for The Chedi Lustica Bay, and his deep appreciation for Montenegro's unique beauty and culture.
Join us in getting to know the leader who will steer The Chedi Hotel towards new heights of excellence and innovation.

MyG: Can you tell us about your career journey, and what attracted you to work in this part of the world? How do you feel about your new role in Montenegro?

AC: Born and raised in Burgundy, I have been blessed to be surrounded by authenticity, generosity and natural wonders. This is exactly what I found here!
Since I was young, I have always been attracted to the world of hotels, restaurants, and travel. Whilst I started my career in France, my first assignment abroad was to Montreal, followed by exciting roles and chapters in French Polynesia, Colombia, Oman, Canada and most recently The Bahamas. I had the opportunity to evolve professionally with several international brands and in many different types of properties.
As a hotelier and a foodie with a great passion for hospitality and unique destinations, I am proud to have joined the incredible team at The Chedi Lustica Bay and excited to make Montenegro my new home.
 

MyG: You've been part of the Orascom Development family before. How has that experience prepared you for your current role?

AC: My previous experience with Orascom Development has significantly prepared me for my current role. I deeply admire Orascom's vision of creating communities in the most exclusive places, which has shaped my understanding of integrating luxury hospitality with real estate development.
This experience enhanced my ability to manage complex projects and deliver exceptional guest experiences while maintaining operational efficiency. Additionally, Orascom's commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit inspired me to embrace innovation and strategic planning in my approach.

MyG: What are your immediate priorities as the new General Manager of The Chedi Luštica Bay?

AC: We will continue our quest for excellence by continuing to develop our talents, expertise and savoir-faire. Enhancing, re-imagining and diversifying the experience is a daily focus.
In this sense, we will work on implementing additional offers, building new relationships and exploring emerging markets.
 

MyG: How do you plan to incorporate and enhance The Chedi's brand values in your management approach?

AC: I would focus on maintaining the highest standards of service. Personalising each guest’s experience to reflect their individual preferences is crucial, as is preserving the sophisticated and serene ambience that defines The Chedi.
Encouraging innovation will improve both guest experiences and operational efficiency.
Creating a peaceful environment where guests can unwind and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle is essential. Every interaction should reflect The Chedi’s core values of distinction and tranquillity.

MyG: The Chedi Luštica Bay is known for its commitment to sustainability. How important is community involvement and support to you, and what plans do you have to engage and progress with the sustainability path?

AC: Community involvement is vital to our sustainability efforts at The Chedi Lustica Bay. We plan to raise awareness and encourage engagement among residents & local businesses to boost eco-friendly practices and support sustainable development.
By involving the local stakeholders in our initiatives, we aim to create shared benefits, enhance local economic growth, and foster a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

MyG: You arrived only recently, but what do you enjoy most about Montenegro and its culture so far? Do you have any personal goals or experiences you’re looking forward to during your time here?

AC: When talking to friends, colleagues and tourism professionals before my arrival, the consensus was clear, Montenegro is a hidden gem. The variety of landscapes, the richness of culture and history, the ideal geographical location, the safety, the lifestyle, the favourable climate and above all the kindness of people clearly explain its reputation.
I was just waiting for one thing: to land and belong to this place.
Here I am, ready to explore every region and eager to live local experiences.

MyG: What current trends in the hospitality industry do you find most exciting, and how do you plan to incorporate them at The Chedi?

AC: The technology for the benefit of comfort, the well-being aspect not only in the spa but at every corner of the stay and the cure of experiential moments are essential.
Nowadays, travellers are also looking for exceptional simplicity and a return to roots.
Last but not least which I don’t consider a trend but rather a mission - Sustainable tourism, a very important facet of our hotel, which is a pioneer in ESG practices in the luxury industry in the region.

MyG: How do you envision the future of luxury hospitality evolving, especially in light of the recent global changes?

AC: The future of luxury hospitality will focus on hyper-personalisation, sustainability, and advanced technology. Guests will demand highly customised experiences, while regenerative tourism will become essential.
Wellness will take a holistic turn, incorporating mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Privacy, exclusivity, and transformative travel will be key, with a growing preference for secluded resorts and unique experiences.
Brands will need a strong sense of purpose, and flexible long-stay options will cater to the rise of remote work. The blend of tradition with modern values will define luxury in the coming years.
 

MyG: What can guests expect when they stay at The Chedi Lustica Bay under your leadership?

AC: A sincere and warm welcome, a very deep attention to detail, omnipresent creativity, consistency in delivering high standards, a multitude of activities specific to our lifestyle-oriented identity and most importantly a precise and engaging service.
This is what our esteemed guests expect, what our team members constantly offer and what makes our hotel so special.

MyG: What advice would you give to aspiring professionals when it comes to working in luxury hospitality in the contemporary market?

AC: Bring your passion and personality to your role, maintain a positive attitude, and consistently stay on top of emerging trends.
Additionally, your commitment to continuous improvement and your willingness to specialise will help you stand out in this competitive field.

MyG: Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career, and why?

AC: If I were to draw inspiration from a figure in leadership, Auguste Escoffier would be an exemplary choice. Escoffier was not only a master chef but also a visionary leader who revolutionised the industry with his innovative brigade system.
This system streamlined roles, improved efficiency, and ensured that each team member could excel in their specific domains. His approach to leadership emphasized organisation, and the cultivation of talent, allowing him to elevate the standards of excellence.

MyG: What message would you like to convey to the guests and staff of The Chedi Lustica Bay as you embark on this new journey?

AC: We will work hand in hand with our numerous partners to be the hotel & destination of choice 365 days a year.
There is always a good reason to visit us. Each season has its charm and its secrets to reveal.

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WELCOME, ANTHONY! We wish you a fruitful stay in Montenegro.