In an exclusive interview, Mathieu Greppo reveals his 20-year luxury hospitality journey, his new appointment as general manager of InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut and what projects he has planned for the iconic hotel.
How did you reach where you are today?
What are the challenges you are facing and how do you plan to overcome them?
Lebanon’s challenges are widely recognized, ranging from economic fluctuations to regional instability, which require thoughtful leadership and strategic adaptability. Leading successfully in such an environment demands resilience, flexibility and a strong team dedicated to upholding stability and operational continuity effectively. At InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut, our greatest strength lies in this unwavering commitment, ensuring seamless guest experiences despite external difficulties consistently. The hotel proudly serves as a sanctuary where high standards are upheld, even amid challenges, through resourcefulness and teamwork. By prioritizing genuine hospitality and maintaining flexibility, we navigate complexities while preserving Phoenicia as a haven of consistency confidently.
What can you tell us about the first-class service and offering at InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut?
InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut’s legacy of excellence is rooted in our commitment to true hospitality—a guiding principle at IHG. Our team curates experiences that anticipate and exceed guest expectations. From attentive service to meticulous attention to detail, every guest interaction reflects our promise of a warm, authentic and memorable stay. Moreover, the hotel’s offerings go beyond luxury, including exquisite dining, spa experiences and a timeless design that honours Beirut’s heritage. Furthermore, each element works in harmony to create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that every visitor feels the Phoenician spirit of genuine care and world-class hospitality.
Do you have any projects you can share with us?
We are excited about ongoing projects to enhance our facilities, ensuring Phoenicia Beirut remains at the forefront of luxury hospitality. A major room renovation is currently in the design phase, with mock-ups anticipated for 2025. Moreover. refurbishment is already underway with state-of-the-art technology updates, such as new TVs and telephones, as well as a progressive replacement of carpets in rooms and corridors. Furthermore, these upgrades will enrich the guest experience while preserving the hotel’s charm. Our goal is to continuously modernise while staying true to Phoenicia’s legacy, creating spaces that blend comfort, functionality and elegance.