60 Years of Exceptional Hospitality
Meet Geoffrey Webb, Vice President Global Sales Partners, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group who shares his insider intel on this iconic hotel group’s 60 years of legendary hospitality and what’s to come.
Geoffrey Webb holds a seasoned track record of over three decades in the hospitality industry. He has held leadership positions in various countries, including Thailand, Australia, Canada, and the United States, and currently resides in London. As the Vice President Global Sales Partners, Geoffrey leverages his extensive knowledge and expertise to drive sales growth and establishes strategic partnerships for Mandarin Oriental worldwide.
Where can we find Mandarin Oriental Hotels?
Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from its Asian roots into a global brand, the Group now operates 36 hotels and nine residences in 24 countries and territories, with each property reflecting the Group’s oriental heritage, local culture and unique design.
What is the meaning of the fan logo?
The fan logo represents Mandarin Oriental's Asian heritage and culture. It is a modern interpretation of the traditional Chinese fan, which symbolizes the art of hospitality and graciousness.
How and why was the brand born?
Mandarin Oriental was born in 1963 when The Mandarin hotel opened in Hong Kong. The brand was founded by Jardine Matheson Group, a British trading company with a long history in Asia. The idea behind the brand was to create a luxury hotel group that would showcase the best of Asian hospitality and culture to the world.
How has the brand evolved since its beginning?
Since its beginning, Mandarin Oriental has evolved from a single hotel in Hong Kong to a global brand with a portfolio of iconic properties. The brand has expanded to new markets, introduced new concepts and innovations, and developed a reputation for delivering exceptional service and experiences to its guests.
What are some amazing bars and dining experiences of the group?
Mandarin Oriental hotels offer a range of sought-after bars and dining experiences, from Michelin-starred restaurants to rooftop bars with stunning views. Some notable examples include Deessa at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid which holds two Michelin stars and Amber at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong - which has been recently awarded with a Green Michelin star - and the Mandarin Garden at Mandarin Oriental, Milan to name but a few. All our properties feature exciting and elevated dining experiences.
Mandarin Oriental has curated some of the most unique experiences, workshops and cultural journeys. Can you share a few?
Unique experiences are essential to the Mandarin Oriental brand experience. Some examples include tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, tai chi classes, and private guided tours of local markets and temples.
How do you cater to children at your properties?
We offer a range of children's programs and amenities, including Kids' Clubs at select properties, child-friendly menus, and babysitting services. We also offer special packages and activities for families traveling with younger children like our Little Ranger Adventures program at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London where children can enjoy a private Harvey Nichols shopping experience if they wish to be a Sloane Ranger, a visit to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment located only moments away from the hotel for the Royal Ranger or an adventurous ‘sensory’ game exploring neighboring Hyde Park for the Park Ranger.
Who is your ideal guest?
Mandarin Oriental's ideal guest is someone who appreciates luxury, personalized service, and unique experiences in global destinations.
What would you say is the common thread at all Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group properties?
The common thread at all Mandarin Oriental properties is a commitment to delivering exceptional service and experiences to our guests. The brand strives to create a sense of luxury, comfort, and well-being with its Asian spirit running like a silver-thread throughout all destinations.
Your properties are known for spas and wellness offerings. Where does the know-how come from?
Mandarin Oriental's expertise in spa and wellness offerings comes from a combination of influences, including partnerships with leading wellness brands, collaborations with experts, and a commitment to innovation and quality. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offers a range of treatments and therapies that combine ancient healing techniques with modern technologies and products.
What are some of the exceptional spa and wellness experiences you offer?
Our wellness offering includes traditional Chinese medicine treatments, Ayurvedic therapies, and bespoke wellness programs tailored to individual needs. Exclusive to Mandarin Oriental is the ‘Intelligent Movement Massage’. This treatment taps into Mandarin Oriental’s group-wide Intelligent Movement initiative. It’s a shift away from regimented exercise routines towards a more diverse approach, integrating all kinds of movement into everyday life – think feelgood beachside yoga in Miami, or tai chi on the lawn in Shanghai. The signature massage is an excellent place to start, combining spa indulgence with powerful deep-massage techniques.
What are some examples of how the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group interacts with local communities?
We interact with local communities in a variety of ways, including sourcing of local ingredients for our restaurants, supporting local arts and culture, and partnering with local charities and organizations to promote social and environmental sustainability.
Can you tell us more about your Exclusive Homes and Residences?
Mandarin Oriental's Exclusive Homes and Residences are a collection of luxury properties around the world that offer the brand's signature hospitality and service in a residential setting. Mandarin Oriental Residences are properties designed for discerning buyers who seek the ultimate in luxury living and personalized service whilst our Exclusive Homes represent a hand-picked collection of the world’s most luxurious private homes for rent.
What are you most excited about for 2023 and beyond?
We are excited about the imminent opening of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino and Mandarin Oriental Mayfair this fall with properties in the pipeline for Zurich and Muscat later in the year.
Contributor — Four Hundred by Design