Could you introduce yourself briefly and tell us about your role at the Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels?
I am Audrey Christophe, a French expatriate in Belgium for the pre-opening of the Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels as the Director of Human Resources.
In my role, I will be responsible for defining the "People and Culture" strategy of the establishment, recruiting the approximately 230 people who will make up the team, and above all, making this iconic place a great place to work.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I am, above all, passionate about the hospitality and catering industry. I have always loved this field, which has guided my educational and professional path. I have had the opportunity to enrich my experiences in iconic places such as the Fairmont in Monte Carlo, L’Auberge du Jeu de Paume, Relais & Châteaux 5* in Chantilly, and most recently for the opening of the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, a 5* Forbes gem in the heart of Champagne.
I have always aimed to implement values centered around people in demanding and luxurious environments. The two are truly compatible. This combination brings beautiful projects to life!
I believe that the hospitality industry still suffers from a poor image today and that it is time to dispel the clichés about this sector. We spend so much time at work in our lives! I am convinced that hospitality businesses must rethink their approach, their management, and especially the conditions in which the men and women who work there evolve daily. This is what drives me in participating in an opening, and the Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels offers the opportunity for everyone to contribute to the success of this project, both as individuals and as a team.
The Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels will open its doors at the end of summer 2024. This iconic building is finishing its modernization and getting a makeover. Can you tell us a bit about what has led the establishment to this point?
Since its opening in 1910, the establishment has always been a landmark in Brussels. Over the years, it has hosted many prestigious visitors. Today, it is still recognized as an undisputed cultural venue, where grand classical concerts have been held. This mythical place was closed in 2007 and remained dormant for nearly 10 years.
In 2016, the building was acquired by Corinthia, a group founded in 1962 by the Pisani family in Malta, which specializes in luxury hospitality. The group then appointed Belgian architect Francis Metzger to lead the renovation project, with the mission of restoring the hotel's former glory while equipping it with the latest technology, comfort, and services.
What sets Corinthia establishments apart from other Palace hotels?
Corinthia Group hotels are distinguished by their "Grande Boutique" spirit, which combines "Grande Dame" style with "Lifestyle". Each hotel captures the vibrant energy of the city it is located in. All spaces within the hotels reflect local life: renowned local chefs lead the restaurants, bars have unique identities with prominent figures from the bar world, and a Members Club gathers the iconic figures of the cities. This creates a vibrancy not found in other palaces that boast a "glossy paper" luxury.
At Vendôm, we believe that "know-how" often stems from a strong desire to embody "know-being". According to us, these two pillars are essential to thrive in the professional luxury world. What is the ideal profile of candidates you select to work with you?
We are primarily looking for people with positive energy, who embrace team spirit, generosity, and a desire to excel. We want to cultivate differences because we believe that each individual, through their personality, can bring so much to this magnificent project. This is what makes Brussels strong, recognized as a very cosmopolitan city where different cultures coexist harmoniously.
Participating in the opening of a luxury hotel is an incredible and formative experience in a career! It's a great human adventure for those who wish to join us.
If you had to choose three words to describe the work experience within Corinthia hotels, what would they be?
1. Caring: Because empathy and kindness are part of our DNA.
2. Strives to excel: Because we aim for excellence across all our properties.
3. Entrepreneurial: Because everyone can be a driver of this excellence, choosing to evolve in an environment that thinks differently and sets new standards.
If the Corinthia Brussels could speak, what would it answer to:
Your favorite drink?
Whisky Sour, because it is a seductive and enveloping cocktail with a bold and pure flavor, refreshed by the aromatic strength of lemon.
Your bedside book?
"Villette" by Charlotte Brontë, as this book mentions the Grand Hotel Astoria. She and her sister Emily Brontë lived in the neighborhood.
A favorite scent?
Fresh flowers, unquestionably!
A quote?
"Elegance is the only beauty that never fades." - Audrey Hepburn
Find the latest news about the Corinthia Brussels:
https://www.vendomtalents.com/en/companies/corinthia-brussels
