Passion for hospitality

With 45 hotels in different parts of the world, the biggest German chain, Maritim, is a success. One of their hotels has existed here for some 15 years and its reputation has never stopped growing. You cannot talk about its success without mentioning the hard work of its general manager.

Born in Darmstadt in 1965, Gert is the head of one of the most prestigious hotels in Mauritius after having occupied various positions elsewhere. Moreover, he is the youngest general manager in the Maritim chain. ?I am very happy and feel lucky to be the general manager of this hotel because obviously the ?Maritim Hotel? is a special destination.?

Gert arrived in Mauritius in 1998 and married Stephanie two years later. They met because they were both working in the same hotel. They have two daughters: Kenza and Tessa. They live in Grand-Bay, which he thinks is an interesting place with lots of attractions. He thinks the politeness of Mauritians has helped him a lot to settle down.

Indeed, when Gert took up his new job in 1998, he immediately noticed the hospitality and good manners of the Mauritian people. At the same time, he firmly believes these characteristics are the keys to the success of tourism in the island. In the context of his work, he thinks there are a lot of opportunities to be seized.

?Hotels are doing a very positive job in Mauritius! But things would not be the same if the Mauritians were not so kind! It is a pleasure to be surrounded by such people. And in fact, the atmosphere in my work is simply great. As regards Mauritius itself, I think it is a place where you can have a very good quality of life!?

Gert did both his primary and secondary education in Darmstadt. After completing the German baccalaureate, he threw himself into the world of hospitality as he had always planned. However, he surprised many relatives, especially his father who thought his son would take over his dental practice. ?Even during school holidays, I was going to work in hotels. I have always been fascinated with hospitality. It was always clear that this was going to be my career.?

Gert is fond of motorbikes. He even owned one while he was still in Germany. And he is still dreaming of doing some motorbiking in Mauritius as well. Apart from motorbikes, Gert also likes the sea, swimming and diving. However, it is hard for him to find time for his hobbies. Most of the time he gets home very late and needs to spend his little spare time with his family and friends.

?My work demands a lot of time. My life is divided between my work and my family. Anyway, I have promised myself to find more time this year to practise sports. My health would definitely benefit from this.?

At 41, despite being the general manager of the Maritim Hotel, Gert is confident he still has a lot to achieve in life. ?I would like one day to do something more challenging like taking the responsibility of two hotels. But for the time being, I would like to compete more on the Mauritian market. Obviously, we have some plans for the future of the hotel. I would really like to be part of them. But my plans for the future also regard my family. I will have to see what my kids need as well? ?