Diversity as the key to success

The hospitality and restaurant industry is one of the most diverse sectors, and diversity is a top priority. People from all cultures, with different backgrounds and life experiences, work together here to create unforgettable experiences for guests. The industry is convinced that this diversity is essential to achieving and maintaining success.

Diversity also plays an important role for the Hauenstein Hotels . For them, it is much more than just a buzzword—it is an essential factor for success. It is important to them that diversity, in all its facets, is allowed—and indeed should—thrive.
The hotel group comprises three exclusive four- to five-star hotels on Lake Thun, accommodations in idyllic rural settings, and six restaurants in the Lake Thun region. Each of the properties under Hauenstein Hotels is unique and multifaceted in its own right.
This diversity is driven above all by the approximately 300 employees who work at the properties of Hauenstein Hotels . Over 35 different nationalities are represented, including Portugal, Romania, Thailand, Somalia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

In July 2023, Maurits Stürtz from the Netherlands began working at the Solbadhotel Sigriswil after changing career paths. At 23 years old and with a degree in civil engineering, he now works in customer service and delights guests with his friendly demeanor. Maurits says, “I enjoy making sure our guests have a wonderful time, even if my German isn’t perfect.”

In April 2021, Georgi Nikolaev from Bulgaria began working as an all-around housekeeping staff member at the Deltapark Vitalresort. At that time, he did not speak German. The language barrier was not seen as an obstacle by the hotel, but rather as an opportunity to gain a valuable employee. He was able to improve his communication skills as part of the team. “My German still isn’t perfect, but it’s getting better. This winter, I’ll be taking another course at the Belvédère Strandhotel, along with other employees from the Hauenstein Hotels.”

Gender diversity is also prominent at the “ Hauenstein Hotels .” Not only at the management level, but also in the various departments—whether at the front desk, in the restaurant, in the kitchen, in housekeeping, or at the spa—women and men work closely together on an equal footing.

Melanie Mani, Head of Housekeeping at the Deltapark Vitalresort, is an impressive role model. At 29, she leads 30 employees in one of the hotel group’s largest departments. Her team includes 23 women and 7 men from 11 different countries and cultures. Melanie plans to complete her studies at the Higher Vocational School to become a Hotel Housekeeping Manager next year. “ Hauenstein Hotels offers excellent opportunities for continuing education,” Melanie emphasizes. Taking on leadership responsibilities as a young woman comes with its share of challenges. “Not everything always goes according to plan. But thanks to our close collaboration and mutual support within the team—both in housekeeping and throughout the entire hotel—we’re able to overcome even the biggest hurdles.” In addition, Melanie is responsible for training the apprentices and is particularly proud to mentor two young men who are learning the trade of hotel specialist (EFZ). “It’s great to see that we’ve been able to inspire young men to pursue our profession, even in this largely female-dominated industry.”

It is precisely these kinds of experiences that bring diversity to life. The hotel group encourages such stories and aims to provide all employees with a work environment where they feel comfortable and welcome and can fully develop their talents. The Hauenstein Hotels are firmly committed to continuing to promote this diversity and to capitalizing on the exciting opportunities that diversity offers in the hospitality industry. Through targeted measures, they create a work environment characterized by respect, equality, and diversity.