10 Minutes with a Leader: Stephan Anseline - Winner of October Shining Stars Awards

Stephan Anseline, the General Manager of LUX* Grand Gaube in Mauritius, made the headlines this month for winning the Hospitality Shining Stars Awards. We asked him to share some inspiring wisdom with our readers and aspiring property leaders.

What colleagues say about Stephan:

“Stephan’s remarkable ability to stay ahead ensures that he not only maintains but redefines the highest standards of excellence. His leadership blends deep understanding with firm determination, fostering a growth-oriented environment where every team member feels inspired and valued. Unlike others who may cause discomfort, Stephan is an action-taker who leads with conviction and unwavering integrity, earning profound respect from his team through both his words and actions.”

HC: What was your first job in the industry?

SA: “After completing my hotel school, my first job in the industry was as a waiter. I learned a lot about customer service, teamwork, and multitasking. It was already a fast-paced environment, and I loved interacting with guests and making sure they had a great experience. Plus, it taught me valuable skills like communication and time management that I still use today.”

HC: What do you love the most about hospitality?

SA: “What I love the most about hospitality is the opportunity to create memorable experiences for people through innovation and creativity. There’s something special about making someone’s day better through great service, whether it’s a warm welcome, a delicious meal, a friendly conversation or simply, a smile. I also appreciate the sense of community within the industry; it’s all about teamwork and supporting each other to provide the best experience possible. Additionally, every day brings new challenges and interactions, which keeps things exciting!”

HC: What was the biggest challenge you had to overcome on your way to success?

SA: “The biggest challenge I faced on my way to success was learning to manage stress and stay organized in a fast-paced environment. In my early days as a waiter, and still now, the pressure during busy shifts could be overwhelming. I had to develop strong multitasking skills and find effective ways to prioritize tasks while maintaining a positive attitude. With time and experience, I learned how to stay calm under pressure and communicate effectively with both my team, peers and guests, which made a huge difference in my performance and confidence.”

HC: What would be your advice to beginners in the industry?

SA: “My advice to beginners in the hospitality industry would be to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Stay Positive: Attitude matters! A positive outlook can transform both your experience and that of people around you. Communicate Clearly: Good communication is crucial. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about something—clarity is key- in every situation. Be Adaptable: The hospitality environment can change rapidly, so being flexible and open to new challenges will help you thrive. Build Relationships: Connect with your team and guests. Strong relationships can create a supportive work environment and enhance the guest experience. Learn from Feedback: Take constructive criticism to heart and use it to improve your skills. Everyone has room to grow! And lastly and most importantly - Enjoy the Journey: Have fun! The industry can be demanding, but it’s also rewarding and full of memorable moments.”