Episode #242: Maxime Hotelier, Cluster General Manager, Tokyo IHG ANA Hotel Group

Previously Maxime was General Manager Klimpton Shinjuku Tokyo, Food and Beverage Performance Manager IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, Senior Champagne Brand Ambassador Pernod Ricard, Restaurant Manager & Chef Sommelier IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, Restaurant Manager & Sommelier Relais & Chateaux, Restaurant Manager Windsor Hotel Toyo Resort and Spa Hokkaido Japan
He studied at the Albert de Mun Hotel School, Paris VII

Summary


In this interview with Maxime, leadership is presented not as a title or position of authority, but as a way of being—rooted in presence, responsibility, and the ability to lead by example. A true leader doesn’t simply demand discipline, respect, or humility; they live these values daily. Trust, in this view, is not granted automatically—it is earned over time through consistent, ethical behaviour and authenticity.

Listening emerges as a foundational trait. According to Maxime, a leader must listen deeply—not just to their team, but to clients and the environment around them. Good leadership is based on understanding people and context, and this understanding comes from attentiveness. Leadership is described as a process of giving meaning, bringing people together, and guiding them toward a shared vision—not imposing one’s own will.

Particularly in hospitality, leadership is closely tied to service. For teams to serve clients with excellence, leaders must first serve their teams. The leader’s role is to support and enable, to create the conditions where people can do their best work. When the team feels cared for, valued, and respected, that same energy flows outward to guests. In this way, service becomes a leadership principle, not just a business one.

The interview also emphasizes leadership as a moral commitment. In challenging moments, the leader must provide clarity, stability, and courage. They are expected to be visible, available, and capable of making decisions under pressure. However, this doesn’t mean acting alone. Strong leaders know how to delegate, how to trust others, and how to build autonomy within the team.

A central metaphor from the interview is that of a ship’s captain. The leader isn’t someone who controls every movement, but someone who takes full responsibility for the journey and the wellbeing of the crew. Leadership, then, is about stewardship, not control. It’s a discipline that requires humility, patience, and a long-term commitment to people.
Ultimately, Maxime portrays leadership not as a fixed role, but as a daily practice—an intentional way of engaging with others that fosters excellence, trust, and collective purpose. It’s about being present, setting the tone, and cultivating a culture where people are both respected and inspired.