The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s charismatic general manager Bernard de Villèle has been recognised as the region’s ‘Most Popular – GM Powerlist Winner 2025’ in the hospitality and tourism industries.
The hospitality group presented its accolades, recognising the remarkable achievements of top executives who have made a profound impact on the sectors, at a glitzy awards ceremony in the UAE.
“I’m truly honoured,” Mr de Villèle told the GDN. “After seven-and-a-half years at the helm of the prestigious iconic Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain I would like to thank my amazing team and my very supportive ownership. I feel blessed to receive this incredible accolade.”
The five-star beach resort in Seef highlighted the achievement on its social media accounts stating: “Bernard enlivens the spirit of ‘We are Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen’ in the most authentic way, bringing our values to life with heart, humility and vision.
“His ability to honour tradition while spearheading innovation has shaped the soul of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, moving us forward with the steady assurance. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bernard on this well-deserved recognition.”
The French national has thanked everyone for the messages of congratulations after the announcement was delivered during the 11th Middle East Hospitality Excellence Awards staged at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club in Dubai.
Mr de Villèle took over the Seef property’s hot seat in 2018 and said at the time: “Our resort is truly the pearl of the kingdom, and I aim to ensure its continued legacy for years to come from expanding our dining to enhancing our resort features, guest experiences and more.”
He has certainly delivered, guiding the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain through a period of thoughtful evolution and sustained growth.
Under his leadership, the resort underwent significant enhancements, elevating the guest experience and solidifying its position as one of the most sought-after luxury destinations in the region.
The property celebrated a landmark year of achievements across dining, wellness, luxury and innovation. The resort was recently named World’s Leading Wedding Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2025.
Its culinary excellence was recognised through multiple honours from numerous dining awards and TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice. And, the Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bahrain earned top honours at the Spa & Wellness Awards.
The year also marked the launch of defining experiences and events such as the hotel’s newest dining venue, La Terrace, and the Luxury Boat Culture, enticing yacht owners to visit the kingdom in style.
The property also successfully hosted the IISS Manama Dialogue. There were collaborations with Bastien Gonzalez and Bentley and the installation of numerous EV charging stations too, all of which nod to Mr de Villèle’s leadership philosophy; a tenure rooted in forward thinking, inspired teams, and a deep dedication to enhancing the guest experience.
He has been described by industry sources as a ‘fervent leader and visionary’.
His career began in the hospitality industry more than 40 years ago after graduating from the world-renowned École Hôtelière de Lausannein Switzerland with a degree in hotel management.
Mr de Villèle’s career then crossed multiple continents with tenures in award-winning properties and senior management and executive roles for St Regis, Four Seasons, Hilton, InterContinental (IHG), Orient Express Hotels, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Savoy Group and TAJ Hotels.
Highlights include serving as Lebanon Area GM for Habtoor Hospitality, leading the opening of The Lanesborough in Hyde Park, London, managing major renovations at the legendary Belmond La Samanna with Belmond, formally Orient-Express Hotels, and serving as the vice president of business development and operations in Europe where he helped to establish the noted Taj 51 Buckingham Gate.
Gaining the attention of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in 2003, one of his most honourable early mentions was being awarded as one of the finest hoteliers worldwide.
In 2010 he joined The St Regis brand and led the opening of The St Regis Mauritius Resort, as general manager. In January 2014, he became the GM of The St Regis Mexico City, where he helped position the hotel as a landmark destination in Latin America.
And, his award-winning hospitality adventure continues in Bahrain.
&uuid=(email))