Lifelong learning | Meet Stefan Bauer | Executive Master’s Student, Les Roches

Welcome to the next installment of our 2024 ‘Executive Ambitions' series, where we spotlight the driven professionals who’ve joined our flexible Executive Masters programs.

Today, we introduce you to Stefan Bauer , one of the newest members of our Executive MBA in Global Hospitality Management, as we delve into his journey and aspirations within the dynamic world of global hospitality.

Please introduce yourself!

My name is Stefan Bauer. I’m from Austria, and am currently living in Warsaw where I’m the General Manager of the Nobu Hotel Warsaw . I have more than 25 years’ experience working in hospitality in my native Austria, the UK, China, Italy, Czechia, Canada, and now Poland.

After graduating with a degree in Hospitality Management, I joined Hilton Worldwide as an F&B Management Trainee at the Hilton Park Lane, London, before working my way up to F&B Manager at the Hilton London Gatwick Airport. From there, I progressed to being the General Manager, then founded my own consultancy before moving back into hotel general management. Throughout my career, I’ve always made sure to ask questions and never stopped learning – and with this Executive MBA, I’m still doing it.

I view myself as a coach, innovator, and optimizer, and outside of work, I enjoy skiing, tennis, and cooking.   

Why did you choose Les Roches and the Executive MBA program to continue your education?

I believe you can always learn something new, so as well as finding out about the latest thinking in hospitality, I’m aiming to develop personally and professionally while also taking advantage of networking opportunities. I chose Les Roches due to its reputation but also thanks to personal recommendations from previous students. 

In terms of personal development, what would you say is the most important thing you are hoping to learn with us? 

As personal development is one of my main motivations for joining the program, improving my self-awareness is high on my agenda. From an academic perspective, I’m also keen to improve my knowledge and understanding of finance and asset management. I’m definitely looking forward to applying what I learn in class to real-life scenarios in my day-to-day business.

What are your professional ambitions after you graduate?

Any development will bring you more confidence in what you do, especially learning new aspects of business and life. My immediate goal is to become a better leader, but ultimately, I’m aiming to transition into the role of a group CEO, overlooking several hotels while remaining connected to the operational side of the business. 

Finally, what advice would you give to an executive-level professional looking to apply for a program at Les Roches?

It is important to step out of your comfort zone from time to time, if not always. If you challenge yourself daily, work hard, remain interested, and stick to your values, you will succeed. It’s all about your involvement and how seriously you take the program. In short, it’s up to you to make it a success.

Thanks to Stefan for taking the time to introduce himself and we wish him all the best for the remainder of his studies at Les Roches. We are also looking forward to seeing how his Executive MBA helps him achieve his career goals after graduation.