Laurent Roussin: A Journey Back to Passion in Hospitality
Since its grand opening in 2024, the Royal Mansour Casablanca has been under the stewardship of Laurent Roussin, a seasoned hotelier who proudly identifies himself as a "pure French product." In the vibrant cultural landscape of Morocco, Roussin has reignited his passion for hospitality and service, driven by an ambition to share the renowned French savoir-faire that has transcended borders. He reflects on his experiences, stating, "I feel as though I am reliving moments from thirty years ago, surrounded by a youthful team that pours their heart into their work, eager to learn and grow." This sentiment underscores his commitment to fostering a nurturing environment that not only enhances the guest experience but also empowers his staff.
Drawing from an extensive career that spans two decades in prestigious establishments like the Barrière Group, where he eventually became a jury member for the prestigious Best Craftsman of France competition in the maître d'hôtel category, Roussin brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. His leadership at Royal Évian, where he served as General Manager for eight years, further solidifies his expertise. Roussin emphasizes the importance of experience in leadership, advocating for a foundation built on practical skills before stepping into managerial roles. He articulates, "One doesn’t become a director merely by holding a diploma and completing a few internships; it requires a deep understanding of one’s team and a genuine love for this profession."
The Ideal Playground for Hospitality
Residing in Casablanca for the past two years, Roussin views the city as an almost perfect setting for delivering exceptional hospitality. He describes Morocco as "extremely welcoming and sensitive," with an innate sense of hospitality that he is keen to cultivate within the Royal Mansour. Unlike the social strains that often burden teams in France, he observes a workforce in Casablanca that is eager to engage with the hotel’s vision, provided they are met with a meaningful purpose and a supportive environment. He states, "It's about empowering them to excel, not disheartening them from their work." His passion is palpable as he reflects on the youthful energy that reminds him of his early days as a server, where love for the craft was paramount: "Here, I rediscover the flame of the profession."
The harmonious blend of Moroccan warmth and the rigorous standards of international luxury creates a "magical, explosive, and organic" atmosphere within the Royal Mansour collection, which also includes properties in Marrakech and Tamuda Bay. Roussin notes, "Morocco possesses a craftsmanship that we Europeans sometimes lack; an incredible wealth of heart and resilience that makes all the difference." This unique combination is what sets the Royal Mansour apart, establishing it as a beacon of excellence in luxury hospitality.
Founded in the early 2000s under the vision of Mohammed VI, the Royal Mansour collection was initially born in Marrakech, aiming to serve as a "showcase" for Moroccan craftsmanship, culture, cuisine, and traditions. Designed to encapsulate the finest artisanship and hospitality, the hotel exemplifies Morocco's ability to compete with the world's elite luxury destinations. Since its inception in 2010, Marrakech has climbed international rankings, finding its place among the globe's top hotels.
Building on this success, the Royal Mansour brand has expanded to include the Royal Mansour Casablanca, which revitalizes a historic palace from 1953 through a complete reconstruction, and the Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, located on the northern coast. Future developments are planned, including a site in Rabat, reflecting a broader ambition: to elevate Moroccan tourism, a strategic pillar of the national economy, and to showcase the country's luxury and excellence on the global stage. By focusing on high-end emblematic properties, Morocco seeks to enhance its overall profile and assert itself as a premier Mediterranean gateway.
As reported by lhotellerie-restauration.fr.
