Julien Labays assumes the role of Resort Manager at Rosewood Baha Mar, focusing on enhancing guest experiences to meet Forbes Five-Star standards and celebrating a significant career milestone.
NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS – Hailing from Pau, a picturesque commune nestled by the Pyrenees, Julien Labays embarked on a journey that would eventually lead him to a distinguished career in hospitality. Labays found his calling gradually, drawn by an innate sense that hospitality was where he belonged. With over two decades of experience, Labays celebrates a significant milestone as he assumes the role of Resort Manager at Rosewood Baha Mar in The Bahamas. In this new position, Labays will collaborate closely with Managing Director Monica Ortiz, with a special focus on elevating the guest experience across all areas of the resort to meet Forbes Five-Star standards.
Reflecting on his journey, Labays recognizes that his family’s influence was instrumental in shaping his character and instilling a deep desire to serve – qualities that have become the cornerstone of his successful career. His professional path, enriched by roles at prestigious hospitality brands such as Sofitel, The Setai, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, has been defined by countless meaningful acts of service, each contributing to the positive impact he has made in the industry.
With a background in luxury hospitality, including his role as Director of Hotel Operations at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows and Regional Director of Food & Beverage Operations at The Setai Miami Beach, Labays arrived in Nassau with high expectations. What he encountered on his first day, however, surpassed them all – a profound sense of authenticity. “Bahamians are inherently warm and welcoming,” says Labays. “Their hospitality isn’t just a job; it’s who they are. Guests can sense the difference between mere politeness and genuine care, and that’s what sets Rosewood Baha Mar apart. It’s luxury that feels like a home away from home.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Julien to Rosewood Baha Mar,” said Managing Director Monica Ortiz. “He brings a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of what makes this place truly special for our guests. Our aim is to create a lifestyle for our discerning visitors, and that can only be achieved with a passionate leader to support a team like the one Julien is now working with.”
As he settles into his new role, Labays is eager to make a lasting impact. A longtime admirer of the Rosewood Hotel Group, he holds Sonia Cheng in high regard for her visionary approach to modern luxury lifestyle, which emphasizes a deep connection to local culture and history. For Labays, what truly defines the Rosewood experience in The Bahamas is the people. He is thrilled to work with a primarily Bahamian team, complemented by colleagues from more than seven different countries – each an expert in their field – reflecting the diversity of the clientele at Rosewood Baha Mar. Labays is excited to nurture the next generation of hospitality leaders, recognizing in them the same genuine desire to serve that has been the cornerstone of his own success—a quality he attributes to his upbringing.
“We’ve assembled an outstanding team here, and I’m excited to work closely with our entire team to craft unforgettable experiences for our guests at Rosewood Baha Mar,” Labays remarked. “The most rewarding part of this industry is the genuine gratitude from guests,” says Labays. “Hospitality is, at its core, people taking care of people.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.