Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai announces Adrian Messerli as its new General Manager.
Following his career journey with Four Seasons, Messerli makes the move from his most recent post at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles to Shanghai.
Born and raised in Switzerland, Messerli has travelled widely over the course of his career, climbing in management at Four Seasons destinations in the Caribbean, South America, Europe, the Middle East and East Africa – where he was first appointed General Manager in Seychelles – en route to Shanghai.
In addition to his current role as General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai, Messerli was handed the newly created role of Global Spa & Wellness Lead with focus on People Development.
The Shanghai property was Four Seasons first address in China. The historic city centre of Puxi outside has changed quite a bit since the hotel began welcoming guests in 2002 – especially over the last few years. “This area is now buzzing with dining, amusements and luxury shopping, and everyone on the streets seems so energetic and stylish,” observes Messerli. “It has really been an amazing transformation.”
Meanwhile, as Shanghai itself has expanded, lots of the newer luxury hotels have opened elsewhere. “Most of those properties are focused on high-tech and style; we are more classic, focused on service,” says Messerli, adding that the talent of his team is really the foundation of the hotel’s continued success. “One thing Four Seasons has always prided itself on is that our people are our biggest asset. I truly believe that is the case here. The way they welcome and accommodate people really touches the heart.”
Now, Shanghai is right where he wants to be, both for his career and for providing a secure social environment for his family. “The miles that I’ve covered over the years has enriched my mind and opened my eyes,” he says “It’s really about getting to know cultures and the people behind them.”
Though hotel work is Messerli’s primary passion, it isn’t his only one. Messerli spent three years in the Swiss military service; and aside from mountaineering, he’s an avid tennis player, enjoys the occasional round of golf and has always had an interest in aviation.
