At an airport gate, Milos Colovic realized as a young man that he wanted to become a hotel manager. Today, he runs the luxurious Grand Resort Bad Ragaz with a total of four entities. In an interview with finews.com, he reveals how he would spend a perfect weekend in «his» hotel.
Milos Colovic, why did you become a general manager?
Out of passion for service excellence. I remember the moment well when, as a 21-year-old, I met a true hotelier for the first time. It was at the gate of an airport and a well-dressed man dropped a business card.
I picked it up, read his title «General Manager» and we started a conversation. This was a moment of realization for me, in which it became clear to me that this is my absolute dream job.
Describe how you came to your current role.
After an up-and-coming career in various positions within the Kempinski Group, I joined the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in 2018 as Deputy Director. From 2020, I was responsible for the operational management of the hotel operations as Hotel Manager and was appointed General Manager in 2023.
What are five features that make your hotel stand out?
(all pictures, media @ Grand Resort Bad Ragaz)
- Our own thermal water
- The culinary delights with 6 Michelin stars, which are unique in Europe, united under one roof
- The Tamina Gorge and the pristine nature surrounding the resort
- Our 750 employees in all areas of the company, who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and take care of our guests with passion and drive
- The diversity in the resort – four hotels, seven restaurants, two spa areas, a clinic and a medical center, two golf courses and a casino.
Can you tell us what makes your hotel exceptional?
For me, it's the combination of an upscale modern grand hotel and the casual luxury lifestyle. In this ambience, I feel comfortable being a host.
What's the most unconventional thing you've experienced in your job?
The arrival of an Arab prince with 350 pieces of luggage for a single person.
How do you define hospitality?
At the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, we take the time to offer each guest an experience tailored to their individual needs and wishes.
Which VIPs have you had the privilege of hosting at your hotel?
Of course, as a hotelier, I never reveal this information, discretion is our middle name.
What does your hotel offer for a «perfect weekend» for two?
Personally, I think it's very clear: Everything! From beautiful nature and two extensive spa facilities to romantic restaurants and modern rooms and suites, couples of all ages will get their money's worth.
What are your plans for the hotel?
We want to stay true to our traditions and continue to be positioned as a pioneer in the field of medical wellness. In the coming years, numerous projects are planned that will sharpen and strengthen our positioning.
In addition, we want to further strengthen our attractiveness as an employer and, as a talent hub, help shape the host generation of tomorrow.
How is dining developing at your hotel?
Gastronomy is an essential part of our corporate strategy. We offer our guests a total of six Michelin stars and 76 GaultMillau points under one roof. Enjoyment is very important to us! In addition to modern, authentic concepts with regional, seasonal and international cuisine, our guests will find variety in the seven restaurants.
What is your motto when leading a hotel?
I want to create a magic moment for every guest. Our staff is always attentive and we respond to each guest individually. This, in turn, requires that all employees are highly motivated to live out service excellence and have room to develop themselves.
Describe your favorite hidden gem in the area.
My tip is Lake Walen – a place of power surrounded by imposing mountains with crystal clear water.
What is the best piece of advice you've received from your mother or father?
Listen to your gut, if you look back, you will realize that it has not deceived you most of the time.
Milos Colovic has been working in the hotel industry for over 13 years. He started his career within the Kempinski Group, where he held various positions. After about eight years, he moved to the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz as Deputy Director of Grand Hotels, until in a later step he became Hotel Manager and most recently General Manager. He studied at the International School of Management in Germany.
