July/August 2025 Issue

At the grand opening of Regent Hong Kong, on November 8, 2023, Italian acrobats in swirling red gowns and black tie twirled on aerial ropes outside the massive 10-meter high windows of the lobby while indoors, while dancers recreated a collage of images of Hong Kong, old and new. Recent guests have included IShowSpeed, the internet key influencer, who called his room the “best hotel room ever”. The old Regent, which opened in 1980, was a byword for the extravagance and luxury of the city in the 1980s and 1990s but lost some of its cachet along with its name in 2001, when it became the Intercontinental Hong Kong. 

With the revival of its original name,  the new Regent Hong Kong remains both luxe and a style setter, thanks to a cooly inventive design by Hong Kong-born Chi Wing Lo and the infectious charm of veteran hotelier Michel Chertouh. Here he chats with AmChamHK e-Magazine about what it was like, arriving in Hong Kong as the Covid-19 pandemic began to bring the renovation to completion, and why he is where he is today.

Q. Where did you grow up, and how were you attracted to the hospitality business?

A. I was born and raised in the heart of Paris, a city renowned for its elegance and timeless sophistication. My father, a chef at the historic Cercle de L’Union Interalliée—a private club founded in the 1900s, near the Champs-Élysées—introduced me early on to the world of refined hospitality. Both parents, including my mother, a dedicated pharmacist, pursued a family legacy of excellence.

From a young age, I was immersed in the essence of luxury. Attending staff parties and engaging with industry professionals through my father’s connections, I was constantly inspired by the artistry of service. Our visits to iconic landmarks like Hôtel Plaza Athénée and Hôtel de Crillon, both iconic Parisian landmarks, left indelible impressions, particularly the mille-feuilles at the Plaza, my personal favorite, which encapsulated the magic of Parisian bakery craftsmanship and elegance.

As my mother transitioned from pharmacy to join my father in opening restaurants and boutique hotels, I contributed on weekends, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Those early days nurtured my passion for hospitality—a field I knew I wanted to pursue wholeheartedly.

Later, I enrolled in a renowned hospitality school in Paris, initially captivated by the food and beverage side of the industry. Yet, what truly resonated with me was the artistry behind every element—service, ambiance, design—each a component of a grand, aesthetic composition. My upbringing instilled in me a profound appreciation for beauty, harmony, and the art of crafting memorable experiences.

Growing up in Paris fosters a deep appreciation for beauty and design. In hospitality, I see service as a form of artistic expression, where every element—ambience, interaction, and layout—comes together to create a memorable experience. It is this vision that continues to inspire me to elevate guest experiences to the highest level of sophistication.

Q. Can you talk about your life in the hotel business?

A. Throughout my career, I have gained exposure to a diverse range of countries, cultures, business models, shareholders, and brands, which has given me remarkable agility. Paired with an innate nomadic spirit, this versatility has been essential in navigating the complexities of opening and transforming the Regent Hong Kong. Living and working abroad has always been driven by a strong desire to step outside my comfort zone. For example, I spent many years in Brazil and even obtained a Brazilian passport—an entirely new world for me, as I spoke no Portuguese when I arrived. Adapting quickly was crucial; in Brazil, language barriers have remained significant, even today, especially during its early years of opening up to the world. This experience challenged me to learn, grow, and find new ways to connect and succeed. My relentless pursuit of growth beyond familiar territories has served me well, shaping me to face any challenge directly. My journey has taken me from bustling city hotels to serene resort properties—sometimes in vibrant urban centers, and other times in remote, untouched destinations. Navigating diverse environments, cultures, and stakeholder expectations has broadened my perspective and strengthened my resilience. This global journey continues to fuel my passion for hospitality, inspiring me to lead with adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—traits that were invaluable in steering the remarkable transformation of Regent Hong Kong.

Q. How do you look at your job now?

A. In the world of restaurants and hotels, aesthetics is only part of the story—what truly captivates me is the dynamic, day-to-day human experience. Today, I’m engaging in a conversation with you; tomorrow, I might be welcoming our CEO here in Hong Kong, interacting with distinguished guests, or working behind the scenes with our stewards and chefs. The industry constantly surprises me—sometimes a celebrity walks through the door, adding an extra touch of excitement to an already lively environment. This realm is both exhilarating and deeply rewarding, offering endless opportunities to explore the world while fostering a unique perspective for me and my family. It’s a fascinating industry that blends artistry, service, and opportunity, creating memorable moments and building meaningful connections across cultures and communities.

Q. Why did you take the job at Regent Hong Kong? 

A. Hong Kong has long held a special place in my imagination—as a vibrant destination and a thriving hub to live and work. My fascination with this city predates my arrival in Asia, driven by an innate curiosity to explore and discover its unique energy. Known as the birthplace of many world-famous luxury hospitality brands, Hong Kong’s allure has always been deeply compelling.

With over three decades at IHG Hotels & Resorts, I have had the privilege of serving in roles of growing significance. This latest chapter, overseeing the revitalization of an iconic hotel within the IHG portfolio—an organization with a rich heritage—felt like a defining moment. It was more than a project; it was an extraordinary opportunity to breathe new life into a flagship property that symbolizes both the spirit of IHG and Hong Kong itself.

To me, this was about more than management—it was about being part of something truly special and unique, shaping the future of a legendary destination and the iconic organization I am proud to represent.

Q. What was it like starting the job in 2021, in the middle of the pandemic lockdowns?

A. It was a fascinating experience. Even after arriving from Japan, I faced a two-week quarantine, a time for reflection and anticipation. When I exited, a driver was there to escort us to the service residence where we would stay while the project developed. As we began our journey, he asked me the same question many might: “What are you doing here? Why?” I explained that I was coming to help restore the Regent’s legacy in Hong Kong—a brand that holds a significant place in the city’s history. The driver’s reaction was truly remarkable. Instantly, he connected deeply with the story, the legacy, and the heritage of the hotel. It was the first time I experienced Hong Kong and Regent Hong Kong through the eyes of someone whose life and memories are intertwined with the brand. That moment captured the magic of this project—where history, passion, and connection come together to create something truly special. It’s more than a renovation; it’s a journey to revive a beloved icon, inspired by those who have lived and loved it before.

Q. What did you learn professionally from the experience?

A. Navigating the Hong Kong project during the pandemic was undoubtedly one of the most complex challenges I have faced. Supply chain disruptions, logistical hurdles, and ever-changing safety protocols created an environment of constant uncertainty. As the sole representative from IHG working with diverse stakeholders—including the project team, construction partners, and shareholders—I had to interpret a rapidly shifting landscape, all while preparing for operations and recruiting team members for a launch amid unclear prospects for when Hong Kong would reopen. No one knew.

Planning without visibility and managing such a large project in this unpredictable environment was sometimes overwhelming. The complexity was unmatched—I’d rate it a solid 10 out of 10. Handling a major investment with no clear timeline for borders reopening or visitors returning truly tested my resilience and adaptability.

Throughout this transformative journey, the restrictions, supply chain disruptions, and operational challenges provided valuable lessons. Sourcing materials was limited; much of the planning was done via video calls across different time zones with technical experts and partners outside my usual scope. Yet, it was precisely through these moments outside my comfort zone that I pushed myself, learned, and grew—discovering new strengths amid profound uncertainty.

Q. Before the opening, was there anything that went wrong at the last minute?

A. Perfection is an elusive goal, especially when it comes to transformation and refinement. Every renovation faces hurdles, and this project was no different—made more difficult by the extraordinary circumstances of the pandemic and related restrictions. For example, in December 2022, we reopened four of our restaurants before completing the rooms, offering our guests an unmatched dining experience with a view of Victoria Harbour—an iconic scene that captures the spirit of our waterfront location. One of the most striking features was a custom staircase connecting the lobby to these restaurants. Made in a factory in China, it symbolized the seamless blend of art and engineering. Just weeks before opening, the factory entered strict quarantine lockdown—workers inside, safety measures in place, yet the entire area was completely isolated. It was a tense period. Despite the challenges, the construction team kept working remotely, and after nearly four weeks of uncertainty, the restrictions were finally lifted. The factory workers finished the staircase just in time, and it was delivered and installed overnight, allowing us to open on schedule. That moment was perhaps our greatest challenge—and also a reminder of how much luck and resilience matter in our craft. Without the strict quarantine measures, we might have faced the unthinkable scenario of losing our key installation. We were fortunate, and it highlighted the unpredictable nature of such projects. In the end, it proved to be a testament to the dedication, adaptability, and sheer perseverance of everyone involved—showing that even amid hurdles, luxury and excellence can be maintained through commitment and a bit of luck.

Q. Given the slowdown in tourism and the food and beverage (F&B) industry in Hong Kong, what has performance been like?

A. While I cannot disclose specific numbers, I am proud to share that our location is at the heart of Hong Kong’s most dynamic transformation. From the revitalization of Kowloon—highlighted by the resurgence of Regent Hong Kong—to the launch of iconic developments like K11 Musea, The Avenue of Stars, Kai Tak Sports Park, and the cultural renaissance led by institutions such as M+ Museum and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, this part of the harbor is quickly becoming a vibrant center of art, design, sports, and world-class hospitality. Our legacy, exceptional dining options, and prime harborfront location have cemented Regent as a cultural and culinary landmark. Despite challenges faced by the food and beverage industry—due to shifting consumer habits and increased international competition—we have responded with unwavering commitment. Through ongoing innovation and a focus on relevance, we are reconnecting with discerning guests seeking immersive, memorable experiences. Regarding occupancy, we are in a steady state of growth. Each month, we continue to expand our market share and refine our positioning. Although the overall hospitality market has not yet fully recovered to 2018 levels, the positive trend is evident. This is a transformative rebranding journey, and we are precisely where we need to be—on a path of meaningful growth at this moment.

Q. What has your life been like in Hong Kong, outside work?

A. This week, I was fortunate to attend a mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil performance, followed by a captivating show at the Xiqu Centre featuring Rachid Oramdane and the Compagnie de Chaillot’s Corps Extrêmes—a masterful mix of modern and contemporary ballet that beautifully showcases Hong Kong’s eclectic arts scene. On Wednesday, I immersed myself in the lively atmosphere of Happy Wednesday at the Jockey Club, enjoying the infectious energy that flows through this city. Hong Kong’s seamless blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty is truly exceptional. Its stunning landscapes invite outdoor activities and scenic hikes, perfectly complementing the dynamic pace of city life—a vivid reminder of my background in luxury hotels and resorts, where balancing environment and experience is key. Raised in Paris, I cherish the city’s vibrant entertainment options and refined style, and I find it remarkable how Hong Kong captures both the elegance of urban living and the tranquillity of nature. 

On a personal note, I am thankful for my wife’s unwavering support; she is a dedicated psychoanalyst whose insights continue to enrich our family life. Our son, who graduated last week from Tsinghua University—building on his foundational studies at Sciences Po Paris, where he earned his bachelor’s in political science—has been influenced by the global exposure provided by his Schwarzman Scholarship in Beijing. He is now ready to pursue advanced studies in geopolitics and business at HEC Paris in France, embodying international collaboration and vision. My daughter is also doing well, currently pursuing her International Baccalaureate. Together, we celebrate the diverse experiences and opportunities that living in Hong Kong offers, enriching our lives and reaffirming the city’s role as a bridge between worlds—a place where tradition and modernity, nature and urban life, come together in extraordinary harmony. 

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