An intrepid globetrotter, tenacious problem solver and luxury hospitality aficionado, Charles Fisher wears the various hats of a hotelier with ease. He brings more than two decades of experience to his current role as general manager of Four Seasons Cairo at First Residence, where we caught up with him for an exclusive interview.
What can you tell us about your professional experience?
After completing a four-year degree in hotel and restaurant management at Oxford Brookes University in the UK, I joined the front desk at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.
I then moved to New York to work at The Pierre, which was a Four Seasons Hotel at the time, followed by Four Seasons Resort Nevis. The next promotion took me to Singapore, then Chiang Mai. As resort manager at Four Seasons Resort Lanai, I played an instrumental role in the property’s dramatic and award-winning transformation. I then spent the next few years at Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.
How would you describe your management style?
When you’re in a leadership role, it’s easy to walk in and expect the team to reshape itself around you. But if you’re nimble and can adapt to them, that works so much better. After all, the role of a leader is to make thoughtful improvements so team members can bring their best selves to work.
What challenges are faced by the hotel sector in Egypt?
Tourism has slowly recuperated since 2021, and the hospitality sector has already shaken off the many impacts of Covid-19. The lifting of travel restrictions worldwide, coupled with mass vaccination programs that rolled out both locally and abroad, have helped boost the sector tremendously. Furthermore, tourist attractions have been expanding rapidly in the country to lure in more holidaymakers.
As the new GM of Four Seasons Cairo at First Residence, what are your plans for the property?
I am excited to elevate the guest experience in all aspects, whether it’s the intricate dining experience on the First Nile Boat or a relaxing treatment at the spa.
At First Residence is a team that takes immense pride in personally recognizing every guest, anticipating their needs and tailoring their entire experience. This could mean making authentic Four Seasons memories, whether it is navigating the city with their favorite culinary delights, organizing a special celebration, or creating an element of surprise throughout their stay.
fourseasons.com/cairofr
