Catering team of five achieve outstanding results with 102 weddings and 60 corporate events in 2010

Lebanon, Beirut, 23 May 2011 - Combining the graceful splendor of a European hotel, and the warm hospitality of Lebanon, Four Seasons Hotel Beirut is a memorable location to host any event. And for a country with such a rich culinary heritage, the dining table is often the star of the show. A delicious spread combined with impeccable service and elegant presentation is the hallmark of events catered for at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut.

With one of its members selected by Four Seasons as Catering Sales Person of the Year for the entire Europe and Middle East region, the Beirut catering team has proven their ability to deliver results in this highly competitive and lucrative hospitality sector within a very short period of time.

During March to December 2010 - within the Hotel's first year of operation - the five members of the catering team achieved successes totaling 102 weddings and 60 corporate events, 40% higher than was forecasted. Their attention to detail has set them apart and raised the standard of event catering in Beirut. They combine an inspired approach to food with a flair for finding just the right menu to satisfy the hosts' budget and the guests' tastes, whatever the size of the occasion.

General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, Stefan Simkovics says, "The reason Four Seasons shines among other hotels in the industry, not only in Lebanon but regionally as well, is because of our people, who form our cornerstone." He adds, "Their passion, experience, creativity and dedication make them a part of today's catering trendsetters in Beirut's highly competitive culinary scene. The team has worked tirelessly to make sure we provide a superior product and impeccable service to our guests. We strive to exceed our guests' every expectation while tailoring events to their unique and individual needs."

From the moment guests meet Four Seasons Hotel Beirut's catering team they are instantly put at ease with the quality of professional consultation. The team makes sure all the right questions are asked so that needs are perfectly met at all levels. Guests are included in the decision-making process by being treated to menu tastings and approached for consultations with the operations team on décor choices and logistics. Expert advice and professional recommendations accompany plans every step of the way. The result is an original, flawless event with exceptional flavours and exemplary service guaranteed to impress the most discerning of invitees.

Read more news about Four Seasons Hotel Beirut or make a reservation today. For more images please visit http://press.fourseasons.com/beirut/hotel-images/.

Four Season Hotel Beirut's Catering Team Players 

Leo Mrad, Catering Manager: Leo comes with a wealth of experience from the coast of North America to the deserts of Qatar. Armed with creativity, a sharp eye for detail, a charismatic personality and an unparalleled sense of humor, Leo brings in the business with ease. He is also a major player in group hotel training, showcasing the culture of Four Seasons to all his fellow employees while keeping the work environment fun and energised.

Lara Haddad, Catering Manager: Lara comes to the Hotel from the bustling city of Dubai, with a Masters in Luxury Hospitality from Institut Vatel, Nime, France. The Hotel's Catering Manager of the Year is a driven, yet charming, individual who manages a high business conversion level in addition to maintaining an elite repeat client base among a very exclusive group of Lebanese clientele.

Mirella Hokayem, Catering Executive: Mirella was one of the first internal hotel transfers of the hotel. In the short time she worked at the executive office, Mirella proved to be a hard working and dedicated team player. In the catering department, Mirella treats every passing minute spent in the hotel as a business conversion opportunity. Her courtesy, calmness and organisational ability enable her to enjoy one of the fastest business conversion ratios in the department.

Bilal Siblini, Catering Coordinator: Bilal is the catering team's rock. He remains calm during the inevitable daily storms and ensures every guest's request is responded to efficiently. He is a great support to the rest of the team and is highly depended upon. His organisational skills coupled with a degree in finance enables him to keep the ball rolling, regardless of how busy the operation gets.

Luma Sabbagh, Director of Catering: Luma stumbled upon the hotel business by chance and seven years later she is still very passionate about it. Although she has a degree in software development, she is enticed by the "novelty" of every day operations. Beirut is Luma's third Four Seasons hotel and is one she holds very close to her heart.

-Ends-

For more information please contact:
Katia Yasmine
TRACCS
Tel: +961 1 323077
Mobile: +961 70 897307
Email: Katia.yasmine@traccs.net

Suzan Bou Dargham
Director of Public Relations
Four Seasons Hotel Beirut
Tel: +961 1 761 000 ext 4786
Mobile: +961 70 008832
E-mail: suzan.boudargham@fourseasons.com

© Press Release 2011