Rocco Forte Hotels announces the appointment of Giancarlo Rizzi as General Manager of Hotel Savoy, located in the heart of Florence. Mr. Rizzi takes over from Edward Leenders, who was with the hotel for over 4 years and has relocated to Hotel Amigo, the Rocco Forte Hotel in Brussels.
His experience spans a career in luxury hotels across Italy and Europe. Previous positions include roles at Four Seasons George V, The Ritz and Le Royal Monceau in Paris, to mention only a few. Most recently he was Hotel Manager at Villa La Massa in Florence and Resident Manager at Villa D’Este in Lake Como and at The Bauer’s in Venice.
His vast knowledge of all aspects of hotel management brings a wealth of operational and management experience to his new role and to the team. Mr Rizzi is tasked with managing the day-to-day operations of the hotel and Irene, the Tuscan Bistro by celebrity chef Fulvio Pierangelini that opened last April. Mr Martin Elsner, Vice President Operations of Rocco Forte Hotels will support Mr Rizzi in all the strategic issues, in order to continue offering discerning guests from around the world a memorable stay in Florence and an impeccable and personalised service.
The 102-room Hotel Savoy, is situated next to the Duomo, within walking distance of the Ponte Vecchio and all of the finest designer boutiques of Via Roma and Via Tornabuoni. The lobby and suites have been recently redesigned, capturing the spirit of Florence and creating an intimate and refined atmosphere within the hotel.
Giancarlo Rizzi commented: “Having known Florence and the charming Hotel Savoy for many years, I feel naturally at home here. The exceptional location combined with the team of passionate and professional colleagues, gives Hotel Savoy a special and unique atmosphere. To me being part of the Rocco Forte family is a true honour.”
Born in Milan, Mr. Rizzi speaks three languages fluently – Italian, English and French – and practices yoga and pilates.
