By Shruti Menon Seeboo
César Ritz Colleges Switzerland stands as one of the premier institutions for hospitality education globally, drawing on a rich history inspired by the legacy of César Ritz—the “King of Hoteliers and Hotelier to Kings.” What makes this Swiss institution truly stand out, however, is its unique blend of tradition and innovation, combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence. In this interview, Yann Lim Ah Tock, a Marketing Executive and alumnus of César Ritz Colleges, shares insights into what makes the college’s programs so special, the opportunities they offer, and how they continue to shape the future of hospitality education.
A tradition of excellence and entrepreneurial focus
At the heart of César Ritz Colleges is a philosophy rooted in both tradition and modernity. This unique approach helps students master the art of hospitality while developing the skills needed to lead and innovate in an ever-changing global landscape. Yann emphasises how the school combines these elements to create an exceptional educational experience:
“César Ritz Colleges are inspired by the legacy of César Ritz, the ‘King of Hoteliers and Hotelier to Kings.’ What truly sets us apart is our Swiss ethos of excellence, which combines time-honoured traditions with modern innovation,” Yann explains. “Our programs focus not only on hospitality but also on entrepreneurial management. This gives students a comprehensive skill set to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.”
One of the standout features of César Ritz’s programs is the annual business start-up competition. This event encourages students to develop their own business ideas, taking them from concept to execution, with mentorship from industry leaders. This hands-on experience not only sharpens students’ business acumen but also equips them with the confidence to innovate and lead in their careers. “It’s a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience and entrepreneurial confidence,” Yann adds.
Practical experience in the global hospitality industry
While theoretical knowledge is essential, practical experience is critical in the hospitality industry. César Ritz Colleges ensures that students gain this experience through internships, which are a core component of the curriculum. Yann highlights the global network of the school, which offers students the chance to intern at world-renowned hospitality brands:
“Students are required to complete a minimum of two paid internships during their studies. Through our extensive global network, students have the opportunity to intern at leading hospitality brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Marriott International, and more,” Yann says. “These internships offer invaluable hands-on experience in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels.”
In addition to internships, César Ritz Colleges provides other opportunities for students to learn directly from industry professionals. “We also offer guest lectures, networking events, and hands-on projects that give students unparalleled exposure to the global hospitality industry,” Yann explains. “Our goal is to create well-rounded professionals who are prepared to take on leadership roles as soon as they graduate.”
Sustainability and innovation: Shaping the future of hospitality
As the hospitality industry evolves, there is increasing pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices and leverage new technologies. César Ritz Colleges has responded to these changes by incorporating sustainability and innovation into its curriculum. Yann speaks to how these areas are woven into the school’s educational approach:
“César Ritz Colleges aligns its programs with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, embedding principles of environmental and social responsibility into all aspects of our courses,” Yann notes. “Our students participate in Green Globe-certified campus initiatives, such as food waste reduction and renewable energy use. We also offer hands-on projects like beekeeping and eco-friendly soap-making, which are designed to give students real-world experience in sustainable hospitality practices.”
In addition to sustainability, innovation is also a key focus of the school. Yann points to the growing role of technology in hospitality and how César Ritz incorporates it into its curriculum. “We encourage our students to explore technological advancements like artificial intelligence, automation, and blockchain. These technologies are reshaping the industry, from efficient service management to increased transparency in supply chains,” he says. “By incorporating these cutting-edge developments into our programs, we ensure that our graduates are equipped with the skills needed to lead the future of hospitality.”
Alumni success stories: Leading the way in hospitality
The true measure of an educational institution’s impact is in the success of its graduates. César Ritz Colleges’ alumni have gone on to become influential figures in the global hospitality industry. Yann shares some notable examples:
“Our alumni are leaders in hospitality across the globe. Sebastien Bazin, the CEO of AccorHotels, is one of our most successful alumni. Many of our graduates have gone on to establish luxury hotel chains, hold C-suite roles in global brands, and even start their own hospitality tech startups,” Yann proudly says. “Their success stories are a testament to the quality of education, mentorship, and networking opportunities that César Ritz Colleges offers.”
The strong network that students develop during their time at César Ritz Colleges is another key factor in their future success. “We have a vast network of alumni who are in leadership positions around the world. These connections are incredibly valuable, not only for mentorship but also for career opportunities after graduation,” Yann adds.
Industry partnerships: Creating pathways to success
One of the key advantages of studying at César Ritz Colleges is the institution’s strong relationships with leading global hospitality brands. These partnerships provide students with access to exclusive internship and job opportunities, as well as direct pathways to employment.
“We are proud to have strong connections with industry giants like Hilton, AccorHotels, and Mandarin Oriental,” Yann says. “These partnerships allow our students to gain exposure to the best hospitality brands and build their careers through exclusive internships and direct recruitment.”
The school’s International Recruitment Forum (IRF) further strengthens these connections. Held on campus, the IRF brings leading hospitality brands directly to students, giving them the opportunity to network and secure top-tier roles in the industry. “The IRF is a fantastic opportunity for our students to connect with potential employers. It’s an event that helps bridge the gap between education and employment,” Yann explains.
The Swiss advantage: A world-class learning environment
Switzerland, with its longstanding reputation as the birthplace of modern hospitality education, is an ideal location for César Ritz Colleges. Yann highlights how the Swiss environment enhances the learning experience, especially for international students:
“Switzerland offers an international reputation for precision, luxury, and hospitality excellence. The country’s diverse cultural landscape provides a rich environment for learning and personal growth,” Yann says. “Studying here allows students to immerse themselves in the best of Swiss hospitality while also gaining exposure to the broader European market. Being located in the heart of Europe also offers easy access to key cities like Paris, Milan, and Munich, which are hubs for networking and professional exposure.”
Financial support for Mauritian students
César Ritz Colleges recognises that studying abroad can be a significant financial investment. For Mauritian students, there are a variety of financial support options available to help make their education more accessible. Yann explains the financial aid programs offered by the college: “We offer several financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, early-bird discounts, and partnerships with local financial institutions in Mauritius to provide student loans,” he says. “Additionally, we assist Mauritian students in applying for external scholarships that may be available to them through international or governmental bodies.”
