Accor Group CEO Bazin Expands Hotel Empire From 13 to 47 Brands

Accor Group CEO Sébastien Bazin, in a candid discussion, revealed his transition from the financial industry to the hospitality sector, driven by a desire to understand his own capabilities beyond luck. Bazin, who had spent 25 years in finance, sought to determine whether his success was due to skill or fortune. This introspection led him to take the helm of Accor Group, a Paris-based hotel conglomerate.

Under Bazin's leadership, Accor Group has expanded significantly, growing from a portfolio of 13 economy to mid-scale hotel brands primarily in Europe to a global entity with 360,000 employees across 110 countries and 47 brands, including Fairmont, Raffles, Mövenpick, Ibis, Mercure, and Novotel. The company's growth was so substantial that it required a restructuring two years ago, with Bazin retaining oversight of the luxury and lifestyle division due to its higher risk and faster growth potential.

Bazin's decision-making process is deeply personal, involving his instincts, emotions, and rational thought. He emphasizes the importance of trusting one's gut and heart before engaging the brain, as decisions made purely with the brain can often be flawed. This approach has served him well in both finance and hospitality, where he learned the value of a dollar and the importance of executing a vision over time.

Bazin's philosophy on decision-making is clear: "Anybody who’s waiting for the day after tomorrow is just an idiot, because a decision made later is usually worse than one made today." He advises being proactive and making decisions promptly, rather than delaying and potentially missing opportunities. Additionally, he stresses the importance of maintaining a positive demeanor, as leaders often have limited interactions with their teams and should make those moments count.

Bazin's insights into leadership and decision-making offer valuable lessons for executives across industries. His emphasis on instinct, emotion, and timely action provides a unique perspective on effective management and strategic planning. As Accor Group continues to expand and innovate, Bazin's leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the global hospitality market.