Over 35 years of international experience in luxury hospitality

Yanbu, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – October, 2025 – Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu is pleased to announce the appointment of Jean-Marc Boutilly as its new General Manager. With over 35 years of international experience in luxury hospitality, Mr. Boutilly brings a wealth of operational expertise, visionary leadership, and a deep passion for guest excellence to Kempinski’s second property in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the first five-star luxury resort in the coastal city of Yanbu.

Mr. Boutilly’s distinguished career includes two decades serving in General Manager roles across Switzerland, where he earned recognition for his transformative leadership and commitment to the highest standards of European luxury hospitality. Prior to joining Kempinski, he served as Group Managing Director of Villars Alpine Resort, overseeing its successful repositioning into one of Switzerland’s most renowned alpine destinations. His work earned him the prestigious title of ‘Hotelier of the Year’ by Bilanz magazine and the ‘Gastronomy & Tourism Swiss Welcome Trophy’ by G&T Magazine.

Throughout his career, Mr. Boutilly has been instrumental in leading hotel openings, repositionings, and turnarounds. Notable achievements include the launch of the Chandolin Boutique Hotel, recognized by GEO Magazine as the ‘Best Mountain Hotel in Europe 2019’; the repositioning of Hotel Le Mirador into Switzerland’s Top 50 Urban Hotels; the re-opening of the Hotel Crans Ambassador; and a successful revitalization of the iconic Hotel des Trois Couronnes.

Rooted in his early culinary and service beginnings as sous-chef and Maître d’Hôtel, Jean-Marc offers a rare 360-degree understanding of the guest experience, particularly in food and beverage, a cornerstone of the Kempinski identity. His leadership style blends strategic vision with operational precision, always centred on personalized service, team empowerment, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

In his new role, Jean-Marc aims to elevate Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu as a destination of distinction along the Red Sea coastline.

“I am honored to lead Kempinski’s property in Yanbu, the Pearl of the Red Sea,” he said. “After many fulfilling years in Switzerland, I’m excited to call this magnificent city home. I look forward to shaping a resort that not only reflects Kempinski’s legacy of luxury but also celebrates the warmth and spirit of Saudi hospitality.”

Sebastien Mariette, Vice President Operations for Bahrain, KSA, Levant & Morocco at Kempinski Hotels, welcomed the appointment, stating, “Jean-Marc’s arrival marks a strategic milestone in Kempinski’s expansion across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. His deep understanding of European elegance and operational excellence aligns perfectly with our vision. I am confident that under his leadership, our Yanbu resort will flourish as a beacon of refined luxury and sustainability.”

Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu stands as a symbol of refined coastal living, offering a unique blend of European elegance and Saudi authenticity along the tranquil shores of the Red Sea. With Jean-Marc Boutilly at the helm, the resort enters an exciting new chapter in its journey.