Stephan Leroy, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins

In this episode of Where2FromHere, host Renae Leith-Manos sits down with Stephan Leroy, highly respected General Manager of Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, to explore what it takes to lead one of Australia’s most iconic luxury hotels in Australia's cosmopolitan Melbourne. For decades, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins has stood as a cultural landmark at the prestigious Paris end of Collins Street, a place where French elegance meets the vibrant spirit of Melbourne. Under Stephan's leadership, the hotel continues to evolve while honouring a rich legacy built over many years of consistent vision and dedication to the city’s art, culture, and hospitality scene. Originally from Normandy, France, Stephan brings decades of global hospitality experience across Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. Having led Sofitel properties in Sydney and China before arriving in Melbourne, he shares how different cultures approach luxury hospitality and why genuine human connection remains the true foundation of exceptional service anywhere an everywhere in the world. The conversation explores how Sofitel Melbourne On Collins has embraced its identity as a hotel of the arts, partnering with orchestras, theatre productions, and cultural institutions to create experiences that extend far beyond the traditional hotel stay. Stephan also reflects on the importance of leadership in hospitality, explaining why empathy, recognition, and respect for team members ultimately shape the guest experience. Sustainability is another key theme of the discussion. Stephan reveals how the hotel has implemented innovative initiatives—from in-house glass bottle water systems to partnerships that support Australian wildlife conservation—while maintaining the high standards expected of luxury travel. Together, Renae and Stephan also discuss Melbourne itself: an Australian city renowned for its food, wine, theatre, and multicultural influences. From the bustling Victorian markets to world-class restaurants and cultural institutions, Melbourne continues to position itself as one of the most dynamic destinations in the Asia-Pacific region and has just been named the best city in the world for 2026 by Time Out. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:10 From Normandy to Melbourne 03:40 Why location defines the Sofitel experience in Melbourne 06:20 Sofitel Melbourne on Collins,A Hotel of the Arts 09:10 How hospitality styles differ around the world 12:45 Leadership in luxury hotels 16:05 Sustainability in luxury hospitality 19:20 Why Australia is leading the world in hotel sustainability initiatives 22:10 Corporate travel trends and the evolving role of conferences in luxury hotels 24:55 Melbourne’s food, wine and market culture 28:05 Why Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital for theatre and restaurants 30:20 Where2FromHere, Stéphane? -- Subscribe above to this YouTube Channel, Where2FromHere for the best and latest regular luxury travel updates. For collaborations, contact us at: [email protected] Host: Renae Leith-Manos Editor: Angga Kuntara Content Writer: Tiasani Sundari Graphic & Design: Grace For more luxury travel go to: www.renaesworld.com.au For more on Sofitel Melbourne on Collins go to:https://sofitelmelbourne.duve.co/g/SD... Check out our luxury travel instagram: @renaesworldofficial For Luxury Hotel Consulting: www.luxuryhotelconsulting.com Watch every episode with spectacular visuals from some of the world’s best and most luxurious hotels over on Renae’s YouTube channel, “Renae’s World, Where2FromHere”.