In the hotel industry, every day brings new challenges, unexpected stories and fascinating characters. Yet among all the people who make the magic of hospitality possible, hotel owners take centre stage. Their vision, personality and leadership style can turn a property into a five-star gem or an endless source of anecdotes. Because, let’s be honest, working with them can be as exciting as it is challenging.

Some owners have the ability to inspire entire teams, while others can create situations so surreal that you do not know whether to laugh or cry. From those anchored in the past to those dreaming of turning their hotel into the paradise of the future, every type of owner brings a unique dynamic that influences day-to-day operations and the guest experience. This article not only aims to identify these characters, but also to offer a survival guide for those who work side by side with them. The idea is not to judge, but to understand the motivations, quirks and passions that drive them. Because, at the end of the day, they all share a common goal: to make their hotel shine and leave an indelible mark on its guests. With a touch of humour, we will explore the different types of owners you may encounter in this exciting sector. Get ready to recognise some of them in your workplace... or perhaps discover a little of yourself reflected in these descriptions.

1. The 80s Nostalgic

• • Characteristics: This owner lives in the past. Their hotel is like a museum where rotary phones, floral bedspreads and CRT televisions still take centre stage. They firmly believe that “if it works, don’t change it”, even though that 1985 coffee machine has been making a strange noise since last year.
  • Typical phrase: “Don’t touch anything—we have always done things this way!”
  • Risks: The guest experience may feel as vintage as the décor.
  • How to manage them: Introduce small changes gradually. For example, start by updating the restaurant menu or suggesting modern background music. This way, they will feel comfortable while you enhance the experience.

2. The Zen Minimalist

• • Characteristics: Less is more. This owner champions uncluttered spaces, white walls and décor so subtle that it sometimes borders on non-existent. Their rooms may feel more like a spiritual retreat than a comfortable place to rest.
  • Typical phrase: “Guests are looking for simplicity and peace.”
  • Risks: Guests may complain that “something is missing” or not know where to hang their towel because there are no hooks.
  • How to manage them: Help them find a balance. Suggest small decorative or functional touches that do not compromise their minimalist vision.

3. The Experience King

• • Characteristics: This owner wants every corner of the hotel to be an unforgettable experience (and Instagram-worthy). From illuminated fountains to swings in the lobby, no idea is too extravagant.
  • Typical phrase: “What if we installed a slide from reception to the bar?”
  • Risks: Experiences may end up overshadowing the hotel’s comfort and functionality.
  • How to manage them: Help them prioritise experiences that genuinely enhance the guest stay. Not everything needs to be “wow” to work.

4. The Tech Innovator

• • Characteristics: This owner dreams of a fully automated hotel, where robots carry luggage and rooms are controlled through an app. Technology is their favourite pastime, although they can sometimes get carried away.
  • Typical phrase: “Artificial intelligence is the future of hospitality.”
  • Risks: Guests may feel frustrated if the technology fails or is too complex.
  • How to manage them: Remember that technology should complement, not complicate. Suggest intuitive, proven solutions before implementing futuristic ideas.

5. The Extreme Cost-Cutter

• • Characteristics: This owner lives to cut costs. Every expense must be justified with blood, sweat and tears. If something breaks, they fix it with duct tape.
  • Typical phrase: “Can’t we do it ourselves?”
  • Risks: Guests may perceive a lower-quality service as a result of the cuts.
  • How to manage them: Help them understand that some investments are necessary to improve guest satisfaction and loyalty.

6. The PR Maven

• • Characteristics: Always at events, trade shows and meetings, promoting their hotel as though it were the eighth wonder of the world.
  • Typical phrase: “My hotel is unique.”
  • Risks: They may neglect daily operations by focusing too much on promotion.
  • How to manage them: Help them balance their time between marketing and internal management.

7. The Invisible Owner

• • Characteristics: No one knows where they are or what they do. Decisions are made in their name, but they rarely appear.
  • Typical phrase: “Make it work.”
  • Risks: A lack of direction and clarity in management.
  • How to manage them: Document everything and ensure that decisions are clear and supported.

8. The Passionate but Overwhelmed Owner

• • Characteristics: They love their hotel as though it were their child, but are constantly on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Everything has to be perfect, which often creates tension within the team.
  • Typical phrase: “This has to be flawless!”
  • Risks: Their stress can spill over onto the staff.
  • How to manage them: Help them prioritise tasks and keep them focused on what is essential.

9. The Chaos-Creating Multitasker

• • Characteristics: They want to be involved in everything and nothing at the same time. They constantly change their mind and disrupt established plans.
  • Typical phrase: “We’re doing this differently—tell me before you decide.”
  • Risks: They create confusion and burnout within the team.
  • How to manage them: Define clear processes and make sure to obtain their approval before executing plans.

10. The Limitless Dreamer

• • Characteristics: They dream big, with projects that often exceed the budget. They want their hotel to be “the best in the world”, but do not always have their feet on the ground.
  • Typical phrase: “Nothing is impossible!”
  • Risks: Frustration if their dreams do not materialise.
  • How to manage them: Help them turn their ideas into viable, scalable projects.