Magical Moments at Hilton Prague

On January 10, 2024, The Hilton Prague celebrated a memorable farewell event for its esteemed General Manager, Michael Specking, who was retiring after nearly 17 years at Hilton Prague.

The event brought together ambassadors, clients, business partners, and other special guests to bid him farewell and welcome the new General Manager, Ryan Gauci.

The evening unfolded in the mystical ambiance of “Alchemist”, filled with enchantment, time travel, and captivating performances. The highlight of the evening was the symbolic passing of the key, as Michael handed it over the Ryan.

The Hilton ́s longtime manager used the occasion to express his gratitude in his speech, parts of which we are bringing to you here:

“Dear Excellences, loyal clients, my favourite colleagues, and good evening to my better half – Claudia.

Today, I stand here not as the general manager who selects the best mattresses or introduces the latest technology – no, today I stand here as the freedom fighter who can finally press the check-out button for myself! After over 42 years in the hotel business, and more than 16 years with Hilton Prague I retire to take a well-deserved nap – without the fear of complaints about pillows that are too hard.

Together, we fought battles against rebellious coffee machines and experienced epic dramas over forgotten toothbrushes.

I look forward to spending my days without the worry of overbooked rooms and missing mini shampoos. But I promise not to forget that the real luxury in the hotel lies not in the number of stars, but in the friendliness and dedication of the team.

So, a big thank you to my team who have worked so hard all these years that even the maids have muscles like Schwarzenegger, my chefs cook like the Bocuse and the service is miles ahead of those that serve at George 5 in Paris. You managed to make guests believe that we are wizards who can transform rooms into pristine oases in the blink of an eye and do the same when it comes to culinary surprises.

To my management team – big thanks for being my rock through thick and thin. Despite the ups and downs, we always found a way to turn it into a good laugh.

Cheers to a team that knows how to make work fun! and to Marta, my PA.

Another great appreciation to my colleagues for your endless support. And to my bosses who figured well how to occupy me with reports and statistics – gosh how many budget presentations!

To my and our clients here my big, big “děkuji” for your loyalty and support in all these years here in Prague.

To our owners I extend my greatest gratitude for holding on so long with me. But joke aside, cheers to you for joining the event tonight!

And to my better half – a big shout out to my wife for putting up with my work stories for all these years without falling asleep! Cheers to you Claudia, in crime and in retirement!

To my successor Ryan: May your coffee be strong, your minibars never empty, your guests never get too creative with their room décor, ensure happy team members turn deadlines into ”dead laugh” lines, delight the boss, and satisfy your proprietor. I know for sure – you will make it.

And to myself? May my retirement be as relaxing as a late check-out at no extra cost!

I now pursue my new career as a siesta master and pillow fluff expert!

Thank you, ahoj, goodbye and Auf Wiedersehen.”

Michael Specking is passing the key to Ryan Gauci

Ryan Gauci, the new General manager, addressed the gathering with enthusiasm and gratitude. He shared his excitement about the opportunity to lead the flagship Hilton Prague into a new chapter aiming to continue the hotel’s tradition of providing exceptional services and memorable experiences.

Adding to the significance, Hilton representatives Mr. Dominique Piquemal, VP Luxury Operations EMEA, and Mr. Ben Bengougam, SVP HR EMEA took the stage. They expressed appreciation to Michael Specking for his contributions and extended a warm welcome to Ryan Gauci, wishing him all the best in his new role.