Shangri-La veteran returns to Shenyang

Ken Zuo, the newly appointed general manager of the Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang, Liaoning province, is confident in his new role and the future of the hotel as he returns to the city where his Shangri-La story began.

"I'm delighted to be working with the team at Shangri-La, Shenyang, and I'm looking forward to contributing to the hotel's further development," said Zuo, a veteran hotelier with more than 20 years of experience in the industry.

Prior to joining Shangri-La, Shenyang, Zuo served as general manager at Shangri-La properties including Hotel Jen Shenyang in Northeast China's Liaoning province, and the Shangri-La hotels in Tangshan and Qinhuangdao in North China's Hebei province.

He has worked in front office, housekeeping and other departments during his career.

Coming back to Shenyang where he previously worked, Zuo said he is awed by the tremendous changes that have taken place in the city.

"I consider Shenyang my second hometown," said the Beijing native.

"I fondly remember the innate straightforwardness of the local people and I'm impressed by the energy and vibrancy of the city.

"The prime location of Shangri-La, Shenyang, and the city's enormous potential and growing economic competitiveness have convinced me that I have come at the right time.

"I believe the hotel will contribute its share to the city's development."

Both Hotel Jen Shenyang and Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang, have a close connection with the city, according to Zuo.

Known as Traders Hotel before March 28, 2015, Hotel Jen Shenyang opened its doors in 1996, as old State-owned enterprises in the city were being reformed and new private companies and foreign-funded companies were coming in, Zuo said.

"The hotel witnessed how the old industrial city gradually opened up to the outside world and defined its level of internationalization in the next decade or so," he added.

Opening for business in August 2013, Shangri-La, Shenyang, approaches localization with an interior design concept inspired by the Shenyang Palace Museum, Zuo said, adding "Shenyang's city flower rose is a heavily used motif".

Zuo said Shangri-La's ethos to "treat guests like family" has been the guiding principle of his professional life.

"That's what sets Shangri-La apart and is also a vital factor behind its ascension to the ranks of world-class hotels." In his capacity as general manager, Zuo said he strives to make sure that all members of staff are able to respond to guests' requests in a timely and decisive manner."Making guests feel at home is the key," he added.

He suggests that guests spend more time exploring the hotel and interact more with the hotel staff so as to fully enjoy the available services.

In Zuo's view, a great hotel is a combination of great things, such as a grand lobby, a pleasant aroma, a nice view, a luxurious spa and delicious food.

But he believes an outstanding hotel fundamentally comes down to outstanding staff.

"Shangri-La is a firm believer in this and is committed to creating a work environment that promotes professional growth and also helps employees achieve their personal goals."