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Hospitality Connect: Sharing Hospitality Excellence at the Peninsula Paris
Jan 23, 2026 -
On 14 January 2026, École Ferrières once again brought together the leading figures of luxury hospitality for a new edition of Hospitality Connect, held in the prestigious setting of the Peninsula Paris. An iconic venue, perfectly reflecting the inspiring exchanges that took place, where elegance, expertise, and excellence naturally came together.
Hosted by Louis-Félix Communeau and Willem van Rossem, this event gathered high-level professionals eager to share their vision of luxury, leadership, and the future of the hospitality industry. The speakers included Vincent Pimont, Dagmar Woodward, and Gaëlle Guyot – three career paths, three perspectives, yet one shared conviction: hospitality is, above all, a human adventure.
Vincent Pimont opened the discussion by highlighting what he considers the true beauty of the sector: travel, encounters, and the discovery of cultures and people. “If you love people, you will thrive,” he emphasised. He underlined a key definition of contemporary luxury: a luxury of human connections, bespoke experiences, and subtle details that are deeply felt. True luxury lies not in the walls or furnishings, but in the “software” – the emotion, relationships, and attention given to each guest. He also stressed the pivotal role of the General Manager, who is both a human conductor and a guarantor of financial performance, noting that career paths leading to this position are now diverse – from marketing, HR, or finance, not just traditional operations.
Dagmar Woodward continued the reflection on leadership and management. For her, everything begins with the ability to lead and inspire teams. Her message to the students was clear and empowering: dare, don’t be afraid, and take the leap. In a world where technology and artificial intelligence are increasingly present, she reminded everyone that authentic luxury can never be automated. Human connection, listening, and empathy remain irreplaceable.
Gaëlle Guyot highlighted the collective dimension of the profession. The magic of hospitality, she explained, lies in the sense of belonging and the constant support of the team. Luxury is about offering unique experiences that cannot be had anywhere else. It is also a mindset: never say no, but always find a solution, with creativity and commitment.
Beyond the presentations, Hospitality Connect stood out for the remarkable involvement of École Ferrières students. Active participants in the event, they contributed to its organisation and engaged fully in the discussions, asking insightful questions to these industry leaders. A direct, sincere, and educational dialogue, true to the Ferrières pedagogy: learning through real-world experience, alongside those shaping the hospitality of today and tomorrow.
Held twice a year in the most beautiful Parisian venues, Hospitality Connect embodies École Ferrières’ commitment to creating tangible bridges between academia and professional excellence. These privileged gatherings nurture ambitions, strengthen connections, and highlight the power of partnerships with leading luxury and hospitality brands.
In an exceptional setting, guided by values of excellence, knowledge-sharing, and boldness, Hospitality Connect once again demonstrated that luxury is never static. It is lived, shared, and built – above all – through the people who bring it to life.
Finally, this event could not have achieved such success without the dedication and professionalism of the École Ferrières teams. Their commitment, both in the preparation and on the day, ensured Hospitality Connect met the high expectations of the venue and the speakers, in a spirit of excellence, precision, and attention to detail. Thanks to their collective effort, this event fully embodied the values upheld by Ferrières: rigour, elegance, and a passion for luxury hospitality.
Testimonials
All around the world, our Alumni share what Ferrières has brought to their journey: strong skills, an audacious vision, and above all, an unforgettable human adventure. Their testimonials embody what it means to learn, to dare, and to grow in a school like no other.
What makes Ferrières different is its proximity and support. Whether it's a teacher or a principal, everyone is there when you need them. You're never alone when facing difficulties: you're supported and guided toward solutions.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
Arriving just as the school was celebrating its second anniversary, I spent the entire Bachelor's program with them. Three wonderful years punctuated by encounters, experiences, and professional development. Not everything is perfect, but the teams work every day to get closer to it.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School was a real favorite. The teachers share their passion and experience, which adds real value to the course. Thanks to the PAP, professional integration is facilitated, with real support throughout the program.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
Great experience within the School, I appreciate the Masterclasses that we can benefit from thanks to the intervention of professionals in gastronomy and hospitality.
C.,
Diplomeo Review
I chose to enter Ferrières in September 2018 for my first year of my Bachelor's degree. The supervision is effective and the ecosystem allows us to become professionals in the various restaurants and accommodation services, which is very enriching for our future in this vast sector.
S.,
Diplomeo Review
Ferrières is a real adventure, marked by three years of encounters, laughter, and learning. I thought I'd have to change, but the school simply pushes us to grow. My advice: be yourself, have fun, and give your best—here, personal excellence is the norm.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
What can I say about Ferrières? After three years at this splendid school, I realize how far I've come. I found much more than friends there: a true family. The teaching allowed me to improve, but also to mature. Ferrières, I will miss you.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
A truly enriching experience, marked by wonderful encounters, both personal and professional. Wonderful events were also organized at the château, making the journey even more memorable.
C.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School is a real opportunity thanks to its unique positioning in the luxury sector. In addition to quality teaching, it offers access to prestigious events in Paris and at the château, while allowing students to concretely plan their future careers.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
I don't regret choosing Ferrières: I thrive here and learn alongside passionate professionals. The school offers real opportunities, like the Career Summit and masterclasses. The administration is attentive, and student life, driven by the Student Union, is very dynamic.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
As a student at Ferrières, I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to further their education in hospitality, gastronomy, and luxury. The courses are enriching, the immersion in the ecosystem is invaluable, and I'm proud to be a part of it.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School has allowed me to gain skills, maturity, and rigor. Thanks to the quality of the courses and the instructors, I feel ready for the professional world. Studying at such a prestigious institution is a real opportunity.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
As a Master's student, I recommend this school to those who want to fully invest themselves and learn alongside professionals to grow, both personally and professionally.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
I don't regret my choice: the courses live up to the school's prestige, and I'm proud to be part of the Ferrières adventure. Discovering the restaurant and gastronomy professions is both ambitious and exciting.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
After two years in Ferrières, I am completely satisfied with my choice. The training is comprehensive, the setting is ideal, and the internships at the Meliá Paris La Défense and the St. Regis Bora Bora were very enriching.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
An ambitious experience that I don't regret. A gateway to a promising career! A school unlike any other in the world.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School is ideal for developing skills in luxury hospitality and gastronomy. I highly recommend it!
L.,
Diplomeo Review
I'm enjoying my experience at Ferrières, which is supported by an ideal setting and passionate teachers. The school, young and growing, offers a solid network for joining major institutions in France and abroad.
E.,
Diplomeo Review
Having been a student at Ferrières for three years, I can say that it's a school of life that has taught me a lot, both professionally and personally. The professors are all experienced professionals. I don't regret my choice.
C.,
Diplomeo Review