New paths in the management of the Hotel Krone Thun
"It's time to look back on a period that has shaped us. Janine Wolf, our long-standing director, has turned our hotel into a modern and charming restaurant in Thun. Her modern management with a focus on authentic employer branding has optimally equipped Krone for the future. Her retirement marks the end of an era characterized by outstanding commitment and visionary contributions.
A look into the future of Krone
The future is full of anticipation as Melanie Fontana, our experienced Vice Director, takes over the position of Director. Together with Dirk Wunderlich, our long-standing Chef de Service, as the new Vice Director, they form a strong management duo. Urs & Andrea Hauenstein, the owners, are convinced that the new management team will successfully continue the Krone philosophy. In the following interview, Melanie Fontana shares her motivation and vision for the future of the Hotel Krone Thun.
What visions do you have for Krone?
"As the next director of Krone Thun, I am building on the existing direction of recent years. I see a promising future in which tradition and innovation go hand in hand. My main goal is to preserve the rich history and cultural significance of the house, while exploring new ways to expand and modernize our offerings. This includes an increased focus on sustainable practices in all areas of our operation to not only be environmentally conscious, but also to support the local community and economy."
Regionality is a keyword in the corporate philosophy of Krone. You originally come from the Emmental - what brought you to the Bernese Oberland?
"I grew up in a small village on the edge of the Emmental. During my training as a service specialist in Interlaken, at the small 4**** Hotel Stella Interlaken, I got to know the beautiful Bernese Oberland, which has stayed with me to this day. I was enchanted by the lake and the mountains. For me, there is nothing better than taking a walk by the lake in spring, when the snow is still on the mountain peaks. So, it's probably no wonder that I find Krone directly below Thun Castle to be the perfect place for me to work."
What motivated you to become the director of the hotel Krone ?
"Over the past three years, I've been working as an assistant director at Krone and have not only got to know the challenges, but also the incredible potential of this hotel.
Thanks to the good and intensive cooperation with Janine, this time has sharpened my ability to respond effectively to hurdles such as a shortage of skilled workers, rising costs or environmental issues and to use them as opportunities for growth and commitment in the industry. "
You mention the shortage of skilled workers in the hotel industry, what is your position on this issue?
"We need to create a working environment that not only attracts talent, but also retains them in the hotel in the long term. This includes fair working conditions, opportunities for further training and a culture that emphasizes team spirit and appreciation - we already have a very strong sense of this at Krone . This is why we are only affected by the shortage of skilled workers to a very limited extent. I want to strengthen and expand a working environment like this at Krone .
"I am convinced that there are talented and motivated specialists in the industry"
We need to promote passion for the profession and the strengths of our employees and invest in the future of young people. That's why training young talent is essential in the catering industry. We offer apprenticeships in every department and we also offer taster days. In this way, we can give young people the opportunity to get to know the professions in the hotel and catering industry."
How would you describe your management style? Is there a golden rule for you?
"I prefer a cooperative management style based on communication, transparency and trust. I believe that a team works best when everyone can contribute their ideas and develop further. There is therefore one golden rule from my point of view - I clearly lead with a situational management style, meaning that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach. As a manager, I have to adapt to the skills and willingness of my employees and to the specific requirements of the situation. As I mentioned, I am convinced that responding to needs and preferences increases employee satisfaction and commitment to the company. So yes, my golden rule is
"Communication at eye level"
This requires both sides, the management team as my support but also the openness of the employees - the employees of Krone already appreciate this and I continue to expect it."
Her management team seems to be an important part of her decision to take over the management of Hotel Krone .
"Absolutely! When I was preparing for the management position, I realized how important it was to have strong support for my previous position as Vice Director. Dirk Wunderlich, with his many years of experience as Chef de Service at Krone , is well known to me, as is the indispensable role of Urs and Andrea Hauenstein, the owners, who lay the foundations. I greatly appreciate their trust in my abilities. But it's not just about individuals; the entire Krone team behind me is the real key to success."
What do you think makes the Krone team special?
"The exceptional team spirit! Our employer branding
"We are anything but boring"
perfectly reflects what a diverse and creative bunch we are. What makes our employees so special is their willingness to get involved, share their ideas and be an integral part of what makes Krone special.
They are not just employees; they are part of our identity and play a key role in shaping the atmosphere and culture of our company. I am deeply grateful and proud of every single team member. They are the ones who make Krone a vibrant, inspiring place."
Finally, what can guests expect in the near future?
"Our team is doing everything it can to ensure that our guests have more time for the finer things in life. Be it a restful night, a varied menu or simply a friendly "Grüessech". At the end of the day, there is nothing better than creating lasting memories. Let yourself be inspired and take the time for a special experience with us at Krone Thun."
