Talking to Julio Lopez is like getting a good dose of optimism. His enthusiasm is infectious and listening to him everything seems possible. And that’s just as well, because he helps our students to find the path that is right for them.
Can you share your background with us?
I am from Marbella. I studied in Les Roches Crans-Montana and when I finished I studied with Cordon Bleu. I have studied in countries like: Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, UK, Cambodia, Thailand, Nicaragua, and Tanzania. Always in something related to the F&B department and as an Operations Manager.
What made you want to teach?
Today I work as a Finance teacher, but the truth is that when I joined Les Roches it was as a F&B teacher, without knowing what to expect. But I discovered that I loved teaching!!! Being in class with the students is an amazing feeling.
Why did you choose Les Roches rather than another hotel management school?
Being form Marbella, where there is a Les Roches campus, I always knew that Les Roches was a great school. I decided to go to Crans-Montana campus because I wanted to discover new places.
Being in class with the students is an amazing feeling.
How would you define Les Roches? What makes Les Roches unique?
Les Roches is a family. It is unique because of that. The connection between students and between students and teachers/staff is incredible. More like a family.
Has the atmosphere of Les Roches influenced the way you prepare your courses?
Absolutely. I try to be close to my students and create discussions on topics. To share information and knowledge not only from me but from the rest of the students.
What is your definition of the transmission of knowledge?
You need to be passionate about it to be able to share the knowledge. Your students need to know that you love what you talk about.
Beyond the technical aspect, what do you try to transmit to your students?
Passion and empathy.
Your students need to know that you love what you talk about.
Do you have a secret for getting the best out of each student?
I am very honest and friendly with my students. I believe I am very transparent and they open to me because of that.
In your opinion, are there any fundamental values that a student should possess if he or she wants to work in hotel management?
Passion, empathy and patience.
Be inclusive, be caring, be open. In your opinion, will these notions, which are essential for the new generations, change the face of the hotel industry?
Absolutely. Some hotel companies are still a bit old fashioned in some cases. I believe the new generations will change that and will adapt to what they think is important… and I agree with them. Being inclusive, caring and open should be the normality. Sustainability will be essential as well.
I believe the new generations will change that and will adapt to what they think is important.
In your opinion, what can – and will – the new generations bring to the hotel sector? Or the world of work in general?
Empathy, inclusivity, openness, and honesty.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the hotel sector in 2023?
The hotel sector needs to adapt to the taste of a new generation. Technology will be extremely important and even though the hotel sector adapts to technology, probably they will need to adapt even faster.
The F&B department will need a big change, whereby fresh, local products will be demanded by the new generation of guests. Veganism and sustainability will be two other things the hotel sector will need to consider.
