Passion & Team Spirit: Our Hotel Management in Interview

At Fred Tschanz operations, Sabrina Frey and Serge Schwank as Hotel Managers, and Cedric Nake as General Manager, have accompanied particularly exciting changes this year.

In March 2024, Serge Schwank took over the management of Fred Hotels Zurich, succeeding Cedric Nake, who now oversees all hotels in the group as General Manager. Also in March, the Fred Tschanz operations incorporated the Hotel Zürcherhof into the company. Sabrina Frey and the team continue to be key figures on site.

In this conversation, we take a look at career highlights, the challenges of such a dynamic year, and the art of keeping the heart of a hotel always in tune with the times.

Fred Tschanz: How did you get into the hotel industry?

Sabrina: During the career choice phase in school, I already had the desire to work in the hotel industry one day. The path there was ultimately a happy coincidence: After secondary school, I moved to western Switzerland to attend a language school and gain initial work experience. Finding a job as a 15-year-old in Switzerland is difficult – but I persevered. Near where I was living at the time, I discovered a hotel where I spontaneously applied. To my surprise, I was given the opportunity to start an apprenticeship as a hotel specialist. I seized this chance immediately: From the beginning, I was particularly fascinated by the versatility of the job, which challenges both the mind and the body.

Serge: For me, it was a childhood dream: My uncle was a hotel director. When I was little, my family and I would visit him at his resort in Asia. I was fascinated by how he stood in the lobby, organizing everything with charm and expertise. The image captivated me – the energy and ease with which he seemed to manage everything fascinated me. It was clear to me: I want to be like that one day. After school, I attended the hotel management school in Lausanne and worked worldwide in various establishments from England to Sweden to Sri Lanka.

Looking back: Could you have imagined being in this position back then?

Sabrina: Running a small, family-run hotel and creating unforgettable stays for our guests with my team has always been my dream. During my apprenticeship, I never thought I would achieve it so soon – the path was demanding, and I am proud of what I have accomplished.

Serge: I feel the same way. It was always a goal for me to run hotels one day. I sacrificed a lot and worked hard for it. Achieving this goal now makes me proud.

Serge, you have been part of Fred Tschanz since March 2024. What do you remember from this initial period?

Serge: The team gave me a very warm welcome from day one, and I immediately felt at home. My onboarding with Cedric, who now leads Fred Tschanz operations as General Manager, was also special for me. Everything was exceptionally well-structured and personal. I felt the support immediately.

Sabrina and Serge, you started at the same time – the Zürcherhof has also been part of Fred Tschanz operations since March 2024. How was that for you, Sabrina?

Sabrina: The first period was a challenge, but I quickly realized that the Fred Tschanz group, as new owners, keep their promises. I also experience the contact with owner Stéphanie Portmann and CEO Domenic Zembrod as very warm, and you can feel that there is a lot of commitment from their side as well.

What makes the atmosphere of the operations you lead so special for you?

Sabrina: The heart of the Zürcherhof is the team. We are like a family, and the guests feel that too. The closeness between guests and staff is unique – many regular guests have known us for years.

Serge: I agree. The team is also at the center of Fred Hotels Zurich. We work hard and professionally but often laugh together.

Serge, when did you realize that Fred Tschanz operations are the right place for you?

Serge: The warm team gave me a positive feeling from day one. I also quickly realized that we are in tune with the times. I was able to tackle exciting projects with the team, such as the physiotherapeutic support for the housekeeping team.  I realized that this is a unique place that always strives to improve and promotes talent.

Sabrina, when did you realize that things were going well under the new management of Fred Tschanz operations?

Sabrina: In the first few weeks, it became clear that a well-planned transition was underway, focused on the well-being of both the team and the guests. Not everything was turned upside down. The Fred Tschanz team approached us thoughtfully and introduced changes gradually, without causing disruption. This allowed the staff to adjust at their own pace.

It was an eventful year for your teams as well. How do you keep the morale high?

Sabrina: For me, it was clear: I wanted to stay strong for the team. So we all motivated each other. It’s also important to me that we feel united – pitching in and listening to each other.

Serge: In my opinion, by leading by example and demonstrating the standards I expect from my team.

As hotel managers, you are both in the same position, just in different operations. How do you experience working together?

Serge: I admire Sabrina’s tireless commitment to the team and the hotel. From the beginning, I noticed that she is someone who not only accepts responsibility but truly lives it. I greatly appreciate our open exchange and support on various levels.

Sabrina: I can only return the compliment. I have been in the position longer and find it impressive how he has handled the challenges of his start while always keeping the team and the vision in focus. He is very helpful and always has an open ear.