The founder of Four Seasons Hotels shares the philosophy and values that have made his legendary brandHow did a child of immigrants, starting with no background in the hotel business, create the world's most admired and successful hotel chain? And how has Four Seasons grown dramatically, over nearly a half century, without losing its focus on exceptional quality and unparalleled service? Isadore Sharp answers these questions in his engaging memoir, which doubles as a powerful guide for leaders in any field. He recalls the surprising history of his company, starting with its roots in his father's small construction business, which Sharp joined after getting a degree in architecture. Shifting into hotels wasn't easy, and he learned by trial and error. His breakthrough was a vision for a new kind of hotel, featuring superior design, top-quality amenities, and, above all, a deep commitment to service. Sharp realized that customers would gladly pay extra for a "home away from home" experience. But that would be possible only if everyone-from managers and supervisors to bellmen, servers, and housekeepers-was fully engaged. The front-line staff, who have the most contact with guests, can make or break a five-star reputation. Readers will be fascinated to learn how Four Seasons does it, year after year, in more than thirty countries around the world.

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Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy
Talk about a class act. Growing up in a modest family whose patriarch was in the construction business would not necessarily portend what was to become of Isadore Sharp and the Four Seasons Hotel empire he created. From his first hotel, a run of the mill, 125 room motor hotel (motel) in Toronto in 1961, to building and managing an operation that includes 83 of the some of the world's most impressive properties across 35 countries, Sharp has instilled a philosophy that puts service and luxury above all else for the sophisticated world traveller. As this book describes, his personal story and philosophy is in seemless continuity with his product. Sharp describes his early days converting from a business of building mid-level apartment buildings in the Toronto area, to one day pursuing a small motel opportunity that would change his life. His first Four Seasons motor hotel (the name came from a luxury German brand, the Vier Jahrzeiten). He built a second Toronto hotel, the Inn on the Park with more luxury in mind (even a gym!) when he suddenly found himself meeting with executives at super-conglomerate ITT Corporation about building their flagship hotel, the Four Season Sheraton in downtown Toronto. It was after his `quality' philosophy (and nearing bankruptcy on another deal) got shut down by the Sheraton rulers that a still young Sharp decided he would never work for another company again. He vowed to run his business with his own philosophy; a philosophy that puts customers first and has made the Four Seasons what it is today. Sharp goes on to describe the many deals that he made around the world to bring the Four Seasons brand to every continent (save Antarctica) and how every deal and many innovations are what drive the brand to this day. His story of class, philanthropy (a must read chapter is the one about the Terry Fox charity run) and an overriding dedication to service are what makes the man and the company what they are today. The fact that he was finally able to take his company private again through an equity partnership with Bill Gates and Saudi Arabia's Prince Alwaleed are testament to the type of organization Sharp has built. In short, few would argue with the statement that the name Four Seasons equals `world class.' WIth fascinating details, a full appreciation of the many who have helped him fulfill the dream, Isadore Sharp comes across as a class act in a world of less than perfect business leaders. (The book even has a magnificent array of full color pictures on the inside of the jacket!) Highly recommended. A wonderful read.