Excitement, curiosity, and a minor tie crisis – that’s how Matthias Seitenaden’s first day at SHL began. Luckily, a fellow student helped him with the knot. Today, he looks back and describes SHL as a “little universe for everyone who loves hospitality” – inspiring, demanding, and full of community spirit. Legendary, in his memory, are the parties after exams and the fits of laughter with his classmates.
His career path took him via the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois and the Krafft Group to AMAN. First as Duty Manager, later as Rooms Division Manager, Matthias took on responsibility at Amanjena in Marrakech – with a stint at the pre-opening of Aman Rosa Alpina. Not one day is the same: espresso, team meetings, ensuring guest satisfaction, optimizing processes, and an evening walk through the resort. Currently, he is working on streamlining operations in the Rooms Division – small steps, big impact.
In his private life, Matthias enjoys the vibrant life of Marrakech: the alleys of the Medina, the markets, the hidden teahouses, and above all, the sunsets over the city. Swiss chocolate is a must in his fridge – and on his rooftop terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains, he recharges his energy.
And SHL? It remains his foundation – a place where he found community, team spirit, and inspiration. Today, he brings exactly these values into the ultra-luxury world of AMAN.
First SHL day Excitement, curiosity and disorientation! Everything was new – the people, the environment and, of course, the expectations. I remember trying to tie my tie when we received our service uniforms. I had no idea how! Luckily, Nicolas helped me.
The SHL is ...more than just a school – it's a small universe for everyone who loves the hotel industry. SHL is inspiration, challenge and community all at once. Sometimes exhausting, very enriching, and an experience that shapes you!
Most beautiful moment Definitely the legendary parties and celebrating together after each successful semester! It's that feeling of relief, pride and genuine teamwork that brings everyone together. Finally being able to breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate together after weeks of studying – that's what makes your time at SHL unforgettable.
I will never forget it! The many moments when we laughed until we cried! Those fits of laughter got us through so many stressful days.
What I miss Definitely living together and the unique team spirit at SHL. The time spent together outside of class, the little inside jokes and the feeling that we were all in the same boat.
What I particularly like about where I live The lively atmosphere and the colours, smells and sounds that make Marrakech so unique. Every day I discover something new here – whether in the narrow streets of the medina, at the bustling markets or over a relaxing cup of tea in one of the hidden courtyards. Marrakech has this special blend of tradition and modernity that is simply inspiring. And the sunsets over the city? They are simply magical!
Always in the fridge Swiss chocolate, of course!
Relaxing after a busy day Sitting on my roof terrace with a good book and enjoying the sunset over Marrakech
When I'm not working You'll find me at a pool in one of the other 5-star resorts, or in the best restaurants in town, sampling the delicious cuisine. I love discovering new culinary experiences and enjoying the atmosphere in these locations!
Milestone(s) I am currently Rooms Division Manager, and that is definitely a major milestone in my career. It has been an exciting journey to get here, with many educational experiences and challenges along the way. Every successfully completed project and the positive feedback from my guests are small personal milestones for me.
My job in three words Diverse, challenging, fulfilling.
Daily routine No two days are the same. However, my day starts with an espresso and a look at my emails. Then I start a meeting with my team, where we exchange creative ideas to offer our guests the best possible experience. I spend the day passionately ensuring guest satisfaction, coordinating and optimising work processes, and solving problems. At the end of the day, I take a tour of the resort and enjoy what we have created together and the breathtaking atmosphere!
Current projects There are so many exciting projects we are working on. At the moment, however, the focus is on optimising workflows in the rooms area. We are analysing processes to increase efficiency while also improving guest satisfaction. It's exciting to see how small adjustments can have a big impact and bring our team even closer together!
Still want to achieve I want to further develop my leadership skills. I also aim to develop new innovative concepts for guest services that will further set our resort apart from others. In the long term, my goal would be to manage an AMAN.
Favourite Restaurant Plus61 here in Marrakec
Favourite Hotel Aman Venice
Me as a guest Can usually be found in the restaurant.
I appreciate Above all, I value honesty and authenticity. Whether in service or in dealing with people, I think it's great when people are just themselves.
No-go to It's disappointing when, as a guest, you feel like you're just a number and not really being noticed.
This should change I think the hotel industry should place more emphasis on authenticity and personal connections. Often you get the feeling that everything is very standardised, but it's the small, individual gestures that make a stay unforgettable. At AMAN, we attach great importance to this!
Makes me laugh I have many funny and wonderful moments with my guests, where we laugh a lot together.
This person I admire I admire my guests very often! It's impressive to see how different they are, with their own stories and experiences
Last holiday destination Bella Italia!
Dream Holiday Destination Tokyo
Catchy Tune „Hotel California“ von Eagles – legendary!
Discovery My new flat in Marrakech! The green roof terrace with a view of the Atlas Mountains. The perfect place to unwind after a long day and enjoy the sunset.