Simon Rusconi is New General Manager of Prince de Galles, Paris

Over the last few years, the Starwood Luxury Collection has pursued a bold strategy in Europe: a $200 million investment in restoring four iconic properties: Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville; Hotel Maria Cristina in San Sebastian, Prince de Galles in Paris and The Gritti Palace in Venice.

In the latest news out of Paris, the Prince de Galles will reopen in May 2013 after a two-year, top-to-bottom overhaul that aims to restore it to its original “Art Deco splendor” under the expert guidance of designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.

This week Simon Rusconi was appointed General Manger. Educated at the Ecole Hôtelière in Lausanne, this Swiss native got his start at the Royal Hawaiian in 1996, and has spent the last 20 years globetrotting to various hotel management positions around the world. He said, “My main goal is to provide new and regular guests with a welcoming ambience as if they are home, as well as invite them to discover the city’s hidden treasures and rich heritage, unveiling a mosaic of exceptional experiences in Paris.”

Restaurant buzz: the hotel’s executive chef will be Stéphanie Le Quellec, winner of the popular TV show, Top Chef (the French version).

Built in 1928 during the Art Deco movement, the Prince de Galles is located on Avenue George V in the heart of the prestigious “Golden Triangle” in Paris. For more information, visit www.princedegallesparis.com.