Sofitel Montreal Concierge Elected President of Prestigious Les Clefs d'Or

Reflecting Sofitel's ongoing dedication to providing excellence in guest satisfaction, as well as the French standard of unmatched service, Casale was honored with the distinction during the 58th Annual UICH Les Clefs d'Or International Congress, held May 2 in Toronto, Canada.

Connecting the world to French elegance in each of its 120 properties worldwide, Sofitel Luxury Hotels and its ambassadors have always placed a strong emphasis on personalized service, with a decidedly French flair. The properties' individual concierges, such as Sofitel Montreal's Virginia Casale, carry on this magnifique brand vision for guests, whether it is a simple greeting of bonjour, a nearby restaurant suggestion or the fulfillment of a lavish request. With Casale's appointment to President of Les Clefs d'Or, her new status helps exemplify guest standards at all Sofitel properties and highlights the brand's strategic "art de vivre" experience.

With more than 25 years of experience in the guest services industry and a member of Les Clefs d'Or for more than 20 years, Virginia Casale is the first Canadian woman to be appointed worldwide president and the second woman to hold the position. She has worked at many of Canada's premier hotels and has served as a concierge at the Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile since 2002, as well as president of the Canadian chapter of Les Clefs d'Or.

"It is my esteemed honor to lead this organization on behalf of Sofitel," said Virginia Casale, newly appointed President of Les Clefs d'Or. "Throughout the Sofitel worldwide - network, we have always placed an emphasis on unparalleled service for our guests, creating a legacy not only for the brand, but also for that of our French heritage. I look forward to sharing this foundation and our brand's tradition of excellence with the international community of Les Clefs d'Or."

Throughout the Sofitel Luxury Hotels network there are currently 70 esteemed concierges who are members of Les Clefs d'Or, with many earning leadership roles within the organization. At this year's Congress, Robert Gaymer-Jones, CEO of Sofitel Luxury Hotels and more than 30 concierges within the Sofitel network traveled to Toronto, Canada from properties in South America, Europe and Asia, making Sofitel the most widely represented hotel brand at the prestigious annual event. Founded in Paris in 1952, Les Clefs d'Or spans more than 50 countries worldwide and includes more than 4,000 members who pride themselves on providing guests with the highest quality of service and commitment. To apply to the organization, members must undergo a rigorous application process which evaluates and tests each applicant's level of experience, commitment to the organization, and letters of recommendation.