Zannier Hotels is excited to announce the nomination of Emmanuel Blanchemanche as the General Manager of the upcoming Zannier Bendor. Emmanuel will officially start his role on May 5th 2025, leading the 93-key hotel project through its pre-opening phase and continuing to oversee hotel operations after the official opening in May 2026.

A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE IN LUXURY HOSPITALITY
Emmanuel Blanchemanche is an experienced and versatile executive with strong leadership skills, excelling in both operational and revenue aspects within the hospitality industry. With over two decades of experience, Emmanuel holds a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality & Catering Management from the Ecole Hôtelière de Strasbourg (1994-1997), providing him with a well-rounded and in-depth knowledge of luxury hospitality. He brings extensive experience from luxury hotels openings across France and internationally. Most recently, he served as the General Manager of Les Roches Blanches Hotel in Cassis since March 2022, where he notably supervised the affiliation to Virtuoso and received the 2 Michelin keys reward. Prior to this, he held leadership roles at several distinguished fivestar establishments, including Domaine de Verchant Hôtel & Spa, a Relais & Châteaux in Montpellier (June 2019 – February 2022), and Le Roch Hôtel & Spa in Paris (June 2015 – June 2019). Emmanuel also honed his skills in Paris as the Assistant General Manager at Hôtel Prince de Galles (September 2008 - May 2015).

In the crucial months leading up to Zanier Bendor's grand opening, the newly appointed General Manager will spearhead all preparatory efforts, including overseeing the final stages of construction, recruiting and training a top-tier team, implementing Zannier Hotels' exceptional service standards, coordinating the official opening, and ensuring seamless day-to-day operations to guarantee an unforgettable experience for our esteemed guests from the moment we open our doors.

“Given his deep knowledge of the Provence region, his successful previous experiences as a General Manager, and his understanding of the Zannier DNA rooted in simple and humble luxury, I am confident in Emmanuel's ability to lead Zannier Bendor to success.” commented Arnaud Zannier, CEO of Zannier Hotels. “His experience encompasses managing human-size boutique hotels, enhancing guest satisfaction, supervising multiple F&B outlets, leading large wellness centers, and overseeing MICE operations, making him an exceptional fit for this role.”

SETTING THE STAGE FOR EUROPE'S MOST ANTICIPATED OPENING OF 2026
Emmanuel is eagerly anticipating the challenge of opening Zannier Bendor and is thrilled to collaborate with Zannier Hotels on this exciting project. Set to become a destination in itself, Zannier Bendor will be a year-round haven for guests and locals alike, blending art, design, artisanal crafts, culinary delights, immersive experiences, wellness, and culture. The goal is to transform the island into a welcoming space for everyone – from hotel guests to locals enjoying a meal, families savoring ice cream on the beach, and those seeking wellness treatments.

Emmanuel shares his vision: “I aim for Zannier Bendor to be the most anticipated opening of the year in Europe in 2026. Our objective is to write a new chapter for the island of Bendor, making it a standout and unique Mediterranean destination while honoring its strong legacy. We strive to breathe new life into the spirit of conviviality and sharing, values cherished by Paul Ricard and his family.”

MORE ABOUT ILE DE BENDOR
Just 300 meters off the coast of Bandol at the doorstep of the Côte d'Azur lies Île de Bendor, a 7-hectare fragment of land floating in the Mediterranean, measuring 700 meters long and 220 meters wide. Purchased in 1950 by visionary entrepreneur and pastis pioneer Paul Ricard, the island became his canvas for an ideal Mediterranean lifestyle; a miniature world of hedonism, art, and leisure. In the 60's, Ricard had transformed the once-stony isle into a vibrant cultural and social hub, where locals, families, and celebrities alike gathered to enjoy its harbour, leisure facilities, beaches, and charming Provençal architecture. Deeply rooted in conviviality, nature, and craftsmanship, Île de Bendor has long embodied a genuine and laid-back approach to hospitality. Now, more than 70 years since Ricard first set foot on its shores, the island is poised for a bold revival. In a partnership between Société Paul Ricard and Zannier Hotels, this iconic private island is undergoing a thoughtful transformation honouring its founder's legacy while embracing a contemporary vision. Reopening in May 2026, Zannier Bendor is set to reemerge as a year-round creative and cultural destination, capturing the imagination of a new generation of modern travellers.

MORE ABOUT ZANNIER HOTELS
Zannier Hotels creates one-of-a-kind stays and experiences, united by a desire to inspire Life's Greatest Stories. Our hotels celebrate the beauty of simplicity, the return to simple pleasures and appreciation of adventure, gastronomy and nature. Echoing the spirit of their surroundings, each new destination enraptures every sense, inviting our guests to experience enriching exchanges with local traditions, cultures and communities. Today, we
embrace a collection of five properties and seven private estates in Europe, Africa and Asia. Our journey and desire to share unforgettable moments continues with Zannier Bendor in the South of France, due to open in spring 2026 and Zannier Zardun in Saudi Arabia scheduled for 2028, and further projects considered in Europe.

CONTACTS
If you have any questions or would like to request materials such as photos or interview opportunities, please contact Quentin Guiraud, Group PR & Communication Manager, at qguiraud@zannier.com. For inquiries related to operations at Zannier Bendor, Emmanuel Blanchemanche is available at gm.bendor@zannier.com. For recruitment-related matters, please reach out to career.bendor@zannier.com.

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About Zannier Bendor