Our Staff

What makes the soul of the L’Heure Bleue are its "talents". Passionate men and women, dedicated to their professions, happy to be at the service of our customers all day every day.

Born and raised in France and after early years of apprenticeship, Eric Molle’s career in hospitality began at the top – at the prestigious Hotel de Crillon in Paris. After a stint in London he returned to Paris to continue his work in the luxury hotel field at the Pavillon de la Reine. He went on to participate in the opening of the Hotel de Vigny remaining for the three years it took it to obtain Relais & Châteaux status. But the south seas were calling. His subsequent step took him half way around the world to French Polynesia and the Intercontinental Resort and Spa in Moorea and Le Meridien Bora Bora. Next came another long journey - to the Indian Ocean's Mauritius, and Maradiva Villas Resort and Spa. Eric Molle then returned to Europe and a different branch of the hospitality industry, spending three years at Switzerland’s pre-eminent l’Ecole Hôtelière (Hotel School) in Lausanne on the shores of Lake Geneva.

But a desire to return to active hotel-keeping has now brought him to Essaouira in Morocco. As General Manager of Relais & Châteux’s L’Heure Bleue Palais, his rich experience in international luxury and boutique hotels stands him on good stead to bring this jewel-in-the-crown of ancient Mogador to an even higher level of perfection. Energetic, committed, loyal, discreet and obsessed with details, he is fortunate to be surrounded by a solid and competent team dedicated to its guests and to ensuring that L’Heure Bleue Palais attains an unprecedented example of excellence appreciated not only in Essaouira but throughout Morocco.

Following his studies in France and Morocco, M’Barek began his career at Heure Bleue Palais as Chef de Rang in 2004. Ten years later he is the director of the entire department. He organises and directs his team with expertise, conveying the true meaning of attentive service and attention to detail. His good sense of humour is legendary and he seems to be always around – from breakfast through to dinner, M’Barek meets and exceeds clients’ expectations with utter professionalism and attentiveness.

Ahmed’s passion is to please. Proud of his country, his home, team, suppliers and products. Dedicated, humble and with a talent as rich as his character. Originally from Beni Mellal in Morocco, Ahmed is totally dedicated to his profession and is now a true ambassador of modern Moroccan cookery – his signature is a creative, exciting cuisine that always remains respectful of his country’s culinary heritage. Chef Ahmed proposes ‘Friday nights at Heure Bleue’, honouring the Oriental tradition of delicious couscous, on Saturdays a new ‘Discovery’ menu is offered, paired with a different Moroccan wine every week. Ahmed opens his kitchen for cookery classes too, as he loves to share his culinary secrets, tips and special recipes with guests.

Caring, generous and omnipresent, Ghizlan is an exceptional housekeeper. Rooms are checked daily with utmost discretion and efficiency. Her responsiveness is exemplary, her smile is infectious. Rarely seen and always around, rigorous and with a fine eye for detail, Ghizlan ensures a comfortable stay throughout.

Ikram takes you on a journey of wonders at our ‘Petit Spa’ at L’Heure Bleue. Mastering the ancient Moroccan rituals perfectly, she invites guests to discover themselves. She specializes in discussing and recommending treatments, arranging hammam sessions, massages and scrubs. Our guests find her guidance thoroughly addictive! Here in the country of Argan oil, black soap and precious essential oils, you will be captivated by the attributes of these natural products and their renowned North African applications.

Hicham Kajmar is the man of the shadow, the one we often need, discreet but effective. The protection of the planet and energy savings are his everyday life but he will also know, how to select your favorite TV channel, release your safe in case you have forgetten the code… In short he ensures the smooth daily running of the hotel facilities. Also known as the ‘little doctor’ of L’Heure Bleue Palais, we know that all is well when we do not see him - and when he is around we know that things will only get better!