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People
28 August 2025

Women of Brummell: Claudia Schwarze

Words: 
Imogen Almond
People
28 August 2025

Women of Brummell: Claudia Schwarze

Words: 
Imogen Almond

Can you tell us what first inspired you to pursue a path in luxury travel and hotel management?

My journey into luxury hospitality began in Hong Kong. Growing up there, I was immersed in a world where legendary properties like the Peninsula and the Mandarin Oriental set the gold standard. In fact, it was my father who first encouraged me to consider this path as he could see I had a passion for people and culture early on.

What were some of the defining moments in your career that led you to Trisara?

I had the privilege of working with Aman [resorts] during its formative period, which taught me so much about soul and hospitality. Each chapter of my career has deepened my belief that luxury is not about excess, but about meaning. That’s what ultimately drew me to Trisara. The opportunity to steward its next chapter felt like a perfect convergence of everything I’ve learned throughout my life and career. 

Claudia Schwarze

You’ve launched a new culinary direction at Trisara, including five new restaurant concepts. What was your vision behind this transformation?

The vision was to move beyond the expected. Trisara has always had a beautiful spirit, but I felt the culinary offering could become more curated. So aside from our legendary Sunday brunch, we set out to create five distinct concepts: 7.8 Degree North, La Crique, Thai Library, The Wine Cellar and Cielo & Spice. I wanted our guests to feel a renewed sense of discovery. Food has the power to transform perception, and at Trisara, it’s become a cornerstone of our reinvention.

Why is celebrating Thai culinary heritage and local talent such an important part of Trisara’s future?

Because it’s authentic. Thai heritage is one of the richest, most nuanced in the world, yet it’s often simplified. At Trisara, we saw an opportunity to honour that heritage with integrity and depth. Celebrating local talent at all touch points is a natural extension of that. We support Thai heritage across every department, as well as the farmers, producers and artisans who help shape the soul of what we do. We want to be more than a beautiful resort in Thailand. We want to be a living, evolving expression of Thai excellence.

What’s been the most rewarding challenge you’ve faced as a GM and what did it teach you about yourself?

One of the most rewarding (and simultaneously challenging) aspects of being a GM has been moving seamlessly across Asian and European cultures. Each has its own deep-rooted ways of doing business. Early in my career, I realised that what works beautifully in one culture might feel out of place or even counterproductive in another. Navigating this taught me the importance of cultural fluency – not just understanding customs, but truly appreciating different worldviews and communication styles. 

You’re a trailblazer in an industry where over 90 per cent of GMs in Thailand are still male. What barriers have you had to break and how did you navigate them?

Being a woman in an industry and region where over 90 per cent of GMs are male certainly comes with its challenges. Early on it was especially hard, and there still are moments where I have to prove my expertise and leadership not once, but repeatedly.

What advice would you give to women looking to get into leadership roles?

My main piece of advice is to believe deeply in your own potential. It is also important to seek out mentors and allies who support and challenge you. But, crucially, be resilient. Challenges and setbacks will come, but they are part of the journey and part of growth. My favourite book is Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr Seuss – an ode to courage, curiosity and the journey ahead.

The industry needs diverse leaders who can bring fresh ideas and empathy. That’s your power.

trisara.com

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