Hospitality Mastery with Desirée Dils

"Leadership is about inspiring and developing those you are in charge of" - Desirée Dils.

I recently had a conversation with Desirée Dils , founder and director of Hospitality Mastery?, as part of my Wellness in Hospitality interview series. Desirée’s career journey—from climbing the ranks in food and beverage to becoming a general manager and now running her own training company—brings a rich perspective on how leadership and wellness connect.

Here’s what stood out for me from our discussion:

Interview Highlights:

1. Self-mastery: Who are you showing up as each day?

Leadership begins with understanding yourself. Desiree shared how essential it is to be aware of who you bring to work daily. Are you leading with a growth mindset, or are you stuck in old habits?

Authenticity and leading by example set the tone for your team. When leaders build self-awareness, they cultivate trust and inspire those around them. This not only enhances team dynamics but also translates into exceptional guest experiences and better business outcomes.

2. Conflict resolution: Tackling issues head-on

Conflict can feel uncomfortable, but Desiree emphasised seeing it as an opportunity for growth. Instead of sidestepping issues, leaders who tackle challenges constructively foster open communication and innovation.

When teams feel heard, they perform at their best. Conflict isn’t about resolving disagreements alone—it’s about building a foundation of understanding and collaboration.

3. Team commitment: Equipping and inspiring your team

Clear goals, continuous training, and the right tools are the pillars of team success. For wellness leaders, this means focusing not only on practical resources but also on softer skills like empathy and effective communication. Desiree highlighted the importance of adapting training methods to individual learning styles, ensuring every team member feels equipped to thrive.

Leadership isn’t defined by a title—it’s about how we show up daily for our teams and our guests.

When you focus on trust, self-awareness, and development, leaders create an environment where everyone rises to the occasion. And when teams succeed, everyone benefits—staff, guests, and the overall business.

Are you ready to take wellness to the next level?

Here are 2 ways I can help:

1?? WHO: Wellness directors who want to join 1% of wellness leaders

?? WHAT: The Wellness Asset Academy

A 10-week online group programme where I guide you through my 7-step ESSENCE framework. Achieve higher pay and secure a genuine seat at the hotel’s big table—so wellness is no longer the most neglected area in the hotel.

→ Join the waitlist here.

2?? WHO: Owners of small, independent hotels with a strong wellbeing focus

?? WHAT: Asset Builder Mentorship

Exclusive 6-month 1:1 mentorship programme to master creating a wellness asset, build a proud team, and deliver transformative experiences for your guests.

→ Become a steward of true hospitality.

?? Why work with me?

I know what works with wellness and I also know what doesn’t. I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t need to – saving you thousands of dollars on bad decisions.

? #1 best-selling author, global wellness expert

? 40+ projects in 20+ countries across Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific

? Top brands: Abadía Retuerta, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Accor, Six Senses Resorts & Spas

? Interviewed over 150+ hoteliers worldwide