Maxime Brun Appointed General Manager at Les Bateaux Belmond

Published on November 20, 2025

Les Bateaux Belmond, a renowned luxury riverboat brand, has announced the appointment of Maxime Brun as the new General Manager, effective from October 13, 2025. In his new role, Maxime will be responsible for overseeing the strategic management and operations of the company. His key focus will be to enhance both the guest and employee experiences across Belmond’s fleet of seven riverboats that cruise the scenic rivers of France. This appointment underscores Les Bateaux Belmond’s commitment to its Slow Luxury philosophy, which offers travelers an immersive journey that blends the leisurely pace of travel with the rich local culture and breathtaking landscapes of France.

Maxime’s appointment is part of Belmond’s ongoing effort to maintain its position as a leader in luxury river cruising, offering guests unparalleled experiences. His extensive expertise and vision for hospitality are expected to contribute significantly to the brand’s mission of providing a unique, intimate, and highly personal style of travel.

Bringing Valuable Experience to Les Bateaux Belmond

Maxime Brun joins Les Bateaux Belmond with an impressive background in hospitality and management, having spent years honing his skills in various leadership roles within the industry. Prior to his appointment, Maxime was the Director General at Château Saint Laurent, a prestigious property located in the South of France. During his four-year tenure, Maxime gained valuable insights into high-end management practices, hospitality operations, and guest relations, experiences he will bring with him to his new role at Les Bateaux Belmond.

Before his time at Château Saint Laurent, Maxime held the position of Director for France at Pink Lady Europe, a non-profit organization that champions quality and sustainability among apple producers. His role at Pink Lady Europe further enriched his expertise in managing brand reputation, sustainability, and strategic development, all of which align well with Les Bateaux Belmond’s commitment to sustainable and thoughtful travel experiences.

Maxime’s early career also includes eight years working in the sales and marketing teams at Nestlé France, where he developed a strong foundation in brand strategy, customer experience, and market analysis. This period of his career allowed him to build a deep understanding of how to connect luxury brands with discerning clientele and how to elevate a brand’s presence in competitive markets.

Returning to His Roots: A Personal Connection

Maxime Brun’s roots in the region make his appointment even more significant. He hails from Saint-Jean-de-Losne, the very town that serves as the home base for Les Bateaux Belmond. For Maxime, this return to his hometown is not only a professional opportunity but also a personal one. His connection to the region and its unique riverboat culture adds a layer of authenticity to his leadership, as he is deeply familiar with the local traditions, landscapes, and people that make Les Bateaux Belmond’s experiences so special.

The fact that Maxime is returning to his roots adds a personal dimension to his leadership style. His deep knowledge of the area, combined with his extensive professional background, allows him to approach his new role with both a sense of passion and a strategic mindset. Maxime’s return to Saint-Jean-de-Losne symbolizes a full-circle moment in his career, bringing together his personal history and professional expertise to create memorable experiences for guests.

Strengthening Belmond’s Commitment to Slow Luxury

Les Bateaux Belmond is known for its Slow Luxury ethos, a concept that encourages guests to slow down and immerse themselves in their surroundings. This philosophy encourages travelers to embrace a slower, more intentional pace of exploration, allowing them to connect with the local culture and environment. Maxime’s leadership will further strengthen this approach, ensuring that guests on Les Bateaux Belmond’s riverboats experience the very best of France’s countryside, culture, and gastronomy.

With his extensive experience in luxury hospitality and his focus on guest experience, Maxime is expected to enhance the overall journey for those embarking on the river cruises. From curated excursions to personalized services, his leadership will ensure that every aspect of the riverboat experience reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence and authenticity.

Maxime’s expertise in brand strategy and customer engagement, honed through his past roles, will enable him to implement innovative strategies that align with Belmond’s mission of providing bespoke, high-end experiences. His focus on creating meaningful connections with guests will help reinforce the company’s standing as a leader in luxury travel.

A New Chapter for Les Bateaux Belmond

Maxime Brun’s appointment marks a new chapter for Les Bateaux Belmond as the company continues to grow its presence in the luxury river cruise sector. The brand’s fleet of riverboats offers a unique and intimate way to explore France, providing guests with a distinctive travel experience that combines the charm of classic river cruising with the luxury and sophistication that Belmond is known for.

Under Maxime’s leadership, Les Bateaux Belmond will continue to elevate its offerings and set new standards for luxury river cruising. His strategic vision and commitment to operational excellence will guide the brand as it continues to attract discerning travelers seeking a slower, more enriching way to explore the French rivers.

Maximizing the Belmond Experience for Guests

Les Bateaux Belmond prides itself on delivering a personalized and immersive travel experience. This is a key element of the brand’s Slow Luxury ethos, which prioritizes relaxation, cultural engagement, and personal connection over rushed itineraries. Maxime Brun’s leadership will ensure that every aspect of the guest experience is thoughtfully curated and executed to the highest standards. His experience in managing luxury properties and brands will allow him to continue refining the offerings aboard the riverboats, ensuring guests receive a seamless and unforgettable experience.

From the onboard dining experiences to the carefully planned shore excursions, Maxime will oversee every detail to ensure that Les Bateaux Belmond maintains its reputation for excellence. His focus on guest satisfaction and attention to detail will play a critical role in ensuring that each journey aboard a Belmond riverboat remains a unique and luxurious experience.