Born under the golden sun of Provence in France, Guillaume Hapian carries with him the timeless elegance of French savoir-faire. Forged in the world’s most prestigious hotels, his career reflects a rare blend of expertise and refinement. With his mastery of luxury hospitality and a natural warmth that inspires those around him, Guillaume is as much a mentor as he is a leader.
Renowned for his patience and determination, Guillaume has guided and inspired countless professionals, uniting a generous heart with an unwavering pursuit of excellence. At Printemps New York, his leadership was instrumental from the very first steps preparing the launch and recruiting more than 120 talents for the corporate and retail parts.
More than HR, Guillaume is a true ambassador of hospitality, embodying rigor and generosity while elevating the art of service to its most human and refined expression.
A remarkable transition from the InterContinental New York Times Square and joining the project in late October 2024, Guillaume was one of the very first employees, shaping the team and ensuring all employees reflect the elevated standards and French savoir-faire that define Printemps.
Printemps New York is not just a store, it’s one of the city’s most prestigious destinations, where luxury, art, culture, and hospitality converge in unforgettable style.
Parisian luxury retailer Printemps has opened its first U.S. location in New York’s Financial, with 350 curated brands, exclusive French beauty products, five distinct dining concepts.
The store feels like a whimsical Parisian apartment, seamlessly blending high-fashion retail, world-class dining, and luxury hospitality under one roof.
From the immersive Sneaker Room to the landmarked Red Room, each space combines unique materials, bold design, and meticulous attention to detail. Weekly soirées with top-tier brands make it a must-visit for New York’s elite.
Luxury Without Borders
A hub of global luxury, where brands, clients, and employees from all corners of the world come together. At the heart of this international vision is Guillaume Hapian, HR, who ensures that every team member embodies the brand’s French savoir-faire and high standards of service.
“Professionalism is universal,” Guillaume says. “It doesn’t matter where our employees come from. What matters is how we collaborate, how we uphold the brand’s values, and how we create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
Raising the Bar
Guillaume Hapian, Printemps New York, is focused on the months ahead, amplifying training programs and raising his teams to a level of excellence New York has never seen before. In the coming months, he will be fully dedicated to developing and perfecting his employees, ensuring every team member embodies the brand’s French savoir-faire and delivers the highest standards of luxury service.
“Seeing our employees grow and succeed, whether on the floor or during high-profile events, is incredibly rewarding,” Guillaume says. “Watching them gain confidence, deliver outstanding service, and connect authentically with our clients reminds me why I do what I do every day.”
Under his leadership, training programs go beyond procedures they instill pride, professionalism, and a sense of belonging. Each session inspires employees to elevate themselves and, in turn, enhance every guest’s experience, making Printemps New York a truly extraordinary destination.
A life in fast forward
Guillaume is known for his fast pace and constant engagement, always fully immersed in his work and widely recognized for his extensive network. During nearly a decade in Paris, this reputation was already well established. Whenever he finds a moment, he loves to travel almost once a month he’s on a plane exploring a new state, with Arizona and California topping his list. He enjoys discovering new hotels, boutiques, and concepts, and is equally passionate about culinary experiences.
How do you identify and recruit top talent in the competitive fashion industry?
“We have a very strong network in New York, and from the very beginning it was relatively easy to find top talent because international fashion lovers already know Printemps.
I met nearly 500 candidates through one-on-one interviews, job-dating sessions, and so if anyone recognizes themselves here, thank you for taking the time to meet us!
Our turnover has been very low since the opening because we offer excellent working conditions and attractive benefits compared to our competitors. Taking care of our people is a top priority.
Like my peers in the industry, I rely on LinkedIn and professional networks, as well as fashion job boards, to reach the best talent. We also have a highly effective employee referral program that rewards our team, which has been exceptional.
Sometimes, even while shopping, especially in SoHo, I hand out business cards. In fact, it has already led to new hires! And then, of course, magic happens”
What do you love most?
“The stage, the passion to deliver nothing but excellence, and to make every experience truly memorable.
I love connecting with people, whether it’s my team or our clients. I walk the floor several times a day, chatting and engaging with everyone. What excites me most is seeing hospitality and fashion come together in one space. Visiting us is truly a unique experience, with an energy you have to feel to believe.
I enjoy seeing clients take their time, embracing the French art of living with a glass of champagne in hand as they shop.
The diversity of my teams is a real strength, our differences make us stronger, and I’m very proud that all nationalities and communities are represented under one roof”
What’s your secret fashion faux pas that no one should ever know?
“Ha ha, I try not to make any! I’m always very simple, but I’m lucky to be surrounded by experts and people passionate. I’m always learning and seeking advice. Before any professional or personal appointments , I ask for my team’s opinion and of course, I shop in the store too!”
