Leading with Elegance: Stéphane Valeri on Monaco’s Future
Stéphane Valeri, CEO of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), stands as a pivotal figure in Monaco’s luxury hospitality—and its broader economic landscape. With accolades such as France’s Legion of Honour and Monaco’s Order of Saint-Charles, his leadership continues to shape the Principality’s allure, prestige, and sustainability.
When asked about SBM’s role in Monaco’s economy, Mr Stéphane Valeri reflects,
“Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer is Monaco’s first private employer. The group hires 4000 people, up to 5000 in peak season, among which 19% Monaco’s residents. The Group’s outstanding offer of casinos, hotels, restaurants and bars, real estate, and entertainment, has a real power of attractivity. Indeed, with almost 800 million euros of revenue, generated by a worldwide clientele portfolio, SBM not only contributes to the Principality of Monaco’s GDP but also to its international influence.”
Valeri explains the formula behind SBM’s timeless appeal:
“The exclusivity of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer experience has always been built on an extremely diversified clientele… our diversified clientele mix has always been a key factor of success, allowing the Group to be still in the game, 162 years after its birth.”
This ethos reinforces SBM’s motto: “Here we are given dreams, pleasure and beauty.”
Valeri shares the Group’s ambitious developments underway:
“Among our major developments in 2025… the first phase of the Monte-Carlo Beach repositioning, including the revamping of the Deck and the Olympic swimming pool area. La Vigie and Maona restaurants will welcome two fancy international concepts: Jondal and Sea Satin. Yet, more exciting news are about to be unveiled.”
SBM has long aligned with Monaco’s environmental goals. Valeri attests:
“Since 2007, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer has been actively committed to a more sustainable and responsible luxury… to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050… we also lead our own initiatives, such as the use of geothermal loops since 1982… Photovoltaic panels on our property’s roofs… electric vehicles and e-bikes… fresh vegetables from our own gardens… a protected lagoon for biodiversity.”
Valeri captures the essence of Monaco’s unique appeal:
“The key factor is this special Monte-Carlo way of life… a concentrate of glamour, with the best offer in luxury hospitality… in a small, safe and enchanting place. A diversified offer combining history and new trends. The arrival of international restaurant concepts… are very much appreciated by the international high-end trendy clientele…”
Monte-Carlo SBM goes beyond luxury—it is a cultural powerhouse:
“SBM created the Monte-Carlo Opera House… Sporting Monte-Carlo… Monaco arts exhibitions… two yearly music festivals… supports cultural entities such as the Monte-Carlo Ballet Company, Philharmonic Orchestra, and Opera. Culture is part of the Group’s DNA.”
On his vision for SBM’s growth, Valeri emphasizes:
“My vision for the future… is precisely what we are actively working on. More than a vision, a road map based on three pillars:
Continued development in Monaco, to increase our revenue in the historical heart of the company. Monaco, which will remain my priority. We have just opened Marlow, a new Signature restaurant on Mareterra district, and more openings are about to come.
International development, to provide us with additional growth drivers. This is the goal we want to achieve with our first projects, such as the launch, in November 2024, of the Casino de Monte-Carlo on Crystal luxury cruise ships, the acquisition of the former Palace des Neiges, just renamed Monte-Carlo One Courchevel, which opening is planned for the 2026/2027 ski season, or the future Monte-Carlo Club 1863 restaurant, we will open in Dubai at the end of the year, in partnership with D.ream International. All those projects will allow us to generate additional revenue especially during the Monaco lowest season, while target new clients.
CSR: I consider that a positive development must be done in the respect of our environment, our community and our collaborators. This is the path we will follow for an even better future for SBM.”
His advice to Monaco’s next generation?
“Be agile, surround yourself with the best collaborators, and always seek for excellence.”
In Stéphane Valeri, Monaco sees a leader who balances heritage with forward-thinking vision, ensuring SBM remains a beacon of luxury, culture, and sustainability, both today and tomorrow.
Read our exclusive, detailed interview with Stéphane Valeri:
“Here we are given Dreams, Pleasure and Beauty”
Stéphane Valeri is a visionary business leader whose expertise and leadership have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the most prestigious hospitality and entertainment brands in the world, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (Monte-Carlo SBM). As the CEO of this iconic Monegasque company, Mr. Valeri’s influence spans the realms of luxury, tourism, and innovation.
Get a printed copy of the Spring 2025 edition of the Living in Monaco magazine.
Responses