Post by Gérard Guibilato

Dominique Xardel passed away on Monday, July 6, and the news filled us with profound sadness. Dominique was a legend of IMHI and of ESSEC, his alma mater, to which he remained devoted throughout his life. Over nearly five decades, he held a variety of roles within the institution—from lecturer, alongside his professional career in marketing and publishing, to Dean of the Grande École, Director of Master's Programs, and Director of International Relations. In many different capacities, he left an enduring mark on generations of students. Open to the wider world, he played a major role in the development of the School following its move to Cergy and, above all, in its internationalization. Long before many others, he led ESSEC's expansion into Japan in the 1980s and later into China—two of the many countries where he was held in the highest esteem. He was the author of dozens of books on management and many other subjects, reflecting the breadth and diversity of his interests. A passionate music lover and an accomplished pianist, he wrote about the personalities of great contemporary pianists and founded a piano festival in Paris. For IMHI, Dominique, then Dean of ESSEC, played the pivotal role of initiating the program. Together with Serge Perrot, he persuaded Dean Robert Beck of Cornell to partner with ESSEC in creating, in 1981, what would become Europe's leading Master's program in hospitality management. In doing so, he demonstrated the qualities that defined his professional life: vision, power of persuasion, a constant drive for innovation, and the ability to turn ideas into reality. These were the hallmarks of the entrepreneur he was, despite operating within an academic environment that could be highly conservative. All of these qualities were needed to establish a hospitality management program within a leading French "Grande École" at that time. Above all, however, Dominique was a truly remarkable gentleman, un "Grand Monsieur" —not only in stature, but even more so in the depth and breadth of his human qualities: unwavering kindness and generosity, empathy, openness to others, boundless curiosity, and remarkable energy, all expressed with unfailing composure, a constant good humor, and a profound commitment to spiritual and philosophical values. On a personal note, I will never forget that it was Dominique who gave me the opportunity, leaving Switzerland, to join Paul Beals and Dean Robert A. Beck in the extraordinary adventure of IMHI's early years. In doing so, he transformed both my professional and personal life, just as he did for so many others who had the privilege of crossing his path. May IMHI remain true to his inspiring spirit and to that of the pioneers who stood alongside him. To his wife, Agnès, to his children Laurent, Patricia, Thierry, Marianne, and Benoît, and to their families, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Rest in peace, dear Dominique, and thank you for everything you gave us.