Elety Guest: Fernando Pane

Hello everyone!

This is Elety Guest — a closer look at real men and their worlds. Every edition brings you a relaxed chat with someone new: how they spend their days, what drives them, and the style that makes them feel like themselves. Simple stories, honest voices, and plenty of inspiration for your own journey.

Previous guests are available here.

Today, please welcome Fernando Pane.

Hello, my name is Fernando Pane, and I am currently the General Manager of Sina Villa Medici, Autograph Collection in Florence. I was born in Naples in 1982, and hospitality is truly part of my DNA. My father was a hotel manager, and growing up, I was fascinated by the world of luxury hotels, attention to detail, and the art of making guests feel at home — no matter where they come from. I took my first steps in this industry at a very young age. While studying Business Administration at university, I spent my summers working as a waiter in Switzerland — in St. Moritz — starting at the age of 17. Those early experiences taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and above all, empathy.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in some of Italy’s most iconic destinations — from Rome (at hotels like the Flora, Eden, and Bernini Bristol) to the Argentario coast, where I spent six years at the legendary Hotel Il Pellicano, eventually becoming General Manager. In March 2021, I embraced a new challenge here in Florence, where I now lead the team at Sina Villa Medici. This hotel is a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance, with a lush garden and pool right in the heart of the city. My mission here is to ensure that every guest experience is authentic, memorable, and deeply personal. I believe in leading with passion, curiosity, and kindness.

I enjoy being present in the hotel’s common areas, greeting guests personally, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere

My approach is hands-on: I enjoy being present in the hotel’s common areas, greeting guests personally, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I always say I am “happily unsatisfied” — meaning I’m constantly looking for ways to improve, grow, and go beyond expectations. For me, luxury is not just about perfection — it’s about connection.

In many ways, I feel like this profession chose me before I even realized it. I was born into a family where hospitality was part of everyday life — my father was a hotel manager, so from a very young age, I was exposed to the rhythms, challenges, and beauty of this world. I remember being fascinated by how a hotel could be both a place of work and a space where people from all over the world come together. What started as simple curiosity quickly became a passion. By 17, I was already working summer jobs in hotels, and each experience confirmed that this was the path I wanted to follow. Hospitality became more than a job — it became a way of thinking, a way of being. It’s now an essential part of who I am.

I find inspiration in people — both guests and colleagues. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new, to see things from a different perspective. I’m especially inspired by passionate, curious individuals who go the extra mile, often behind the scenes, to create something meaningful for others.

I find inspiration in beauty — not only in design or aesthetics, but in the harmony of well-executed service, in a warm smile, or in a simple moment of genuine connection with a guest.

I also draw a lot of inspiration from travel. Experiencing different cultures, observing how hospitality is expressed around the world, and paying attention to the small details that make a stay unforgettable — all of this fuels my creativity and drives me to constantly improve. And finally, I find inspiration in beauty — not only in design or aesthetics, but in the harmony of well-executed service, in a warm smile, or in a simple moment of genuine connection with a guest. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.

My professional recommendation is to lead with passion, stay curious, and never stop learning. This industry is built on human connection, and the best results come when you genuinely care — about the people, the details, and the experience you’re creating. Be present, listen actively, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a team, humility and empathy are key.

And finally, embrace change. Hospitality is constantly evolving, and those who stay flexible, open-minded, and willing to adapt will always stay ahead.

A useful habit that can truly help a man is the habit of self-reflection. Taking even just a few minutes each day to pause, evaluate your actions, your mindset, and how you’ve interacted with others can make a big difference over time. It builds emotional intelligence, helps you grow both personally and professionally, and keeps you grounded. In a fast-paced world, this habit creates space for clarity, better decision-making, and stronger relationships — all essential qualities for a meaningful and balanced life.

A gentleman is someone who leads with respect, kindness, and integrity — not because he wants to impress, but because it reflects who he truly is. He treats everyone with dignity, regardless of status, and carries himself with quiet confidence and humility. A gentleman listens more than he speaks, keeps his word, and understands that true strength lies in empathy, not ego. In essence, being a gentleman is not about style or status — it’s about character.