A heartfelt thank you to The International Butler Academy, where I learned that true butler service goes far beyond fulfilling requests. It is about mastering the art of anticipation, emotional intelligence, discretion, and creating seamless experiences that feel effortless to every guest.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned at TIBA was understanding the importance of both fixed and flexible butler touches throughout the complete guest journey. These principles have helped me develop a more refined and guest-centered approach to luxury service.

TIBA taught me that extraordinary service is never delivered alone; it is orchestrated through seamless collaboration between departments. Working closely with culinary, housekeeping, concierge, and guest services teams demonstrated how every detail contributes to creating personalized, intuitive, and flawlessly executed experiences.

Today, I continue to apply these standards and philosophies in my professional career. The training not only enhanced my technical skills but also strengthened my mindset, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

Thank you to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection for the trust and opportunity to grow, and to The International Butler Academy for shaping the standards, mindset, and service philosophy that continue to guide my journey in luxury hospitality.

My experience at The International Butler Academy has been truly transformative. The training provided me with a strong foundation in the principles, standards, and techniques that define world-class service, and I continue to apply these lessons in my professional
career every day.

What sets TIBA apart is its commitment to excellence, professionalism, and attention to detail. The program not only enhanced my practical skills but also strengthened my confidence, discipline, and understanding of luxury service. The knowledge I gained has
become an invaluable part of my professional development and continues to influence the way I approach my work.

I am pleased to support The International Butler Academy and to share my positive experience with future students and industry professionals who may be considering the program. Thank you once again for your support, guidance, and encouragement throughout my journey. Please extend my sincere gratitude and best wishes to the entire team for their dedication and professionalism.

Patrick Smit , member of the esteemed les Cles d'Or, brings in many years of extensive concierge experience in the world of luxury hotels such as the Waldorf Astoria and The Amstel Hotel, both located in Amsterdam. Fifteen years ago, Patrick Smit started ConQuesta, a luxury concierge service for an exclusive selection of members. In his masterclass at The International Butler Academy, Patarick Smit will teach the students the importance of a professional network, how to build and maintain it and how to anticipate on your guest's needs to exceed their expectations.

Sander Smits is a seasoned F&B professional with international experience including luxury hotel & resort brands in Amsterdam and the Maldives. He started his own restaurant in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam and is now passioned about being a lecturer and owner @ Noah & Sanders Hospitality Consultancy.
In his masterclass at The International Butler Academy, Sander Smit will teach the art of in-room dining, how to open and serve champagne and in-depth lectures about coffee, thea, cocktails and wine. 

In this exclusive module we prepare our students for an interview when they would like to apply for their dream job. How to present yourself, professional communication, anticipate on the company culture and train their interview skills. Anne van der Sluijs, Talent and Development Manager at Rosewood Amsterdam, will share her experience, insights, do's and don'ts in the crucial hiring and selection process.

Melchior van der Meulen is a highly experienced butler, gentleman's Gentleman, and valet with more than 25 years of experience in the private service profession. He knows his business like no other. At The International Butler Academy, Mr. Van der Meulen is responsible for teaching butling plus valeting in its many varied facets. Because of his tremendous experience, Mr. van der Meulen uses real-life settings in his hands-on training, something the students value tremendously.

Mr. Munro is a trained private butler, and a 15-year experienced golf club manager. His real passion, however, is the theatre, and it is this passion that links him to our Academy. As a trainer, Mr. Munro is specialized in training body language and expression, butler etiquette and protocol, rhythm, speech, and service situations. Through drama classes and body language training, he brings the students a wealth of knowledge about posture, decorum, style, and grace, all pillars of the international recognized world of 5* luxury.

LM Flower Fashion Productions is a Dutch company that works internationally in the luxury events and exclusive weddings design field.
Examples of their experience are the styling of the residence of the ambassador of the Netherlands in Paris including the highlight of the State Visit of H.M. King Willem-Alexander and H.M. Queen Máxima in 2016. 
They leave unforgettable memories for guests by creating floral experiences in international luxury hotels.                                        

Mark and Raymond also co produced the fashion shows in the residences of Dutch couturiers Jan Taminiau, Viktor & Rolf and Edwin Oudshoorn Couture.

With a strong focus on excellence, Ineke van de Laak brings extensive experience in developing, implementing, and optimising strategic programs and operational processes within the world of luxury hospitality. As the Director of Rooms and General Manager of five-star hotels, with over ten years of international hotel and resort training experience, Mrs. van de Laak plays a pivotal role in ensuring that both current and future clients receive bespoke solutions tailored to elevate the guest experience, streamline operations, and enhance profitability. Mrs. van de Laak is committed to upholding the highest service standards and maintaining brand consistency across all client properties worldwide.