08/10/2025
Meet the faces of Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak: Hubert-Jan van Catz - General manager
And yes, that’s really him in the photo, dusting off the front door. Hubert-Jan isn’t one to shy away from rolling up his sleeves. Whether it’s jumping in to help housekeeping on a busy day or making sure every corner of the lobby feels just right, he leads by example. For him, being a General Manager means being present, not just behind the scenes, but right there in the heart of the action.
What drives him most? The people. Meeting guests from all over the world, hearing their stories, and creating a stay that feels personal and memorable, that’s where the magic happens.
Ask him for a local tip, and he’ll often direct guests to a spot many locals don’t even know about: the peaceful courtyard of the Rotterdam City Hall. The garden is a hidden gem filled with blooming flowers, fountains, and sculptures, a nice escape in the middle of a busy city.
When he’s off-duty, you’ll find Hubert-Jan starting his day with a coffee and pastry from Most Breakfast, before heading out into the city of Rotterdam. He loves wandering through the for local bites, biking along the Maas River, and discovering street art in the Wittedewithstraat. And if the sun’s out? Chances are he’s relaxing with friends in het Park Rotterdam.
One guest interaction that really stuck with him: There was a solo traveler who came in during a tough time in her life. She ended up connecting with other guests in our Commons area, and we even organized a small dinner night together. Before she left, she thanked us for making her feel less alone. It reminded me that hospitality is about more than service, it’s about human connection!🤗