Deon's Fairwell

September 27, 2017

Deon Bids Farewell to Palazzo Hotel Montecasino After 15 Years

A Legacy of Excellence in Hospitality

After nearly 15 years as Head Concierge and Guest Relations Manager at the award-winning Palazzo Hotel Montecasino, Deon Prinsloo is stepping away from his role to pursue a new chapter in his illustrious career. With 38 years in hospitality, Prinsloo has left an indelible mark on the industry, both locally and internationally, having worked in Belgium and Dubai before making his home at the Palazzo.

Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of interacting with royalty, heads of state, celebrities, business leaders, world travelers, and everyday guests. These diverse experiences have enriched his professional journey and solidified his passion for creating exceptional guest experiences.

Championing the Concierge Industry in South Africa

Recognizing the need for a professional network for concierges, Prinsloo founded the South African Concierge Forum on 10 October 2010—the first of its kind in the country. This platform was established to connect concierges and guest relations professionals, allowing them to share expertise and industry knowledge.

Inspire, Share, and Shine

Guided by his motto, “Inspire, Share, and Shine”, the forum has grown significantly, now featuring:

Annual Concierge Conferences in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg
Quarterly educational forums to foster industry growth and excellence

In 2019, the SA Concierge Conference celebrated its 10th anniversary, reflecting Prinsloo’s commitment to elevating the profession and ensuring that concierges remain at the forefront of guest service innovation.

A Heart for Philanthropy

Beyond his contributions to hospitality, Prinsloo is deeply passionate about philanthropy, particularly supporting disadvantaged children in Johannesburg. Over the years, he has worked closely with orphanages, organizing charity drives to collect essential items such as stationery, toiletries, and clothing.

His Annual Christmas Charity Drive has become a cherished tradition, bringing festive joy to children in townships by ensuring they receive Christmas gifts and much-needed essentials.

A New Chapter: Concierge Consulting and Industry Development

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 profoundly impacted the hospitality industry, forcing many professionals to leave their roles. This crisis solidified Prinsloo’s decision to pursue his long-time ambition of consulting.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic, I saw the need for training in this area, as many people were forced to leave the sector they loved—and many never returned.” – Deon Prinsloo

D&D Concierge Consultancy

The new business venture will focus on:

Concierge consulting & motivational speaking
Networking through the SA Concierge Forum
Personalized travel arrangements
Philanthropy projects with orphanages
Floral arrangements and event services

A Message of Gratitude and Looking Forward

“Interacting with hotel guests and people in the industry is not just a passion—it is an obsession. I intend to share my nearly four decades of knowledge and expertise while helping build essential skills and training within the industry.”

As he bids farewell to the Palazzo Hotel Montecasino, Deon Prinsloo expresses his deepest gratitude to his colleagues, guests, and friends for their unwavering support. His journey is far from over, and he looks forward to collaborating with industry professionals to continue shaping the future of hospitality in South Africa.