Meet Duke

A Heartist® Story from Fairmont Peace Shanghai, China

The mountain is hard to cross, but once we do, we hold our heads high.

Duke Chen

Deputy General Manager, Fairmont Peace Shanghai, China

Rooted in Legacy, Growing Together

For more than a century, the emerald-green spire of Fairmont Peace Shanghai has graced the banks of the Huangpu River, beckoning travelers like a lighthouse. It is an enduring landmark that bridges old-world elegance and the pulse of modern Shanghai. Duke Chen, who has spent 14 years growing within what he fondly calls “this big family,” embodies that same sense of continuity and growth. His career journey with Accor began as a Human Resources Officer, then evolved steadily: first to Supervisor, then Manager, then Director of Talent & Culture. Today, he serves as Deputy General Manager, helping to steer one of Shanghai’s most storied hotels into its next chapter.

Duke’s story is one guided by curiosity, connection, and care. And his motivation comes from something simple yet profound: a genuine love for people. “One of my favorite parts of work is interacting with different colleagues,” he says. “At first, we may be unfamiliar, but over time, we come to understand one another’s personalities, preferences, and temperaments.”

For him, people are at the heart of hospitality. The relationships built in hallways, meeting rooms, and daily conversations form the foundation of the hotel’s success. “Everyone here shares a common goal,” Duke explains. “With a strong culture and shared values, we grow together and ultimately become trustworthy friends and family members.”

That sense of togetherness is deeply woven into Fairmont Peace Shanghai’s identity, where heritage is honored not just through architecture, but through the Heartists® who care for one another.

As Deputy General Manager, Duke continues to exemplify a leadership philosophy rooted in empathy and empowerment. His personal motto ౼ Before you become a leader, you need to learn to empower yourself; after you become a leader, you need to learn to empower others ౼ has shaped the way he guides his teams.

“Since joining the hotel management team, I’ve always stayed committed to being empathetic and supportive,” he explains. “When we face challenges, we overcome them together. And by prioritizing employee development, we can help every team member grow their skills and shape a healthy, fulfilling career path.”

Duke sees his role not only as a leader, but as a connector; someone who ensures that the warmth of the Fairmont Peace Shanghai experience extends beyond guests to every colleague who walks through its doors.