Emporium soars under GM Julie Manega

Brisbane’s award-winning luxury boutique hotel Emporium Hotel South Bank is celebrating its general manager Julie Manega this International Women’s Day.

Manega, a seasoned hotelier with 19 years’ industry experience in luxury hotels, continues to play a pivotal role in driving Emporium’s growth and its position as one of Queensland’s most sought-after boutique hotels.

She is an advocate for women in the tourism and hospitality industry, and currently one of the only female GMs in the Queensland hotel sector.

Industry awards

Under her leadership, Emporium has garnered significant industry recognition, including being named Luxury Art Boutique Hotel, Luxury Contemporary Hotel and Luxury Riverside Hotel 2024 at the World Luxury Hotel Awards; #1 Hotel in Brisbane on Tripadvisor; and most recently Firma Italian was recognised in the AGFG Chef Hat Awards. This success is a direct result of Manega’s focus on building a strong team and cultivating relationships with key tourism and hospitality insiders.

Her approach to leadership is about collaboration and empowerment, ensuring Emporium has the best of the best in positions across the organisation.

“Witnessing my team’s achievements brings me immense satisfaction and I strive to empower them to excel at every level,” Manega said.

“We are blown away by the many talented women at Emporium South Bank including our renowned Italian chef and restaurant manager at Firma, Emporium’s executive chef, the hotel’s director of Sales and Marketing, manager of Housekeeping, Front Office manager, C&E manager, Belle Epoque manager, Reservations & Guest Services manager, Associate Director of Sales and our Head of People & Culture are all accomplished professionals and an asset to Emporium.

“I believe these are some of the best leaders in our industry, that is often male dominated, and we’re proud that these women are part of the Emporium team.”

A lot to look forward to

Manega’s continued commitment to collaboration, innovation and partnership helps drive Emporium’s growth in Queensland, inspiring confidence and loyalty among her staff, their customers and industry partners.

“We are very excited for what’s to come here in Brisbane. It’s an exciting time to be part of this ever-evolving city and being able to consistently offer an unforgettable luxury experience at Emporium,” she said.

“From increased local and international travellers post pandemic to the pinnacle global event that is the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, there’s a lot to look forward to.”