The international journey of Matteo Morino, today General Manager at Mangia’s, between ambition, people and a passion for hospitality

Inside Mangia’s was born with the aim of telling the stories of those who, every day, help shape our vision of hospitality. Different paths, international experiences, professional and personal choices that intertwine in an authentic story of growth, ambition and continuous evolution. 

This is the story of Matteo Morino, General Manager of Mangia’s Costa Ragusa Borgo 

Let yourself be inspired by the journey that built his vision.  

«The hotel lobby is my favourite place» 

That is where it all began for Matteo Morino and, in a sense, that is where it all continues. 

Today Matteo is General Manager at Mangia’s. His journey is the result of years of international experiences, continuous growth and a vision built over time. A path shaped by ambition, discipline and a strong focus on people. 

An international journey, between choices and growth 

«I chose hotel school because I already knew I wanted to work in this sector, even though no one in my family did this job.» 

From his first experience abroad, in France at 18, through to eleven years in London, every step contributed to building his path: 

«London was fundamental. There I studied, worked, built relationships and grew as a person. It is also the place where I got married and where my son was born.» 

The move to Sicily represents the latest major turning point: 

«It was a significant change, but an extremely positive one. Being here today, involved in a major opening, makes me proud.» 

Balance and determination  
One of the most challenging aspects of his journey has been balancing study, work and personal life. 

«Days that started at 7 and ended at 22: it takes organisation and consistency.» 

A balance also made possible thanks to the support of the people around him: 

«I had a company that gave me flexibility, a university organised for working students and above all the support of my family.» 

Thinking big  
Behind his choices there has always been a clear drive: 

«I have always thought big.» 

«My goal, from day one, has been to become CEO of a major hotel group. Becoming General Manager was an important step, but it is not the final destination.» 

Becoming General Manager at 27  
An important milestone, reached very early. 

«When I was given that trust I was 27 years old. It might have seemed like a risk, but I had years of experience behind me and knew the context well.» 

The beginning, however, is never simple: 

«There is no manual for becoming a General Manager.» 

«Even with experience and training, the first day always feels like starting from scratch.» 

Leadership: what you do every day 
For Matteo, leadership is first and foremost about behaviour. 

«It is what you do every day, even when no one is watching.» 

It translates into concrete actions: 

«Being present, noticing when someone is struggling, taking the time to talk. Even when you are tired.» 

And above all: 

«Making quality decisions, for the good of the company and its people. Because if the team grows, the service to guests improves too.» 

The choice of Mangia’s 
The decision to join Mangia’s came from an immediate feeling: 

«It only took me 20 minutes on a call with Andrea Mangia, our Chief Operating Officer. I sensed strong leadership and a clear vision.» 

A choice made even before knowing all the details: 

«I didn’t yet know which property I would be working at, but I immediately understood there was an important project I wanted to be part of.» 

The future of hospitality 
Looking at the coming years, Matteo sees a sector that is evolving, but with solid foundations: 

«Technology will become increasingly important, but it will not be everything.» 

The authentic experience will remain at the centre: 

«People will continue to seek simplicity, relaxation, good food, real experiences.» 

And in places like Sicily, this is even more evident: 

«In ten years’ time, guests will still come here to experience the territory and its roots.» 

Looking ahead 

«I have always had big goals. And I keep looking ahead.» 

For Matteo Morino, hospitality is not just a job: it is a journey of continuous growth, made of people, vision and ambition.