How did you come to call the West Coast home?

Joerg Rodig: I grew up in Germany, and I’ve been traveling for the last 20 years. I spent the last nine years in British Columbia between Vancouver and Whistler, so the West Coast is my home turf. Prior to that, I was part of the Four Seasons in Silicon Valley, and I’ve always had a desire to come back to the area.

What I found really fascinating now that I’m here is what’s offered culturally. I didn’t have the same appreciation when I first lived in the area as to how eclectic and different the neighborhoods are. I’m still discovering all of these little areas that have so much character, and that has been the delight and surprise of coming back to the Yerba Buena district.

How has the neighborhood changed over the years?

JR: The face of the neighborhood has really transformed in the last 10 years. I believe that Four Seasons was a pioneer in putting a luxury high-rise on the parking lot where no one would go before. We’ve become an anchor in the neighborhood and city, and we’ve helped shape the neighborhood.

What are some of your favorite things about the neighborhood?

JR: One of the neighborhood’s hidden gems is the gift shop at the MoMa, where you can find interesting presents and knickknacks. It’s become quite the go-to for me. Another is just outside of the Jewish Museum: Wise Sons. It’s a great place to have lunch and look out onto the Yerba Buena Gardens when the sun is shining.

As a foodie and person in the food and beverage industry, I’m just floored by the variety and quality of the dining experience here. From a simple, high-quality meal at a good price point to a more high-end dining experience, it’s all available here.

But what I appreciate most about the area is the accessibility. It’s less than 20 minutes to the airport by car, and there’s access to public transportation to either side of the bay. From YBG, you can walk to some of the best restaurants and to surrounding neighborhoods like China Town, Union Square, and Telegraph Hill. And it’s all a 25-minute walk.

What do you want your legacy at Four Seasons and in the YBG neighborhood to be?

JR: I feel very honored and humbled to be the third GM here at this property. Both of my predecessors did an extraordinary job, and I’ve inherited a very well-oiled machine.

So first, I’m looking to take the baton and legacy from my predecessors and steer the ship into the future to continue to produce the most extraordinary luxury hotel in the city.

Second, it’s a privilege for our brand to be in this destination, and with that privilege comes a responsibility to make an impact. We want to do good. First and foremost, we want to do good work and service for our guests, but we also want to do good for our neighbors and our city. I want to collaboratively work with the hotel council and SF Travel to create a bright future for San Francisco as a destination.