Welcome to IMI

Founded in 1991 on the shores of Lake Lucerne, IMI International Management Institute Switzerland is driven by a singular mission: to provide world-class, personalised education in hospitality, business, and culinary arts. We blend Swiss academic excellence with innovation, professionalism, diversity, and a familial approach to learning.

Business Studies

At IMI, business education is distinguished by relevance, rigor, and real-world execution. In partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University, our UK-accredited programmes combine academic depth with practical immersion through the live operations of Hotel Seeburg, where students translate theory into measurable business performance.

Leadership

True leadership is shaped through access, responsibility, and perspective. IMI students participate in exclusive conferences, workshops, and interactive sessions alongside internationally respected figures, including former Prime Ministers, senior executives, and influential decision-makers. These direct engagements allow students to exchange ideas, gain first-hand insight, and develop strategic thinking in real leadership environments.

Sustainability

Aligned with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality, IMI prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving global market. Through real business application of ESG principles, students learn how sustainability drives decision-making, innovation, operational performance, and long-term value creation.

Professional Etiquette

Success in international business requires more than academic achievement. Through structured etiquette workshops and real-world application, students develop polished communication skills, professional behaviour, confidence, and cultural intelligence. This is further enriched through IMI’s connections to royal and diplomatic circles.

Leadership & Faculty

With team members from many parts of the world, IMI’s faculty and staff are as international as our student community. They work closely with each student, encourage curiosity, and help develop individual strengths. This personal approach ensures that students feel supported throughout their studies. With their strong industry backgrounds and diverse perspectives, our lecturers are well equipped to prepare the next generation of hospitality and business professionals. Meet the IMI team below.

Our Management

Mr. David Hailstones

Chief Executive Officer

Ms. Fortunata Rea

Head of Enrolment & Marketing

Ms. Matina Gatsou

Academic Dean

Ms. Isabelle Bürki

Vice President l International Relations

Our Faculty

Mr. Jonas Grip

Senior Culinary Lecturer

Mr. Anthimos Georgiou

Culinary Programme Leader

Mr. Shaik Naziruddin

Lecturer in Hospitality and F&B

Our Adjunct Lecturers

Mr. Ralf Ritter

Lecturer in Marketing

Dr. Patricia Daniels

Lecturer in English Language

Mr. Dominik Stamm

Lecturer in HR and People Management

Recognition & Accreditations

Excellence at IMI is validated by respected global rankings and accreditations

QS World University Ranking

Ranked #13 globally for Hospitality & Leisure Management, placing IMI among the elite hospitality schools worldwide.

All degrees are internationally recognized, validated by Manchester Metropolitan University (UK) – a university with over 200 years of heritage. (MMU’s Business School holds the Triple Crown accreditation – AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA – a mark of quality achieved by <1% of business schools globally.)

IMI is certified by SQS ISO 9001 for quality management and EduQua, Switzerland’s quality label for educational institutions. We are active members of CHME (Council for Hospitality Management Education) and EUHOFA International (an association of the world’s leading hospitality schools).
“97% of IMI graduates secure jobs within 12 months of graduation.” This statistic speaks to our successful curriculum and career support. It’s more than a number – it means IMI students leave ready to lead in the industry.

Begin your journey with IMI​

Explore how we teach, what you will study, life on campus, and why IMI Switzerland could be the right place for your next step.