Pauline Tan
- Andrew Millar
- May 24
- 2 min read
ABA Bank
May 2025
In the heart of Cambodia's bustling capital, Arnaud Darc stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation in the hospitality sector. As the CEO of Thalias Hospitality Group and President of the Cambodia Restaurant Association (CRA), Darc has been instrumental in shaping the nation's culinary landscape and advocating for industry-wide advancements.
A Culinary Visionary's Journey
Arriving in Cambodia in 1994, Darc was captivated by the country's rich culture and potential. His initial role with Accor Hotels laid the foundation for his deep engagement with the local hospitality scene. Recognizing the untapped opportunities, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing ventures that would later evolve into the renowned Thalias Hospitality Group.
Under his leadership, Thalias has blossomed into a conglomerate encompassing esteemed establishments like Topaz, Malis, and Khéma. These venues not only offer exquisite dining experiences but also serve as platforms for cultural exchange, blending French culinary techniques with Khmer traditions.Thalias Hospitality+4newsonline.chainedesrotisseurs.com+4Thalias Hospitality+4
Elevating the Hospitality Industry
Beyond his business endeavors, Darc has been a stalwart advocate for the broader hospitality sector. As President of the CRA, he has championed initiatives aimed at professionalizing the industry, emphasizing the importance of food safety, staff training, and regulatory compliance. His efforts have been pivotal in fostering a more structured and sustainable restaurant ecosystem in Cambodia.
In collaboration with governmental bodies, Darc has also played a crucial role in policy formulation. His appointment as Co-Chair of Working Group D in the Government-Private Sector Forum underscores his commitment to bridging the gap between private enterprises and public institutions, ensuring that the industry's concerns are addressed at the highest levels.
Navigating Economic Challenges
The hospitality sector, like many others, faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Darc's leadership during this period was marked by proactive measures to support his employees and adapt to the evolving landscape. Recognizing the need for data-driven advocacy, the CRA, under his guidance, conducted comprehensive surveys to assess the industry's state, providing valuable insights for policy interventions.
These efforts highlighted critical areas requiring attention, such as the need for tax relief, financial aid, and support for skill development. Darc emphasized the importance of formalizing businesses to enhance access to governmental support and ensure long-term sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Darc remains optimistic about Cambodia's hospitality sector. He envisions a future where the industry not only recovers but thrives, driven by innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. Emphasizing the potential of public-private partnerships, he advocates for investments in infrastructure, such as international convention centers, to bolster tourism and economic diversification.
Moreover, Darc underscores the importance of embracing digital transformation, sustainable practices, and continuous skill development to remain competitive in the regional and global markets.
About Arnaud Darc
Arnaud Darc is the CEO of Thalias Hospitality Group and President of the Cambodia Restaurant Association. With over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, he has been a driving force in elevating Cambodia's culinary scene and advocating for industry-wide advancements. His contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the "International Leading Brand Award– Cambodia– Conglomerate in F&B Excellence" at the ASEAN Outstanding Business Awards 2023.