With over 30 years of experience, Xavier Bourlette stands as a respected figure in the world of luxury property management. His reputation has been built on his extensive work with some of the world’s most affluent and influential families, such as the Saudi royal family and the Bettencourt family of France. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, discretion, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Bourlette’s journey has evolved from luxury hospitality into managing estates for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNW).
Most recently, Bourlette has joined a collaboration between SAFE and the family office of one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious families to deliver ultra-luxurious, tailored global experiences for 200 of the Kingdom’s most discerning travellers.
A career built on excellence
For Bourlette, luxury goes far beyond a label—it’s a craft, perfected through decades of hard work. “Understanding luxury comes from experience,” he shares. “Experience leads to excellence.” His vast career, which spans continents, has given him deep insights into the unique preferences and demands of UHNW clients. His attention to every minute detail makes him indispensable to the families he serves.
His tenure as General Manager for the Royal family of Saudi Arabia is a prime example. Bourlette oversaw the family’s properties in Paris and in the French Alps, managing everything from daily operations to significant renovations, all while supervising staff and controlling budgets. His ability to “adapt to different situations and solve problems with method” has been a hallmark of his career. Today, he brings this same level of dedication to his role as the founder of the Xavier Bourlette Organisation (XBO).
A mission-driven approach to serving UHNW clients
Bourlette’s approach to managing the estates of UHNW families is defined by a sense of duty and responsibility. As he puts it, “To serve UHNW clients, you must be demanding of yourself—be a perfectionist. You need to listen, understand, and never extrapolate the client’s thoughts.” This meticulous focus on the client’s needs is critical when managing properties that require absolute discretion and personalised attention. Bourlette’s expertise covers property management, event planning, renovations, and administrative support, making him a trusted advisor to the families he serves.
“My time with the Bettencourt family significantly shaped my management style,” Bourlette recalls. During his 15 years with one of France’s wealthiest families, he was responsible for properties across France, the US, and beyond. This experience further enhanced his sensitivity to art, culture, and luxury, particularly in managing rare collections and creating tailored experiences for his clients.
Responding to the evolving needs of luxury clients
Today, Bourlette’s company, XBO, is dedicated to assisting UHNW clients in managing their estates, homes, and lifestyles with the highest levels of care and expertise. He recognises the changing expectations of luxury travellers, especially from Saudi Arabia, who increasingly seek bespoke experiences when they travel abroad. “Saudi Arabia is evolving faster than almost any other country,” Bourlette notes. “The luxury professions—tourism and real estate—must adapt accordingly.” XBO’s philosophy is built on this adaptability, ensuring that clients receive seamless and stress-free experiences worldwide.
His close work with Saudi royalty has also provided him with a deep understanding of the preferences of Saudi families. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Bourlette has observed a growing trend toward pragmatism and reduced unnecessary expenses among his clients. “Clients have become more pragmatic, realising that they can do without certain luxuries,” he explains. This shift has led Bourlette to refine his services, offering solutions that provide high impact without excess.
XBO’s unique value
Beyond property management, Bourlette is committed to enhancing the hospitality industry through consulting and training. “Each hotel has its own personality,” he explains, emphasising the importance of crafting tailored service strategies to meet the needs of UHNW clients, particularly those from the Middle East. XBO works with hotels to refine their services and exceed client expectations. Bourlette’s hands-on approach focuses on deep listening, continuous improvement, and maintaining the highest standards of luxury.
In addition to his work with properties, Bourlette is passionate about mentoring the next generation of luxury hospitality professionals. His leadership style, grounded in communication and understanding, allows him to effectively train teams to deliver five-star service, even in the most demanding environments.
A legacy of excellence
Bourlette’s success in managing UHNW clients extends far beyond logistics. His work is about creating trust, privacy, and an atmosphere of excellence. Whether managing estates for European billionaires or collaborating with Saudi royalty, Bourlette has crafted a unique perspective on luxury and service. As Saudi Arabia’s luxury real estate and tourism markets continue to evolve, particularly with increased demand from Saudi families, Bourlette remains at the forefront, offering personalised services that go beyond the ordinary.
Looking ahead, Bourlette is committed to continuing his mission of excellence through XBO. He combines a rich history in the luxury sector with a forward-thinking approach that caters to the evolving needs of UHNW families. “The world is changing fast, and so must we,” Bourlette concludes. With his unique blend of expertise, dedication, and eye for detail, he is set to remain a leading figure in property management and luxury hospitality for years to come.
For more information on the partnership between XBO, SAFE, and the Saudi family office, please contact gerard.lefebvre@sa-fe.org.
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INTERVIEW BY GERARD LEFEBVRE
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