Mandarin Oriental has appointed Simone Biles as its first-ever Global Wellness Ambassador, marking a strategic move to strengthen the brand’s position as a leader in holistic luxury wellness. The long-term partnership signals a deeper focus on integrated wellbeing across the Group’s global portfolio, blending physical performance, mental resilience and recovery into future guest experiences.
A Strategic Appointment for Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has named Simone Biles as its inaugural Global Wellness Ambassador.
The collaboration is positioned as a purpose-driven partnership rather than a traditional endorsement. It reflects the Group’s evolving wellness philosophy — one that integrates:
- Physical strength
- Mental health
- Recovery and regeneration
- Emotional balance
Biles, widely recognised as the most decorated gymnast of all time, will work closely with Mandarin Oriental’s Wellness Board and its network of specialists in movement, meditation, nutrition and sleep.
Her debut in the role took place at Mandarin Oriental, Milan, during her first visit to the city as an international sports fan.
How the Partnership Will Take Shape
As Global Wellness Ambassador, Biles will:
- Contribute insight to the Group’s long-term Wellness strategy
- Collaborate on new spa and performance-led programmes
- Support global brand storytelling and campaign initiatives
- Participate in curated wellness activations across key destinations
The Group confirmed that the partnership will influence future programme development, aligning with its emphasis on mental, emotional and physical integration within luxury hospitality.
Milan Launch Experiences
To mark the launch, Mandarin Oriental, Milan has introduced two limited-time experiences inspired by Biles, available through the end of March.
Double-Double Glow
An immersive spa treatment designed around recovery and radiance, combining:
- Advanced thermal techniques
- Alternating hot and cold stones for muscle relaxation
- Targeted massage for toned musculature
- A high-performance “Glass Skin” facial enhanced by cryo globes
The treatment reflects the athlete-led focus on recovery, circulation and restorative balance.
“Champion Chip” Cookie
Developed with the hotel’s culinary team, the limited-edition cookie offers a balanced sweet concept inspired by Biles’s approach to nourishment and enjoyment.
Philanthropic Alignment
As part of Mandarin Oriental’s long-running “Fans” initiative, the Group will collaborate with Laureus Sport for Good.
The organisation uses sport as a tool for social change, supporting young people worldwide — a mission aligned with both Biles’s advocacy work and Mandarin Oriental’s broader community engagement strategy.
Why It Matters
The appointment highlights a broader shift within luxury hospitality toward credibility-driven wellness partnerships.
Rather than celebrity branding alone, Mandarin Oriental is positioning wellness as:
- A core brand pillar
- A measurable guest experience differentiator
- A long-term growth strategy driver
The move reinforces the Group’s ambition to be recognised not only for luxury accommodation but also for leadership in modern, holistic wellbeing — an increasingly competitive segment spanning luxury spa, performance recovery, mental health programming and integrated lifestyle offerings.
As high-net-worth travellers prioritise longevity and balance, athlete partnerships grounded in lived experience offer both authenticity and strategic differentiation.
At a Glance
- Brand: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
- Ambassador: Simone Biles
- Role: First-ever Global Wellness Ambassador
- Launch Location: Mandarin Oriental, Milan
- Focus: Holistic wellbeing integrating physical, mental and emotional balance
- Philanthropy Partner: Laureus Sport for Good
- Strategic Objective: Strengthen authority in global luxury wellness
