in this issue of Indonesia Expat we meet Nagesh Chawla, hotel General Manager of Ritz-Carlton Mega Kuningan, Jakarta. Nagesh is an experienced hotelier with over 12 years in his field of work, having worked in India and Hong Kong before moving to Jakarta. Nagesh takes time from his busy schedule to discuss what it takes to manage a five star hotel in the capital.
Nagesh Chawla
Nagesh, you worked in India and Hong Kong before Jakarta. Manages a hotel in Jakarta different to managing a stranger, and if so, how is this so?
hotel management worldwide is very similar since it requires many details. The basics of our business remain the same everywhere. The only recognizable difference here is that Jakarta requires a greater degree of micromanagement. That said, it's really a pleasure to work in Jakarta where our ladies and gentlemen have a natural sense of hospitality.
Who owns the Ritz-Carlton Hotel? Can you give us some background information about the hotel?
The Ritz-Carlton brand is actually a part of Marriott International and is the luxury brand of the company. There are currently about 81 Ritz-Carlton hotels worldwide in more than 65 countries including The Ritz-Carlton Hotels & Resorts, Ritz-Carlton Reserves, The Destination Club Ritz-Carlton The Ritz-Carlton Residence and more .
The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta opened on May 1 st , 2005, which later became The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan in 2010. The hotel has 333 rooms, two restaurants award-winning, world-class spa and fitness center, the Ritz-Carlton club lounge and grand ballrooms for exquisite functions .
What is the daily schedule of a general manager usually look like?
My days are generally provided with long meetings, which occupies most part of the day. But it is essential to be aware of the different situations that occur in the hotel. I also spend a lot of time meeting interesting people, who are both guests and clients of ours. My time is also dedicated to our ladies and gentlemen.
What are the specific attributes you believe an astute general manager must possess to successfully manage a hotel?
Leadership overcame tenaciously goes a long way. But the most important attribute is passion. Passion for hospitality, genuine passion to take care of your guests, the passion to take care of your employees and the passion for innovation.
What are some of the challenges you face while doing your work?
The daily dynamic evolution of the company, it is difficult to hire the right workforce. Bring coherence in the delivery of products and services is our greatest opportunity.
What you're particularly proud at the Ritz-Carlton in Mega Kuningan? Where do you think your hotel excels?
This is our ladies and gentlemen who work tirelessly to ensure that our customers have great experiences at our hotel. It is they who are our greatest asset in our commitment to service.
What five star really means? Is it to do with the facility or service
A five-star hotel is a luxurious hotel establishment that includes the following minimum facilities ?; 24-hour room service, award-winning restaurants, a luxury spa and all the personalized service that satisfies even the wishes and needs of our customers unexpressed.
With so many new hotels popping up around town, how do you keep the face of competition?
There is the feeling of well-being and ability to anticipate consumer needs and provide memorable experiences is what will keep us ahead of the competition.
Have you plans for change or improvements to your already stellar hotel?
Nothing is as constant as change, and I really live by that phrase. We have provided various changes in our processes and product offerings, and updates the physical level of our product.
How about down time; what do you do to relax?
I swim a lot. It helps me relax and refresh my mind and energizes me to a great extent.
And finally, what are the values that you consider with great importance in your life?
integrity. It is very important to hold strong values and principals.
Thank you for your time, Nagesh. Contact Nagesh Chawla, please email nagesh.chawla@ritzcarlton.com
* NB Ladies and gentlemen - This is a terminology used to refer to employees
Ritz-Carlton Jakarta - Mega Kuningan
JL. Lingkar Mega Kuningan Kav. E.1.1 NO.1
Mega Kuningan, Jakarta 12950, Indonesia
62 21 25518888