How did you start in the real estate business?

Unlike many veterans in the hospitality industry, I discovered my passion for hospitality while on a backpacking trip around Greece in the ‘80s. A fresh engineering graduate at the time; a brief period working in a Grecian hotel had convinced me that managing hotels and residences was more to my liking.

Working for Ascott, which is also an owner of properties, my current role has developed into the asset management of the properties and new investments in our real estate platform.

Why did you decide to enter this industry? What do you love about your job? What are some career highlights?

The diversity of the people I work with. Also Ascott is a global company and also provides many opportunities for personal and professional growth and development.

What would you say are the biggest issues facing the Asian hotel industry at the moment? What do you think of Airbnb?

Retaining good talent, with lots of new openings and opportunities it can be hard to retain good people. Disruptors in the industry are good as the industry's transformation shows innovation and progression. It addresses a human need that isn't being met and over a period of time the industry will embrace innovation that was once disruptive.

What would you like to see done differently in the hotel industry?

To continue to embrace change, utilise technology and to focus on the guest experience, not necessarily the brand. 

What’s your advice to a young person thinking of entering the real estate business?

At the end of the day, it's all about keeping the clients satisfied.

When I was working in a hotel in Australia, a particular guest complaint had led to a debate between department heads during the morning meeting. The hotel GM then wrote on a piece of paper the secret of success in this business: 'Listen to the guest; they will tell you everything you need to know.' I've kept the note in my diary for many years, and it's continued to remind me of the core essence of my work.

What is your favorite hotel and holiday destination?

Too many to choose from, basically the destination would be a beach side enclave. My favourite hotel would draw on memorable service and experiences, and I would say the InterContinental Hong Kong.