Exclusive Interview | Agus Suariadi, Director of Human Resources - Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts
/“Bonding is really important and regularly at our property we have some recognition events to celebrate individuals as well as Team. It has proven to give a positive impact on Team Members bonding as well as trust with the Leaders.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in the hospitality industry, and how did you get started in this field?
I was inspired by my previous colleague story when I was still an English Teacher at a Language Foundation. He told me there was a previous teacher who was back then, already in HR Director position. so I felt very inspired by the story and since then, I pursue a career in the Hospitality Industry. Entering hospitality Industry, I joined Banyan Tree Ungasan as an English Teacher and after a year in the position, I was promoted to CSR Manager.
Can you share some of the most significant milestones or achievements in your career so far?
I have joined several big brands with different type of milestones, the recent one is that I was proud to be the HR Leader to open the first LXR Brand in South East Asia, the Umana Bali. Previously also during the most chalenging pandemic time, I assisted the opening of Raffles Bali back then in 2020.
How would you describe your leadership style, and what do you believe are the key qualities of an effective leader in the hospitality industry?
My Team told me that I am an effective and democratic leader as well as always have high believe that my Team is doing their best in everyday duty. Drive to provide the best quality of service for the employees whilst at the same time use the technology to enhance employee satisfaction.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your role, and how did you overcome them?
I would not say a biggest challenges but only different experiences I faced in different properties. From complained local neighbours to complained local drivers. Every location has its own uniqueness and so far I enjoyed the process and it;s enhanced my experience to not only managing internally the Team Members but also Environment and its surrounding.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the hospitality industry?
Read more and listen more, I like to read articles published on LinkedIn and also listen to fellow Colleagues on how they develop their operations.
Can you discuss a project or initiative you are particularly proud of and why?
I was leading to create the enhancement of Team Members facilities and experience and it was resulting a great feedback from the Management and Team Members most importantly. We also created a Monthly Calendar for Team Member Appreciaton Day which was a new innitiative at that time.
How do you approach team building and ensuring a positive work culture within your organization?
Bonding is really important and regularly at our property we have some recognition events to celebrate individuals as well as Team. It has proven to give a positive impact on Team Members bonding as well as trust with the Leaders.
What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to have a successful career in hospitality?
Stay humble and hungry with a learning mindset. You can learn from many sources, from text book, a General Manager or from a Waiter or even the Landscaping Team. When you stop opening yourself to new things, your growth will stop too.
How do you handle customer feedback and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction?
Team Members are my customer, feedback is handled confidentially and will be action based on priority.
What are your future goals and aspirations within the hospitality industry?
Still want to develop myself in Human Resources field and wish to have a chance to work on Corporate Level.
