When and why did you join the industry?
I grew up in the Hospitality Industry from a very young age as my father was a Senior Executive with Cathay Pacific and Hyatt International in Asia-Pacific. Hotels, planes and travel were very much a part of my life and I naturally gravitated to it given such exciting experiences as a youngster.
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What do you like most about your job?
I am part of a very exciting group, SilverNeedle Hospitality, that have a great history and existing portfolio of hotels & resorts in Asia-Pacific and very exciting growth plans. We have a fantastic and cohesive team that are driven to achieve. I am proud to have been part of integrating an organisation that comprises of a strong and diverse group of properties.
What’s one of the biggest achievements of your career thus far?
Certainly there have been a few over the last two decades of my career. My role in the development of SilverNeedle Hospitality to where it is today is certainly high on the list.
Who do you admire and see as a role model in the travel industry?
While being a career long Hospitality Sales & Marketing professional and Hotelier, it is the airline sector with Dato Tony Fernandes, Chairman of Air Asia who with his vision and determination has changed the landscape and opportunity of air travel in Asia-Pacific. This touches all sectors of the greater Hospitality Industry as we evolve.
What destinations are on your travel bucket list?
Having been fortunate to travel from an early age and then through my career I have been able to experience some wonderful destinations. Still on the list is Bhutan, Brazil and Tibet.
What do you want to see improve in the industry?
From a global perspective, streamlined visa processes and aligned as well as effective advocacy for the travel and tourism industry particularly in relation to unreasonable outbound travel taxes, for example the UK. From a larger community perspective, I’d like to see a greater understanding of the value and importance of Hospitality and Travel to the economy.
What’s a memorable travel experience you’ve had (good or bad)?
As a 7 year old, sitting in the cockpit on a very clear early evening of a Cathay Pacific flight landing at Hong Kong’s famous Kai Tak Airport - barely flying above the apartments and buildings. A lifelong memory!
What are three things you always take with you when travelling?
For Business essential – Samsung Galaxy Tablet, Blackberry. For Leisure – my family and Golf Clubs. For the Hong Kong Rugby 7’s weekend plenty of Berocca…
Name someone famous you’d like to travel with and a destination you’d like to go with them.
Sir Richard Branson on a trip on Virgin Galactic into space.
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