Cluster Director of Food & Beverage at Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach & Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach
E: What are your responsibilities?
A: My main responsibility is guiding and inspiring a team of over 140 talented professionals in both the kitchen and service areas. Creating a close-knit, motivated team is at the heart of delivering unforgettable guest experiences. I also curate our food and beverage programme, making sure it grows with our guests’ tastes, the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the latest market trends. Exploring new dining spots is a key part of my job, keeping me in tune with the industry and ever-evolving guest expectations.
E: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: My mornings begin bright and early, reviewing the day’s priorities and mapping out the schedule. I then set off on a walk through the resort, exchanging greetings with team members and chatting with guests along the way. My day is never complete without a double ristretto and tasting a variety of breakfast dishes from both the buffet and à la carte menu. This daily ritual keeps me grounded and deeply connected to both my team and our guests.
E: Who has been the most influential figure in your career to date?
A: My mother had the greatest influence on me. She was my first source of motivation and, in many ways, my first boss when I was young. She taught me the value of hard work, discipline, and taking pride in everything I do, lessons that continue to shape my career today.
E: What is your greatest strength?
A: My top strengths are commercial awareness, nurturing talent, and crafting unforgettable food and beverage experiences. At SugarBEATS, I see my role at these properties as more than managing three outlets. I am shaping a vibrant food and beverage culture where each venue shines with its own personality. They’re all inspired by the spirit of Bintan while always upholding the high standards our guests expect from IHG Hotels & Resorts®.
E: What makes the property’s culinary offerings special?
A: SugarBEATS unites three unique dining experiences: Ocean Kitchen, Tiki Bar, and Stix Satay Bar. Guests can savour fresh-caught seafood, sip on tropical cocktails, and indulge in aromatic satays while lounging by the pool or gazing at endless ocean views. Each spot has its own charm, but together, they capture the vibrant coastal flavours and easygoing spirit that define Bintan.
E: How do you unwind?
A: For me, the perfect way to unwind is embracing what Bintan offers best: relaxing by the sea, sharing delicious meals with loved ones, and letting time slow down naturally.
E: Dead or alive, who would you most like to take out to dinner?
A: Without a doubt, my mother. I miss every part of her, especially the love she poured into her cooking and the warmth that filled our meals. If I could, I would cherish one more dinner together.
Exquisite Taste Volume 52
Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach
W: ihg.com
IG: @hotelindigo.bintan
Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach
W: ihg.com
IG: @holidayinnresortbintan
