General Manager
at KU DE TA
—
E : Describe your typical day in a sentence.
Bruce: I arrive at work early, have a coffee and embrace the day ahead. It’s always a beautiful day in Bali.
E : So how did you come to be the general manager of KU DE TA?
Bruce: Well that’s a very long story that starts in South Africa where I grew up, via several high-end / high-volume bars and restaurants in London and onwards to Bali. We probably don’t have time for the full story, so maybe you guys can come down for a cocktail and I’ll fill you in.
E : What’s the toughest part of your job?
Bruce: My schedule can sometimes be challenging as it impacts how much time I’m able to spend with my family, but apart from that I love most aspects of my job – it’s always a pleasure to get to see our regular guests and meet so many new people each day.
E : And what makes you smile at work?
Bruce: It would have to be our awesome staff. They always find a way to make me remember to “always look on the bright side of life”. I wish I could whistle the rest of that song now. God bless Monty Python.
E : What motivates you?
Bruce: Remembering that we are here to make every guest’s day special. It always motivates me to see other people happy and enjoying themselves because of what we’re doing.
E : Would things fall apart if you weren’t around?
Bruce: Hell no! We are a solid team and each team member brings different strengths and skillsets. We always work together closely and if someone is missing, others will step up to the challange.
E : Who, in your team, deserves more recognition and why?
Bruce: That’s a tough question as everyone plays their part in the team and internally we try to ensure that everyone is recognised for their hard work. The only thing I would say is that anyone working behind the scenes doesn’t get to see or hear guests leaving KU DE TA saying “ thank you” with a smile on their face. That’s such a satisfying part of my job but our hard working team members in the office, kitchens or back of house don’t get to see that.
E : Why should people choose KU DE TA to dine?
Bruce: I like to think that we are able to offer something for everyone. KU DE TA is such a diverse venue with a variety of offerings; from breakfast or lunch, sunset cocktails, casual snacks and tapas by the sea, to a more refined dining experience under the stars or a tasting menu in our relaxed fine dining restaurant, Mejekawi. I’ve also always found that KU DE TA has a warm feeling that just embraces you from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave – an energy that is hard to find anywhere else.
E : Away from work, what’s your favourite place to eat?
Bruce: Well we’re very lucky in Bali to have such incredible restaurants to choose from. The list is so long! I love Merah Putih, METIS, Sangsaka, Locavore, Sisterfields, Hanks and of course, Naughty Nuri’s for the best ribs on the island. But again, feel free to come and join me for a cocktail for my full list.
E : How do you unwind?
Bruce: Spending time with the family brings me back down to earth fast. It might be laughing at my daughter making a moustache out of blue tack and doing her best Italian impression, helping my son build a Lego Darth Vader or sitting with my beautiful partner in crime, Silvia, over a glass (or two) of wine. That’s all every man needs.
E : Finally, any advice for those looking to break into the industry?
Bruce: Start from the bottom and get to learn and respect every aspect along the way. You need to understand everyone from the top to the bottom so you can work together as a team. This is a job that needs love, so love it, embrace it, work with it and you will reap the benefits.
