Director of Food & Beverage at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta
E: Describe your typical day in a sentence.
Diky: I start with an early morning meeting with my team before checking our restaurants. I like speaking to the guests at our outlets to get their feedback on their dining experience and how we can serve them better.
E: So how did you come to be the F&B director for The Dharmawangsa Jakarta?
D: I started as a banquet houseman at Hilton Jakarta before joining the Four Seasons group and working in Jakarta, Riyadh, Singapore and Seychelles. Previously, I worked at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta from 2012 to 2014. I had stints at two five-star hotels in Jakarta before returning here in early 2017 as the F&B director. You can say it’s a homecoming of sorts!
E: What’s the toughest part of your job?
D: Personally, I think the hardest part is to continually achieve and maintain the highest standards expected of The Dharmawangsa. For that, I am fortunate that we have a capable team at The Dharmawangsa.
E: And what makes you smile at work?
D: When the hard work and dedication by our team is acknowledged by the guests.
E: What motivates you?
D: My family is my main motivation. It goes without saying my amazing colleagues too.
E: Would things fall apart if you weren’t around?
D: Absolutely not, we have so many talented individuals in our team that are experienced and well-trained. My job is to help facilitate them to serve our guests better; if I’m not around I trust them take charge and run things smoothly.
E: Who, in your team, deserves more recognition and why?
D: Each and every member of our team deserves recognition, from the back office to the front desk. We rely on each other and any success is a team achievement.
E: Why should people choose The Dharmawangsa Jakarta to dine?
D: Besides The Dharmawangsa Jakarta’s unique ambience and charming Indonesian décor, guests come for our talented Executive Chef Felix Budisetiawan’s delightful culinary creations made from handpicked artisan ingredients.
E: Away from work, what’s your favourite place to eat?
D: I love Indonesian food. However, my teenage daughter always drags me to new and happening restaurants in Jakarta, which is good since I can keep myself up to date on the latest trends in the industry.
E: How do you unwind?
D: I’m a simple family man. I love spending time with my family and watching my favourite shows.
E: Finally, any advice for those looking to break into the industry?
D: Hospitality is a growing industry and we always welcome those with a passion for the industry and the dedication to commit 110 percent.
