Director of Food & Beverage at Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
E: Describe your typical day in a sentence.
Lee: My day usually starts with a 5km run before work, an action-packed day at the hotel, a home-cooked meal and a bit a news on the TV.
E: So how did you come to be the Director of F&B for Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu?
L: Previously I worked at the Radisson Blu in Phuket, Thailand as executive chef. Consequently, I was offered this position at the new Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu. It was impossible to say no.
E: What’s the toughest part of your job?
L: Being away from my wife and daughter. My wife has a good job and my daughter goes to a great school in Thailand. It wouldn’t make sense to disrupt our current situation and have them move here, but we still manage to see each other every four to six weeks.
E: And what makes you smile at work?
L: When I see my team operate in a genuine way. Indonesians are naturally very nice and I love it when the staff serve from the heart. A sure recipe for success!
E: What motivates you?
L: There is no better feeling and no better sign of a good leader than when the guests are happy and the team is engaged.
E: Would things fall apart if you weren’t around?
L: Certainly not, my team knows what is expected of them. They are an empowered bunch and they take pride in giving the guests the best possible service.
E: Who in your team deserves more recognition and why?
L: It is difficult to single out just one person. Everyone on the team has an important role to play. Without each individual’s contribution we would not be able to achieve our goals.
E: Why should people choose Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu to dine?
L: Because we have a little something for everyone. I decided right from the beginning that the F&B offerings were not going to be complicated. Simple, tasty, chef-crafted food and great, creative beverages is our culture. Be it local cuisine, western favourites, authentic Italian, wood-fired pizza, char-grilled burgers, smashing cocktails or healing elixirs, our food and drinks are always hand-crafted and prepared by people with passion.
E: Away from work, what’s your favourite place to eat?
L: I have always loved noodles. Any kind of noodles. There is a Vietnamese restaurant here in Uluwatu that I visit occasionally which serves a tasty pho ga. But I also enjoy cooking pastas and Thai food at home.
E: How do you unwind?
L: Call my loved ones back home. It’s always very relaxing to hear my family’s voices and to know they are doing well.
E: Finally, any advice for those looking to break into the industry?
L: You must possess a high level of integrity and honesty. Being a team player with a positive attitude is also important. But most of all be prepared to work hard. This is probably the number one reason why I am where I am today.
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
Jalan Pemutih, Uluwatu, Pecatu
Bali 80364, Indonesia
