Executive Assistant Manager of Food & Beverage at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place
E : Describe your typical day in a sentence.
Samir: My days are usually very busy, but also challenging
and fun.
E : Sounds exciting – so how did you come to be the F&B Director of The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place?
Samir: Through a lot of hard work and dedication. I also try to remain open to new opportunities as they come. After working in the US for eight years, I was offered an opportunity to move to the Middle East with the Ritz-Carlton, where I stayed for five years. I was then offered this opportunity to work in the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place. This is how I ended up in Jakarta!
E : What’s the toughest part of your job?
Samir: Maintaining the reputation of being the best hotel in Jakarta
E : And the most rewarding part?
Samir: It’s very rewarding to see my team members learning, improving their skills day by day and growing in their careers. It is also rewarding when we meet and exceed our goals for the property.
E : At work, what makes you smile?
Samir: When the operation is busy, when the team is happy and when our guests are enjoying a true Ritz-Carlton ‘wow’ experience during their stay with us.
E : And what motivates you?
Samir: I am motivated by the personal and professional goals I have set for myself. I am often motivated when speaking with others in the industry, which inspires me to be better and to achieve more. Facing new challenges can be a great motivation too.
E : Would things fall apart if you weren’t around?
Samir: Not at all. Our team at the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place are experts in what they do!
E : Who, in your team, deserves more recognition and why?
Samir: I think everyone in my team works hard enough to deserve more recognition than they get. We try to show them our appreciation for all of their hard work when we can.
E : Why should people choose The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place to stay or dine?
Samir: We provide an experience, not just a meal or a room to stay. Every interaction with our guests is personalised. We strive to make our guests feel welcome and comfortable, as if they are in their own home – plus the luxury five-star services of course!
E : Away from work, what’s your favourite place to eat?
Samir: There are so many great places to eat in Jakarta and I try to experience as many as I can.
E : How do you unwind?
Samir: I love to spend my free time with my wife and my three-year-old daughter. To de-stress, I try to relax with a spa treatment.
E : Finally, any advice for those looking to break into the industry?
Samir: The makings of success in our industry are to have a strong work ethic, to be a team player, and to possess a passion for this industry. Without these, to become a success in this field will be very difficult.
