INTERVIEW WITH BJÖRN-HENNING, GENERAL MANAGER OF RADISSON BLU BALI ULUWATU

Could you please tell us a little bit about yourself?

German by nationality for almost 50 years, Asian by residence for almost 20 years. Not married, but not single either. Love to travel and the experience from getting there to arriving back home.

Tell us about your work and being the General Manager of a new luxury resort in Bali.

I always wanted to work in hotels since I was young and I have never wanted to do anything else. I believe it is that love for the industry that makes me re-think everything about it constantly.  ‘How can we do things differently to keep our guests and team engaged?’  That question essentially defines my work.  Reviewing with my team what we do and how to do it differently is a big part of my day.

Tell us what makes your resort different from the other five star hotels in Bali.
Although the architecture and interior design of the resort is Balinese inspired, it is unique in its contemporary approach to its inspiration and the focus on the ease of movement and comfort of the guest. With 58 square meters our rooms offer more space than some villas. Restaurants, Bars, gardens, meeting rooms, spa, gym, boutique and pool are all in one convenient level while still providing a very free
and spacious environment, where everybody can find his or her private corner. Our ‘Yes I Can!’ service ethos is of course at the heart of everything we do, enabling all of our team members to do what it takes to meet and exceed our guests’ expectations.

What is the most challenging thing in your current position you have experienced so far and why did you decide to work in Bali?

Bridging the generation gap.  I have a very young dynamic team. That keeps me on my toes all the time as the way people think and react is not only culturally influenced but also generational.  Ending up in Bali is a fortunate coincidence as I moved with the Radisson Hotel Group. I had visited Bali before and experienced the charm of the island and its people. So when the offer came to move here, I did not hesitate.

Share with us the most memorable moment that has ever happened during your career
An earthquake during a conference, four international government delegations staying in the hotel at the same time, a ‘full house’ on the first day or operation of a new hotel or even an Oscar winning actress having a bronchitis attack in the lobby. Over the course of 25 years in the industry there are so many memories that you just would not want to miss. Some were fun, some were scary and others were career milestones, but none necessarily is less meaningful than others. All are part of my continued love for the hotel world.

If you could pick one place to be your dream destination anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

As I am blessed to already be living in an island paradise, I suppose it would have to be somewhere urban. I do love history. So, ancient cities with large parts of their heritage still intact fascinate me. Agra and Borobudur are definitely on the list.

Describe yourself in three words.

Work in progress (still)!

What is your biggest weakness?

Choosing food over exercise more often than not.

What do you do for fun during your day off?

Preferably something outdoors and preferably something where the dog can tag along.

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