INTERVIEW WITH PIERRICK GAUTIER GENERAL MANAGER NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL AND SPA, BALI 

What did you love most about working as the General Manager of Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa, Bali
Leading this cultural journey in our resort fills me with pride. Beyond the responsibility of upholding our hotel’s standing in Balinese hospitality, what truly resonates with me is the authenticity of my team. They genuinely care for each guest, making them the true treasure of our property sentiment warmly acknowledged by our beloved guests.
What adds an extra layer to this role is the balance between optimizing and strategizing, coupled with the hands-on interaction with our guests. This dynamic combination ensures not only that we’re on the right track to maintain quality but also that we’re actively shaping a guest experience that exceeds expectations.

Having worked in several hotels and resorts in Indonesia and abroad, what attracted you to go to Bali?
The reason I came to Bali? Opportunity in Nusa Dua area. It’s a top-notch location with big, established properties, which suits my skills. Mix between leisure and business traveller, diverse market here makes it a great move for any career journey. 

You started your career in the F&B department, why did you choose to step out of it?
In a career journey, you mark out milestones deciding what, when, and where you aim to be at specific points in time. This is why I stepped out of F&B; I had a goal set earlier in my career. The constant inspiration for more led me to understand that to be a 360-degree General Manager, one must explore the overall understanding of hotel operations.
As a GM, my role isn’t just about guiding the team; it’s about being an added value to them. It’s about bringing more to the table, contributing not only to the success of the operation but also to the growth and development of every team member.

Previously you worked in several international chains. What is the most challenging thing in your current position you have experienced so far?
Challenges haven’t been specific; it’s all about adaptations. The transition to independence marked a significant shift in my career, especially in networking and benchmarking without the access to an ecosystem that a group can provide.
However, during my time here, I’ve discovered that Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa has thrived independently for 40 years. Its renowned status persists due to the mastery of service excellence accumulated over the years. While being guided by a group can be reassuring, the freedom without specific guidelines empowers us to be more creative and go above and beyond, ensuring our competitiveness in the market.

What is the most memorable achievement in your career at hospitality industry?
I don’t have any specific achievements to highlight. Along my career journey, I’ve crossed paths with numerous individuals. If I were to highlight something as an achievement, it would be the opportunity to develop, inspire, and witness some of my team members grow into leaders, taking on more significant roles in their careers. For me, sharing knowledge and fostering growth is a key secret to success. 

What do you think is the secret to your great career in the hospitality industry?
The passion of Hospitability. It’s an industry with multiple angles. Success remains in exceptional individuals trusting while maintaining control. Agility is one of the secrets to navigate in this environment with so much disruption. Recognizing that what you radiate to guests, your employees should also absorb positively, becoming an inspiration.

Having several F&B outlets in your resort, what is one favourite restaurant/food that you can recommend to us?
If I had to pick one, it has to be our Tamarind restaurant. Great beachside setup with an incredible view. The food is delightful, Mediterranean experience that caters to all tastes. I am not just saying it in 2023, we were awarded the Best Mediterranean Restaurant in Bali by The World Luxury Restaurant Awards. 

How do you maintain a work and life balance?
Balancing it all isn’t that simple. I’m committed to my work, but family time is a must. Sports and exercise are essential for keeping everything in check, both mentally and physically. Being in Bali makes it easier the weather, the people all contributing to helping me tackle whatever comes my way.