Occupation:
Food and Beverage Service Group Mgr.
Time in Japan:
8 months
What brought you to Japan?
Career development and the Asian experience within a hotel environment. I needed some
overseas experience in order to move up.
What do you do here?
I cover all facets of food and beverage, from training new staff and forecasting, to
developing promotional activities with an emphasis on implementing the Sheraton worldwide
bible for all our services.
How did you get involved in the hotel business?
I guess I have to thank my family, as they have always been extremely hospitable and
planted the seed early in my childhood. Hence the hospitality/hotel business seemed
perfect for me.
Was there any special training you had to go through?
I have completed a degree in business management and am currently in the process of
finishing my MBA with Oxford Surrey University in London. It' a lot of work but worth it.
Have you worked at other hotels outside of Japan?
I have been in the hospitality industry for the last twelve years, and over the last four
I have held the position of Operations Manager-F&B at Conrad Jupiters Hilton on the
Gold Coast in Queensland.
How is working at a Japanese hotel different from other hotels?
Being an international chain, the Sheraton main frame of work is very similar. However,
when it comes to decision making, it's a different story.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
Back in 1996 I planned my future career for the next ten years and I am right on target,
as well as working in a five-star environment.
What do you like most about Japan?
I like the safety and the variety of lifestyles and activities. For example, you can
choose a conservative lifestyle or an elaborate one and no one will say anything about
your decision.
If you could change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
Encourage individuality and stating one's opinion. For example, we often walk out of a
long meeting without actually coming to any conclusions or making any decisions. For some
of us, this is really frustrating. It would be a lot easier if everyone had their say in
the matter. It would speed up business by quite a lot.
What's the weirdest thing you've ever seen or experienced in Japan?
An American and an Englishman discussing in Japanese what seemed to be a very important
contract. Also, at karaoke, the Japanese can sing English songs very well but aren't able
to make a very simple sentence in English. I find that amazing.
What's your favorite area in Japan?
I'm still discovering new things and places all the time. I'm keeping myself busy, so ask
me again in a few months.
If you could take one thing back from Japan to your native country, what would it
be?
Definitely the train system. It's just fantastic here.
What's your recipe for a happy and successful life in Japan?
Bring your honey, learn the language and stop comparing Japan with your home country. Live
life.
Occupation:
LIFE IN JAPAN: