Leading with Support
As the general manager of Padma Resort Ubud, Sudiman Arpan leads his team by understanding that every single person in the resort holds an equally important role. He shares some stories and insights about his career in the hospitality industry.
Q: How did you first get into the hospitality industry?
A: It was when I decided to join a hotel school. At that time, Indonesian tourism was heavily promoted. Initially, I wanted to take the English literature major. However, I would have double benefits if I continued my major in the hotel industry. I would learn about hotel operations and I would also get to practise my English more.
Q: You were born in Jambi. How did you end up in Bali?
A: I was in Singapore back then, thinking about coming home to Indonesia for good. I was thinking about Bali, but my ex-boss from Jakarta called first. Two years later, my boss from Singapore called me to join him in Grand Hyatt Bali, and only then I came to Bali.
Q: How would you describe Padma Resort Ubud to those who have never been to the hotel?
A: Padma Resort Ubud is the perfect place to recharge from your busy life with many to offer, from the genuine care of the employees, to the resort that is surrounded by nature with fresh air. We intentionally leave the forest as a part of the resort experience. We have agroforestry, natural forests and well-manicured gardens and landscapes. In addition, we also embrace the local culture as an experience and knowledge for our guests. Don’t forget about the outdoor activities and the Animal Garden that may keep our guests occupied. Last but not least, the heated swimming pool will give you a comfortable swim in the chilly weather.
Q: What can we expect from Padma Resort Ubud in 2024? Is there any upcoming project or programme to share?
A: We continue to do soft maintenance on the property. We will have some additional cultural activities and some surprises may come along.
Q: As a leader, what do you think is the key to successful leadership?
A: I always believe that every employee is equally important. None is more important than others. We function as our designation, and our responsibility is the only thing that makes us different.
Q: What do you think is the most rewarding or memorable moment throughout your career?
A: When I was a front-of-the-house person, it was always a great pleasure to see the guests happy with the service I provided. Now, as I work more in the back of the house, it gives me so much happiness to see people are happy and comfortable with their work and keep on growing under my leadership.
Q: What is the biggest challenge you’ve come across as a general manager?
A: The pandemic was the toughest period. Everything was so uncertain. But the owner has been very kind to all of us, and the employees were well taken care of. During the closure of the hotel, we were still employed even though the hotel was closed down. We maintained the hotel so that it would be ready to be re-opened. Some employees even gained a new hobby of planting as they changed their function to take care of the garden during those times.
Q: What advice would you give someone who wants to get into the hospitality industry?
A: The hotel industry may not be the most popular job, and we often have to work on public holidays and miss family special occasions. However, we witness different human behaviours. I, personally, learned about professionalism and humility, how to react to unpleasant situations, or having conversations from some of the very humble, respectful persons. And ultimately, we could learn from others what we want to become.
Asia Dreams Volume 50
Padma Resort Ubud
Desa Puhu, Payangan
Bali 80572, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3613011111
E: reservation.ubud@padmahotels.com
IG: @padmaubud
