The Vibrant Hotelier
Born and raised in Kolkata, India, Hemal Jain’s passion for delivering the authentic meaning of luxury hospitality is deeply embedded in his DNA. Bringing his extensive experience working with leading luxury brands, Hemal joined Alila Hotels and Resorts in 2009. Exquisite Taste sits and chats with the leading figure behind Alila Villas Uluwatu to get some insight into his well articulate thoughts.
By Billy Bagus
E: Tell us a bit of your background. What drove you to pursue a career in hospitality?
A: It has always been my passion to be associated with this industry and I have always been intrigued by it. I started my career with Oberoi Hotels and Resorts and then moved on with Park Hyatt Goa before joining Alila, which is now back under the Hyatt umbrella. I am loving every bit of my time in the industry managing iconic hotels, embracing local culture and people.
E: What made you decide to move to Indonesia?
A: It was an internal transfer in the company and what better way to come to Indonesia and manage iconic hotels designed by iconic architects. Absolutely love every moment of it.
E: What do you enjoy the most about the hotel industry?
A: Meeting with people, whether it be different guests or team members, and each day not being the same. Those are some of the most amazing aspects of our industry.
E: What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far? Explain a bit for our readers
A: We are in the middle of a life changing pandemic. I don’t think we will ever see this again to the extent of what we have seen during this time. It has been one heck of a ride but what’s most satisfying is that we have kept all the stakeholders together and binded in this process and kept the Alila Villas Uluwatu flag flying high at all times. It is our flagship resort in South-East Asia and we have managed to keep it together despite plenty of obstacles. What’s also most satisfying is the way the team has rallied around all the decisions we have made and supported us on everything. Very proud of them and what they do.
E: How would you define leadership and what do you think is the most important quality to have to be one?
A: For me, leadership is all about putting people first. All the decisions that rally around in our day-to-day activities should be keeping in mind the welfare of our people. For this, you need to be deeply rooted to everything you do – it will fall into place.
E: What can we expect from Alila Villas Uluwatu in the near future? Any project that we should anticipate?
A: We do not have any major projects, but yes, we are all eagerly waiting for the borders to open up and to welcome guests from all around the world.
E: Could you explain the philosophy of Alila Villas Uluwatu. What kind of authentic local experience your guests will have access to?
A: Alila Villas Uluwatu is a design-focused property by WOHA, integrated with the architecture seamlessly and blending with the natural environment. We cater to local destination experiences and providing authenticity in everything we do, like taking guests into the middle of the ocean and letting them enjoy the sunset, sipping their favourite Champagne etc.
E: How do you want to be remembered?
A: I do not have any wish on how I want to be remembered, but as someone who has done everything to the best of his ability by keeping people at the centre of things.
Alila Villas Uluwatu
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