James Wharton

Q: Describe your responsibilities in under 10 words. A: I look after all commercial aspects of the business.

Q: What makes a typical day?

A: Meeting our partners, executing planned actions to achieve our financial goals and, most importantly, working for the amazing associates we have at each resort!

Q: What’s the toughest part of your job?

A: When things happen that are out of our control but have a great impact on our business, that's one of the biggest challenges, but it is also why we are here, to reset and put a new plan in place, in partnership with our teams and clients.

Q: What do you find most satisfying in your job?

A: It is definitely seeing our teams grow and progress in their own professional lives; our associates make us who we are, and it is the most important part of our roles to engage and develop them.

Q: Who has been the most influential figure in your career? A: There have been a few, most of them are Marriott International executives. Our company culture really allows us to have meaningful relationships with our executive leaders.

Q: Name one really special thing about your hotel.

A: For The St. Regis Bali Resort it has to be the private beach and absolute beachfront Strand Villas, while for The Laguna, a Luxury Collection I would have to say our Secret Garden, which is surrounded by our one- and two-bedroom villas; a hidden gem but simply spectacular.

Q: How do you unwind?

A: I spend time with my wife exploring Bali as there is so much to see and do here, but I also like to play golf and tennis.

Q: If you hadn’t taken this career path, what would have chosen?

A: It was always hotels for me. At one stage I did want to be a professional tennis player, but that didn't work out! stregisbali.com