Ali Nihad

Director of Sales and Marketing, Mandapa, a Ritz-carlton Reserve

Q: Describe your responsibilities in 10 words or fewer. A: Planning and executing strategies to achieve targets and developing associates.

Q: What makes a typical day?

A: I love waking up to the sunrise, a bit of exercise and enjoy a good breakfast with my family before I head to work. I'd like to think that I am presentable at the start of the day and make a conscious effort. The work day starts off with the morning line up, this is where we discuss briefly the events of the previous day and what is planned ahead for the day. I have a daily routine of work I follow over time that I have adopted. On a typical working day, we have scheduled meetings, as well as hosting familiarisation trips and entertainment for media and agents.

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

A: I guess knowing when to turn off. My mind constantly thinks about what we can do better every time I read reports or reply to emails. And often times I don't realise that the time is ticking way too fast (but in a strange way I like it).

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

A: Having to lead the most talented and lovely team and being a part of someone's career development gives me great pleasure.

Q: Who has been the most influential figure in your career? A: Oh a lot of people, but if had to single out the most influential figure it would be Peter Foreman, director of sales and distribution for luxury brands ( APEC) at Marriott International. Peter's insights on commercial strategy, leadership and human values have made me not only focus on my work but they have also made me a better person. He brings a lot of positive energy.

Q: Name one really special thing about your hotel.

A: Definitely the people. Besides the gorgeous building and facilities, Mandapa has got one of the strongest and most solid teams I've ever worked with. They are the “behind the scenes” to the daily wow experiences of our guests.

Q: How do you unwind?

A: I love exploring new places with my wife Afsy, son Luke and daughter Emily. We all moved to Bali from the Maldives when I got this position three months ago.

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

A: I have always been intrigued by architecture. So an architect would possibly have been the path I might have chosen. mandapareserve.com