Melih Eker

Director of Food & Beverage at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place

: What are your responsibilities?

Melih: I oversee the overall operations of food and beverage at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place.

: What makes a typical day?

M: At Ritz-Carlton, my day starts with the operations line-up so I know what is going on in the hotel. My day progresses with a walk through the restaurants and banqueting events, engaging with the guests and our Ladies and Gentlemen, and ensuring the service quality is delivered to guest satisfaction. Also, I do a daily catch up with my Ladies and Gentlemen before the day ends.

: Your best attribute?

M: I am commended every time for my positive attitude and selfdrive. As an ambassador of Ritz-Carlton, I always welcome guests, opportunities and challenges with full positivity. I always approach things in a positive manner and am determined to work harder and make sure things get done in a timely fashion. I pride myself on seeing things getting completed and I like to involve all the parties. I drive myself with purpose and align with excellence.

: Team player or team leader?

M: I am a team leader and, at the same time, whenever required I can be a good team player too. I believe great team leaders don't dictate the work to be done, they encourage team members to share their thoughts or vision and provide feedback.

: Who has been the most influential figure in your career to date? M: It is hard to mention only one name as I have been working with many great leaders. Every single property I have worked at is like a school to me. Therefore, mentioning only one inspiring leader wouldn't be fair to all the leaders I have worked with.

: Name one really special thing about your hotel?

M: Our Ladies and Gentlemen. They are the most important resource in creating guests for life.

: How do you unwind?

M: I love spending time with family and friends whenever I get time off.

: Dead or alive, who would you like to take out to dinner?

M: Chef Grant Achatz from Alinea Restaurant. I would love to get to know his career aspirations and the motivation behind his creativity. The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place