INTERVIEW WITH CAROL WALLER, GENERAL MANAGER OF HOLIDAY INN RESORT BALI BENOA
Could you share about your background? And what do you want to be when you grow up?
I am originally from Argentina and have spent 16 years with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) across Asia and Europe in a variety of roles.
When I grew up I would like to be a good baker,an ambulance driver, a hotel owner, a yoga instructor, a great mom and a philanthropist.
As the General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa, could you share some distinctive features of the property that differ your brand from the rest?
Our owner is very passionate about wood work and this has translated onto the elegant yet functional design of our hotel. Guests will be able to find wood and stone artistry at the different areas of our hotel, as well as different picture perfect features and locations.
We have a very friendly and professional team who is heartedly dedicated to knowing and understanding our guests’ needs.
Our hotel is situated at a prime beach front, which provides beautiful sunrise views and plenty opportunities for water sports for those seeking an active holiday. Alternatively our state of the art Tea Tree Spa allows those in need of pampering and relaxation the perfect environment to unwind.
How would you define ‘leadership’? And what is the most important quality to have for a leader?
I believe in staying away from the spotlight and let the others shine. A leader should be confident about his/her purpose and what his/her legacy will be.
If you could have any kind of animal as pet, which one would you choose and why?
I was brought up on the country side, hence it is very difficult for me to choose a pet, as I have witnessed many animals and insects in their natural environment. Currently I have a cat and a dog which I have adopted from people that could not look after them, however I much more prefer to observe animals in their original habitat.
What is your method of leading your staffs and subordinates? How do you motivate them?
My way of leading starts by removing the word subordinate from the conversation. To motivate myself and others I like to find out “what is in it for us”and the purpose of why we chose to do what we do. It is vital to let the team be themselves and make them proud of what they do.
If you could pick one place in the whole world to be your dream holiday destination, where would it be and why?
Tetiaroa island (in French Polynesia), because of their environmental commitment and its almost untouched beauty
What is your biggest fear? And how would you overcome it?
No fear. Whatever comes will come and I will overcome it as best as I can
What is your plan for Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa next year?
Bring true hospitality to life. Assist the team to understand the meaning and the importance of what we do and how we can change peoples lives by creating memorable experiences whilst staying with us
How do you want to be remembered and where do you see yourself in five years?
I would like to be remembered by somebody able to give others the same opportunities I was given in the past. Somebody who brings joy to people and brings the best out of them.
In the next five years? I‘ll tell you in 2022.
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