INTERVIEW WITH I WAYAN RAKSA GENERAL MANAGER RENAISSANCE BALI ULUWATU RESORT & SPA RESORT & SPA

Congratulations on your new role! What does it mean to you personally and professionally to be appointed as General Manager of Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa Resort & Spa?
Thank you so much. Being appointed as the General Manager of Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa Resort & Spa is truly an honor and an important milestone in my career. On a personal level, it’s very meaningful to lead a resort that embodies creativity, discovery, and authentic connection, values that really resonate with me. Professionally, it is an exciting opportunity to further strengthen Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa’s position within the island’s premium hospitality landscape, to continue driving business growth, and to elevate the overall guest experience. Most of all, I am looking forward to empowering our amazing team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, and contributing to the success of both the Renaissance brand and the broader Marriott International portfolio.

Your hospitality journey began in 1996 as a Valet Attendant in the Laundry Department at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Looking back, what key lessons from those early years have shaped your leadership style today?
Those early years taught me lessons that I still carry with me every day. Starting in the Laundry Department gave me a real appreciation for how every single role, no matter how small it might seem, plays an important part in delivering exceptional guest experiences. I learned humility, teamwork, and the importance of consistency and attention to detail. It also showed me that genuine hospitality begins behind the scenes, in the way we work together and support one another.

Those experiences shaped my leadership philosophy today: leading with empathy, integrity, and by example. I have always believed that great leaders serve others first and when your team feels valued, respected, and empowered, they will deliver their best.

You’ve worked across different brands under Marriott Bonvoy. What excites you most about leading a premium lifestyle resort like Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa compared to your past experiences?
What excites me most is the chance to lead a brand that celebrates creativity and discovery in such an expressive way. Having worked with several Marriott brands, I have seen how each one connects with a different type of traveler and Renaissance really stands out for its personality. It’s sophisticated, but also bold, curious, and connected to the local culture. This role gives me the freedom to think beyond traditional hospitality, to inspire the team to craft experiences that reflect the vibrant energy of Uluwatu and connect our guests to the true spirit of Bali. For me, it’s not just about running a resort; it’s about creating a place where every moment sparks inspiration and every interaction feel meaningful. That’s what makes this journey with Renaissance so special.

In 2020, you were recognized as APEC General Manager of the Year for Select Brands. What does this recognition mean to you, and how do you plan to bring that same spirit of excellence to Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa?
That recognition in 2020 was a very humbling moment. It wasn’t just about me; it was really a reflection of the incredible team I worked with, and the culture of excellence and collaboration we built together. It reminded me that success always comes from people who feel inspired, trusted, and proud of what they do. At Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa, I want to bring that same energy, to create an environment where creativity thrives, where the team feels empowered to take initiative, and where we combine strong performance with heart. My goal is for our success to be measured not only by numbers, but also by the positive impact we make on our associates, our guests, and our community.

Could you share any recent updates at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa Resort & Spa, and what exciting experiences or venues can guests look forward to in the near future?
There’s a lot happening at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa right now, and it’s an exciting time for the team.

We recently achieved Green Globe Certification, which is something we’re extremely proud of. It reflects our strong commitment to sustainability, from reducing energy and waste, to supporting our local community and preserving Balinese culture. It’s a big step toward showing that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand.

We’ve also refreshed our meetings and events concept under the theme “Unique Experience, Every Time.” Instead of the usual meeting setup, we now offer creative touches like themed coffee breaks, Chef’s Garden and Pasar Senggol are two favorites, bringing local flavor and fun into corporate events. Guests can also host events at Roosterfish Beach Club, one of our most vibrant venues, offering an inspiring oceanfront setting that can be fully bought out for private celebrations or corporate functions.

On the leisure side, we’re enhancing experiences that truly connect guests with the essence of Bali. Whether it’s joining a pottery class at our Clay Craft Pottery Studio, participating in our coral planting initiative that supports local reef restoration efforts, doing sunrise yoga overlooking the ocean, or enjoying holistic treatments at The Spa, everything is designed to inspire discovery.

Looking ahead, our goal is to solidify Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa as Uluwatu’s Premier Lifestyle Event Destination, a place where business, celebration, and discovery come together seamlessly. Every visit should feel fresh, inspiring, and full of those unexpected moments that define the Renaissance experience.

Among the resort’s F&B outlets: Double Ikat, Clay Craft, and Roosterfish Beach Club, is there a particular restaurant or signature dish that you would personally recommend to guests?
That’s always a tricky question, it feels like picking a favorite child! Each of our outlets has its own personality and charm.

If you are after something authentically Indonesian, I’d recommend starting with Double Ikat. Ikan Bakar Jimbaran is one of my favorites, it’s rich in flavor, beautifully presented, and deeply rooted in local tradition. What makes Double Ikat special is how it tells the story of Indonesian cuisine in a modern, elegant way, while staying true to its heritage.

Clay Craft, on the other hand, has a more casual, creative vibe, perfect for breakfast or lunch. I love how it blends food and art, the restaurant features its own pottery studio inside, where guests can join a hands-on pottery class. It’s a unique way to turn a simple meal into an immersive experience that perfectly captures the Renaissance spirit of discovery.

And then there’s Roosterfish Beach Club, our lively seaside venue at Pandawa Beach. It’s all about good food, good music, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The Seafood Platter, steaks and pizzas are absolute must-tries.

Each venue reflects a different side of Bali, from authentic tradition to creative expression and coastal fun. Together, they embody what Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa is all about: unexpected discoveries through food, culture, and connection.

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in such a dynamic and demanding role?
That’s a great question. Our industry moves fast, so finding balance takes real intention.

For me, it’s about being fully present. When I’m at work, I’m focused on leading the team and driving results. But when I’m off, I make it a point to disconnect, spend time with family, and recharge. That way, I can return with clarity and energy. Living in Bali helps too, it’s hard not to find peace when you’re surrounded by so much natural beauty. Sometimes it’s as simple as taking a morning walk, catching a sunrise, or just pausing to appreciate where we are. I also believe balance isn’t about splitting time evenly, it’s about harmony. There will always be busy days, but if you love what you do and you’re surrounded by great people, it becomes a lot easier. And as leaders, we set the tone. Showing that it’s possible to work passionately and take care of yourself encourages the whole team to do the same.