Meet Yani Suwanda, the skilled General Manager of Padma Hotel Bandung who leads this exceptional hotel in Bandung with passion and dedication. With her vast experience in hospitality, Yani is well-equipped to establish Padma Hotel Bandung as a sought-after brand for business travelers, families, and leisure travelers alike. She ensures that Padma Hotel Bandung offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
We spoke to Yani Suwanda recently to find out exactly what her vision and hustle are to make this hotel so extraordinary.
Q: Before we start the interview, could you tell us why you chose the hospitality industry? Did you have a different dream before entering this field?
A: Essentially, I find myself getting bored quite easily. I believe the hospitality industry is dynamic, with ever-changing customer behavior and needs. This dynamic nature triggers our creativity to ensure guests leave happy. It's like a constantly evolving industry, and I thrive on that dynamism.
Q: How would you describe Padma Hotel Bandung to someone who has never visited?
A: It's a place to rejuvenate your senses, offering a stunning view of a beautiful mountain, fresh air, the soothing sounds of nature, delectable food, and facilities suitable for all ages—all just steps away from the city center.
Q: As the General Manager, what are your goals for Padma Hotel Bandung?
A: My goal is to make this hotel the number one destination, providing exceptional experiences for both guests and employees. Guests should have an exceptional vacation, while employees should enjoy an exceptional working experience.
Q: Can you describe your daily routine as a General Manager?
A: Typically, I arrive at the office an hour early to set the mood. I begin the day by listening to music or a podcast and reading a book. Afterward, I meet with my secretary to go through my agenda, which is usually full of appointments with subordinates seeking opinions, approvals, or field checks. When my schedule allows, I walk around the hotel to assess the situation. It's a day filled with meetings.
Q: As a kid-friendly hotel in Bandung, what activities can children enjoy during their stay at Padma Hotel Bandung?
A: Our kids' facilities, located in the Adventure Park at the bottom of the hotel, cater to all ages. Younger kids can enjoy a playground, feed rabbits, catch fish, play with birds, paint, and engage in handicrafts. For older kids, we offer activities like flying fox, wall climbing, archery, soccer, basketball, table tennis, billiards, and mini-golf—all in one centralized spot. Additionally, we have a heated pool suitable for all ages.
Q: How does Padma Hotel Bandung maintain its status as one of the best hotels in Bandung?
A: The key lies in our staff. We treat them like a Sundanese family, focusing on "Silih Asah, Silih Asih, Silih Asuh." Silih Asah ensures they have sufficient skills through appropriate training, Silih Asih redirects mistakes with respect, and Silih Asuh, when promoted, involves mentoring from senior managers to develop leadership skills.
Q: How do you describe your leadership style?
A: Situational leadership. It depends on my team. If everyone performs well, I observe from the back. If there's a split, I'm in the middle—leading those who need guidance and observing those moving in the right direction. If the entire team struggles, I take the lead, setting the pace and ensuring they head in the right direction.
Q: You've spent years in the industry. What aspects of hospitality do you consistently enjoy?
A: Bringing happiness to people while having fun—it's a simple and affordable joy.
Q: What, in your opinion, makes a great hotelier?
A: I believe flexibility, meaning adaptability and creativity, is essential. In the hotelier industry, things are always changing.
Q: What are your upcoming plans for Padma Hotel Bandung in the coming months or years?
A: Starting next year, we plan to build family wings with dedicated family facilities. This allows us to separate non-family clients from family clients, ensuring both groups have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Q: Now, some more casual questions. What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
A: I enjoy reading, mostly books about leadership.
Q: How do you spend your long holidays?
A: Most of my time is dedicated to my family, especially my only son and my husband. I focus on family and reading.
Q: So, you're not someone who enjoys traveling?
A: I like to travel, but it's primarily to entertain my child. Personally, I find satisfaction in a good book.
Q: You seem like a simple person. Besides leadership books, do you have an interest in other genres, like novels?
A: No, due to my frequent interactions with people, I find solace in recharging my energy by being alone.
Q: Interesting. Thank you very much for your time.
A: My pleasure.
Padma Hotel Bandung
Jl. Rancabentang No.56-58, Bandung
P: (022) 2030333
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