Imelda Dewiratri is the Residence Manager of Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta, a property managed by The Ascott Limited Group. Driven by a passion for hospitality that began when she studied in Nusa Dua, Bali, Imelda's career has spanned various prestigious hotel chains, from local to international. After joining the Tauzia group and advancing from Director of Sales and Marketing, she now leads Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta, continuing her dedication to delivering exceptional service and guest experiences.
Profile of the Month: Imelda Dewiratri, Residence Manager of Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta
You've had a diverse career in the hospitality industry. Could you share the pivotal moments that shaped your career path?
Though I initially avoided working in Jakarta due to its notorious congestion, in 2010, I decided to give it a try. Had I not taken that step, I would not have been able to build my career to where it is today. It became the place where I not only worked but also thrived, making it the longest period I've ever spent in one city.
What motivated you to pursue a career in hospitality management?
I believe the hospitality industry offers immense opportunities, not just for meeting diverse people but also for developing the potential of employees, especially fresh graduates who may still be uncertain about their career paths. With hospitality education now reaching the Bachelor degree level, there’s no need to worry; the industry continues to grow and evolve. Tourism and hospitality are vast sectors, with developments taking place across the country, such as the IKN and any other tourism sector areas, further enhancing opportunities.
Could you share the best features of Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta?
Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta is strategically located in Kuningan, within Jakarta's Golden Triangle, offering easy access to Thamrin, Sudirman, Kuningan, and Gatot Subroto. With convenient entry from both the main and back roads, we are one of the few pet-friendly serviced residences in Jakarta, welcoming guests to bring their beloved pets. Our diverse unit options range from 1-bedroom apartments to a 5-bedroom penthouse. We provide extensive facilities, including a large swimming pool, playground, tennis court, basketball court, and a multi-court, making it ideal for business professionals, embassy staff, and families seeking a weekend staycation, with numerous malls nearby.
As a Residence Manager, leadership plays a crucial role. How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved throughout your career?
Leading by example is essential because we aim to progress together as a team. It’s important to provide guidance and direction while also getting actively involved in the process alongside the team.
In your opinion, what are the key skills and qualities required for successfully managing serviced apartment?
To become a leader, such as in a serviced apartment, I believe learning from experience is crucial. I pursued an education in hospitality with the goal of working in a hotel, and today, the opportunities in hotel management education, whether in F&B or other areas, are widely available. After education, gaining as much experience as possible is key, as it will greatly assist in navigating the job market. It’s also vital to continuously update your skills, as competition with younger, tech-savvy individuals, and advancements in AI, requires us to never stop learning.
What have been the most significant challenges you've faced as a Residence Manager, and how did you overcome them?
The challenge of being from a slightly different generation is the need to constantly update and expand my network. However, I don’t view this as a difficulty; I enjoy it. Challenges, by nature, make life more interesting, and it is overcoming them that brings meaning.
One of the most significant challenges was during the pandemic, a time of immense uncertainty and pressure. We didn’t know when it would end, but despite the confusion, management was highly supportive, gradually providing guidance. Although much of our work shifted online through Zoom meetings and work-from-home setups, we managed to build trust and support each other. Together, we successfully navigated the crisis phase, demonstrating that extraordinary challenges can bring out the best in all of us.
Hospitality trends are constantly evolving. How do you stay updated with industry trends, and how do you integrate them into Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta?
Networking is crucial, and we must always be ready for change. The types of guests and their preferences evolve—what was once common, like long-term hotel stays, has shifted with trends now favouring serviced residences for both short-term and weekend stays. To stay ahead, we need to continually monitor these trends and stay connected with colleagues, whether within our brand or in other serviced residences. Joining networking associations helps us stay updated. While competition exists, I see it more as an opportunity for networking rather than a challenge.
With your extensive experience, what advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to build a career in hospitality management?
Preparing your mental state is crucial in any profession. Regardless of the field, maintaining consistency, persistence, and focus is essential. Work demands commitment and resilience—never giving up quickly and continuously fighting through challenges. A steadfast mentality is key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Maintaining work-life balance can be challenging in your role. How do you unwind after a busy day or week?
During my free time on weekends, I find relaxation and recovery by hanging out at the mall, rather than always opting for mountain or beach trips. Additionally, when the opportunity arises, I enjoy attending music concerts to unwind and enjoy the moment.
What's the future plan for Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta?
We are committed to remaining consistent in our efforts to develop and enhance our services. Our focus is on providing long-term stays and family accommodations while upholding our dedication to safety and sustainability. We strive to balance exceptional service with responsible practices, ensuring a superior experience for all our guests.
