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Lucia Liu is making history 4,000 kilometers away from home as the first Chinese woman to become a hotel manager in Bali, Indonesia.
But for this Beijing lady, it was pure serendipity that allowed her to marry her personal interests with her dedication to the hospitality industry she loves.
"I was told by the management team at the Starwood Greater China Region that the hotel manager position at The St. Regis Bali was available.
"I am passionate about traveling and adventure, and the beauty of this industry is that it gives you opportunities to follow that passion.
"Before moving to Bali, I had spent some time at the resort and visited with key management. Before I knew it, I was on my way to Nusa Dua, starting my new adventures in July 2012."
Transitioning from her senior management positions in Beijing to her new appointment in Bali was a great leap forward, but there were certain hurdles.
"At the beginning, I discovered that one challenge in working together with the local team was the different approach in communication. During my previous experience in Beijing, I used to go straight to the point and expected a quick response.
"Here in Bali, I have to be flexible, using a different approach to ensure team members fully understand what I want. Sometimes, I realize that simple answers are best.
"In Bali, you are surrounded by a strong cultural environment. Although this is not a challenge in itself, it has taught me to be more respectful of the local culture.
"The Balinese are very gracious and hospitable. When you show interest in learning the culture and spend time at local events or ceremonies with team members, they truly embrace you and treat you as part of their family.
"This has helped me understand local social values and beliefs, and to understand how my local team members think."
The St. Regis Bali is an elite resort that caters to some very high-end guests who expect nothing less than the best. For Liu, the managerial strategies are simple.
"We have to be passionate about what we are doing. I lead by example, and I believe what you are doing today is investing in the future. Team members must be given a chance to grow, and you need to take risks in order to encourage your team to grow and exploit their potential.
"What makes The St. Regis Bali special are the people.
"Bali is very competitive, and without a high level of personalized service, we will not succeed. No matter how great your product is, at the end of the day, guests always remember the way they felt when they are in a special place.
"The St. Regis brand has always been synonymous with bespoke service and legendary experiences. Our guests recognize the exclusive location and exquisite accommodation, but it is always the people that transform every stay into an experience beyond expectation.
"Our service has always earned consistently positive feedback from guests, and we have received a number of awards, including the prestigious Conde Nast Gold List this year."
As a female manager in a world that's still largely male, Liu has a few words to offer ambitious young girls who want to make hospitality their chosen career.
"The hospitality industry is basically a people industry. If you are young and ambitious, you have to be passionate about the industry first, about people. You have to choose the right company to work with.
"As a manager and a leader, you have to be very strong and take full responsibility. You need to be fair and understanding, but do not allow emotions get in the way.
"Today's leaders need to innovate, lead the team with passion and encourage them to deliver the brand promise."
paulined@chinadaily.com.cn
