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Hotel Corner
Meet Richard Simmons, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, TST
International hotelier Richard Simmons was born into the industry and has been travelling his whole life. He returned to Hong Kong at the beginning of 2015, taking the helm at Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui.
I was born into hospitality as my father worked in the industry for most his career. When I was young, I had the opportunity to travel, to stay in hotels and to meet people whom even today I am still in touch.
Hong Kong is my birthplace and I studied in Australia. I then worked at Hyatt properties in Sydney and Melbourne, obtaining valuable skills for developing a successful career.
Moving from Australia to Dubai on a management-training programme was a golden opportunity for broadening my horizons. It was an integral moment in my career.
The cityscape may have changed a lot since my first stint in Hong Kong in 1993, at the original Hyatt Regency Hotel on Nathan Road, but the city still has the same level of excitement and adventure that has made it so famous.
Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui has set up a modern and dynamic version of hospitality. The hotel is situated in ground breaking mixed-used complex that includes the K11 Art Mall, a first in Hong Kong that brings together art, people and nature. Our guests can enjoy exclusive and convenient shopping experiences whilst also having easy access the MTR located just underneath the complex.
Giving guests a memorable experience is what drives people to our industry. We are dedicated to listening to our guests’ and to understand what they seek and how we can.
My advice to those starting their careers is to take calculated risks; embrace challenges and certainly don’t be afraid to do something different. The opportunity to travel and work in different places is not only a great way to build career, it gives a wonderful chance to learn about yourself.
As a good leader, I encourage decision-making across the hotel, we have a trusted and experienced team on all levels. Taking responsibility, whilst always being supported, allows tremendous growth in people. Effective communication and collaborating to seek solutions, improvements and ideas, are fundamentals of good leadership.
My favourite thing about Hong Kong is the balance of the beautiful, natural wonders that surround a super exciting city. The outlying islands, nature parks, sandy beaches and undulating mountain paths are never far from town. It is good to take a break from the hustle and bustle to explore.
I recommend tourists enjoy a ferry ride through Victoria Harbour when the sun is going down and the city lights are flickering on. Take a trip to one of the outlying islands and plan the return at sunset — the surrounding scenery is fabulous!
