What’s it like to…….Work at Six Senses Hotel in Vietnam….and now……Viceroy Bali….
I first met Patrick at The Jumeriah Carlton Tower…
……where I was hired to photograph a new cocktail launch. Honestly, I don’t have the clearest memory of that day as Patrick kept encouraging my assistant and I to sample the drinks!
Patrick subsequently hired me for The Wellesley Knightsbridge Hotel, when he was working there a year or so later, for a Christmas shoot, and we got on so well, that it was natural to keep in touch. I regularly see his posts about his incredible travels and work life and send green emojis. He knows EXACTLY how I feel!
I am very grateful to Patrick as he is one of the few clients that has really made an effort to introduce me to new clients and, to date, as well as going on to shoot several more times for The Wellesley, and their sister hotel, The Langley, thanks to his recommendations, I’ve also worked with a large media firm and another 5 star hotel in London. Cheers Patrick!
I have followed Patrick’s career path as he jet-settled across the globe since I met him and ended up working in The Far East, first Bali then Vietnam, and now, back to Bali again. (Since I first interviewed Patrick for this blog, over a year ago, he has since returned to Bali, this time as General Manager – more on that later….).
We conducted this interview via Zoom and I also took updated photos via my mobile phone. As always, when I caught up with Patrick, he was bubbly and positive and very aware – and humble – of just how enviable his current life style is.
Above is Patrick in Vietnam and here’s a lovely shot taken this month in his current work place, in Bali.
Your Name: Patrick Farrell
Place of work: (Was – first interview in 2023 – Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam) – Viceroy Bali, Ubud.
Your Job Title: (Was – Director of Sales & Marketing) – General Manager
Overview of what your role entails:
Overseeing the entire operation of the resort – two restaurants, one spa and 40 villas. One restaurant is a fine dining spot, with Michelin-level quality – we’re hoping for a star in the future – but Michelin hasn’t made it to Bali, yet. We’ve got some incredibly talented staff, many of whom have been here since the beginning almost 20 years ago. That longevity makes a huge difference to the guest experience.
A typical day might be….Today I had a call with the owner at 8.30am, followed by an S.E.O meeting about three of our websites. I then interviewed a candidate for one of our fine dining restaurant’s waiter positions and oversaw their trial shift. I practised the piano – whilst I was there, which I love to do. Then I spent some time editing the guest directory – it’s a big job making sure everything is correct and up-to-date with all the right information.
Later I reviewed some purchase requisitions from various departments – things like new tires for cars, extra batteries, and so on. I also enjoyed chatting with guests, just general conversation to make them feel welcome. Right now I am having dinner, a tofu garlic stir fry wok, at one of restaurants, and talking to you!
Why should I be a customer of your hotel – what makes the place so special?
The peace and serenity overlooking the jungle ravine is one of the highlights here. We’ve leased the land across the valley, so no one can buy it, keeping the view protected and tranquil. It’s all palm trees, and sometimes you can spot monkeys jumping in the jungle – though luckily there’s a river between us, so no close encounters!
Viceroy Bali is a family owned hotel, with a warm welcoming atmosphere. Margaret, the founder, is still very involved, in a good way. She’s an incredible character who, over the years, has managed to keep the hotel independent and full of character, even while competing with big brands.
Margaret’s daughter, Amanda, was the General Manager, but has returned to Australia to focus on her new family and passed the role to me. She’s still part of the directorate though. About 90-95% of staff are Indonesian, with just 5 expats working here. Most of the team come from the surrounding villages, which is great for local employment and authenticity for our guests.
Aside from the stunning location, the experiences we offer are really special, from local excursions to the rice paddies to cleansing rituals at local temples.
How long have you been doing what you do:
I began my hotelier career upon graduating from Shannon College of Hotel Management and The University of Galway in Ireland, in 2011.
Since graduating, I have been fortunate to work in a variety of luxury hotels and resorts around the world. From Belgium, Dubai, London, Maldives to Bali, then Six Senses in Vietnam and now back to Bali.
What makes you a good fit for your role?
Being flexible and open to change, alongside a positive outlook on life – not just work – helps me blend well into hotelier life.
In this industry we interact with people 24/7. These people come from all walks of life, which makes my career super interesting.
I am also an early riser and proud member of ‘The 5am Club’ which I believe also helps set me up for the day in dealing with others.
These photos below are a collection from Patrick’s own phone camera – taken on his 5am jog – when most of us are in the land of nod! These pics almost convince me, a long time Night Owl, that getting up at dawn could be a could idea…..Hmm…
What perks (if any) are there to your work (I,e, always getting to try new dishes, discounted holidays etc)
Top of the list of perks must be the access to beautiful and exclusive places around the world. Hoteliers tend to ‘take care’ of each other, so when travelling I often look to connect with my counterparts, who can ‘show off’ their places of work.
Here in Bali, all of my meals are included and a house given to me, which has a swimming pool – I know I am so lucky to have this.
Can you recall a particularly exciting day or period of your recent work history?
In 2022 I was working with a VIP guest, who insisted taking me on a helicopter ride around the lush green jungles of Ubud, Bali. That very same person came back to stay with us just recently so it’s been so great to stay in touch.
And, if you’re feeling brave, do you have any particularly embarrassing or funny stories to tell?
I have something but not necessarily related to guests! I once worked with a beautiful hotel (won’t say where or when) but it was a city hotel and well regarded. The funny thing was that the two most senior members of the team did not talk to each other. It sometimes made planning certain things difficult as we had to tread very carefully on how to manage both. They were both very good at their respective jobs however they could not work / speak / sit together. Quite a peculiar situation!! But the hotel still stands and is doing very well.
Did you always want to work in this industry?
It was my mother who originally suggested it, as there was a hotel opening in our neighbourhood. I was at a young age then and liked the idea of the hospitality business back then – the idea of welcoming people to enjoy good times is something that keeps me motivated to work in this industry.
What are the best things about working in Hospitality?
Being in an industry that aims to WOW people, making an impact on how they live their lives.
Dealing with a wide variety of people from all over the world.
Visiting unique and exclusive destinations through hotels and resorts.
Making friends and connections.
Having the opportunity to work and live globally.
And the worst?
I believe finding time to completely ‘switch off’ is less possible than with other industries – although not impossible!
Covid turned hospitality upside down. We are now back in biz – with many challenges still – strikes, cost of living & staff shortages. What are you most grateful for, coming back from lockdowns?
I am most grateful for the opportunities that have been presented because of the pandemic. For example, the emphasis society as a whole is placing on wellness and mental health, helps our industry thrive, whilst improving people’s way of living.
And what do you think we can do/need to do, regarding any challenges the industry now faces?
I think the demand we see – globally – for the hospitality industry is a key indicator of how important the industry is. So, I would like to see more emphasis put on highlighting the career opportunities the younger generation can enjoy and reap from joining the industry. With that comes a healthy circular economy of suppliers / buyers / customers / communities.
Is there anyone (or several) who you’d like to thank for really helping you along your career journey, or perhaps mentors or someone who’s supported and/or inspired you.
My mother springs to mind as she was the one who encouraged me to take my first job in my local area at the Claregalway Hotel, of which the General Manager/owner Paul Gill was supportive of my growth. My father backed me by helping me financially when I was starting out, which meant a lot as it showed he believed in me and gave me the confidence to pursue this career.
In Dubai I took great inspiration from marketing leader Ross McAuley and Jumeriah’s CEO at the time, Gerald Lawless.
In London I worked with all-female leaders whom I learned a lot from in different ways. These included Megan McIntyre, Katherine Gordon, Marion Ryan and Jo Stevenson. Last, but not least, is the person who encouraged me to make the move to Asia in 2020, Amanda Syrowatka, the GM / owner of Viceroy Bali.
Aside from family and work associates, my fiancé Leo has been by my side for a big part of my career to now, particularly when developing in London and then transitioning to Asia, without whom I’m not sure how I would have done so!
Do you have another favourite venue/hotel/restaurant in London (or UK)?
In the UK I hold a very sweet spot for Thyme in the Cotswolds.
What’s your best advice/instruction for anyone considering doing what you do?
I like to recommend anyone starting out in the hospitality industry to really understand the ‘ropes’. Try working in all aspects of the business from back of house to front of house. Connect with people in a natural and meaningful way and remember to be kind, as the industry is very small in its own way, you are bound to bump into people at various points of their, and your, careers.
Where’s a great place/s to take a visitor in London?
I was a West Londoner for all of my time in the Capital, so I am slightly biased but I really love the idea of walking through the parks of Kensington Gardens into Hyde Park, across to Green Park, St. James followed by crossing the bridge to Southbank to finish my stroll by the water.
What travel destination is on your bucket list?
City wise I am keen to explore Taipei, Seoul (which I’m going to soon) and Tel Aviv (which is sadly on hold for now). Bhutan is top of my list as a country.
What’s your ideal Sunday?
Wake up at 5am, complete my morning routine of stretching, journalling, meditating. Head for a run along the rice paddies, stretch, enjoy breakfast somewhere outside the resort and have a massage a couple of hours later. Then into the evening, practice my music, (Patrick is also a DJ in his spare time) or meet with friends…
Contact Info
Last Place of Work – First interview – Six Senses Resort – Vietnam
Current Place of Work – Viceroy Bali, Ubud