Billy Bagus
Aug 26, 2025
In the world of hospitality, few leaders embody the perfect blend of heart, vision, and results quite like Richard Tutuko. As the award-winning General Manager of Element by Westin Ubud, Richard has redefined what it means to lead with purpose. His accolades, including being named General Manager of the Year in Asia Pacific, defines his relentless dedication, innovative mindset, and deep respect for community and environment. Dive into this exclusive interview to uncover the leadership philosophies, inspiring innovations, and personal passions that fuel his journey!
With a clear vision to position Element by Westin Ubud as a benchmark for sustainable and guest-centric hospitality in Asia, Richard continues to set new standards of excellence.
Congratulations on being named General Manager of the Year in Asia Pacific! What does this recognition mean to you personally, and how do you feel it reflects the journey of Element by Westin Bali Ubud under your leadership?
Thank you for your kind words! This recognition is simply humbling. Personally, it is a reminder that leadership is not about titles, but also about the impact we make on people, our associates, our guests, and our community. For Element by Western Bali Ubud, it reflects the resilience and passion of a team that has embraced challenges,redefined guest experience, and also continuously pushed boundaries. For me, this journey is about collective achievement, and I'm proud to see our story resonate on such a stage.
Element by Westin Bali Ubud has achieved outstanding results under your direction — from a 26.2% financial increase to record-breaking guest satisfaction scores. What strategies or philosophies do you believe were the biggest drivers behind this success?
The success stems from a simple but powerful philosophy: Balance. We balance financial performance with genuine guest care, operational excellence with creativity, and short-term wins with long-term sustainability. Transparency, agility, and empowerment are the key. And when associates feel trusted and inspired, results will naturally follow.
“I believe in living with empathy, celebrating individuality, and also creating a safe space for voices to be heard.”
Sustainability has clearly been a cornerstone of your leadership, with the hotel certified as a Sustainability Hotel for three consecutive years. What does sustainability mean to you in the context of hospitality, and how do you ensure it’s not just a checklist but a lived culture at the property?
For me personally, sustainability is not a project. It's a mindset. It's about respecting the environment, honoring the local community, and ensuring that what we do today preserves opportunities for tomorrow. At Element by Western Bali Ubud, sustainability is woven into daily habits, reducing waste, supporting local farmers, embracing green design, and engaging associates to champion initiative. This way, it is not about mandate, but it's a culture that everyone owns.
The numbers are impressive, but your leadership has also been praised for cultivating an inclusive and empowering workplace culture, with a 99% Associate Engagement Survey score. How do you approach motivating your team and creating an environment where they feel truly valued?
Motivation comes from belonging. I believe in living with empathy, celebrating individuality, and also creating a safe space for voices to be heard. When associates know their ideas matter and their well-being is a priority, they give the best. Recognitions, open communications, and opportunities for growth are the foundation for our culture.
“My advice is simple: Be curious, be courageous, and stay true to your values.”
Innovation has been highlighted as one of your hallmarks — from guest-centric initiatives to reimagining public spaces. Could you share one or two of the most exciting innovations you’ve introduced, and how guests have responded?
Our initiative was to introduce our courtyard, the plaza, and we used the space turning evenings into memorable community-style gatherings with live music and local flavors. Another one was remaking our rooftop into an elevator, a vibrant space that combines wellness, entertainment, and sustainability. Both have been enthusiastically embraced by guests, proving that innovation, when rooted in authenticity, really elevates experience.
Beyond your role as a leader, what inspires you personally? Do you have hobbies, passions, or rituals that help you stay grounded and creative in such a demanding industry?
Travel has always inspired me. Exploring new cultures, food, and landscapes keeps my perspective fresh. I'm also passionate about photography and music, which allow me to tell stories beyond words. Most importantly, spending time with friends and associates grounds me. They remind me of the why behind everything that I do.
“Innovation, when rooted in authenticity, really elevates experience.”
Indonesia’s influence in the global hospitality scene is rising, and you’ve become a role model for many. What advice would you give to young hospitality professionals who aspire to lead at the same level?
My advice is simple: Be curious, be courageous, and stay true to your values. The industry will always evolve, but the integrity and passion are timeless. Learn from every role, value people, offer processes, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Leadership is less about position and more about the positive change you bring. And the last thing, always have fun in everything that you do, because when working is fun, excellence is easy.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself and the Element brand in the next five years? Are there new goals or visions you’re particularly excited to pursue?
I envision Element by Western Bali Ubud continuing to be a benchmark for sustainable and innovative hospitality in Asia. Personally, I hope to keep growing as a leader who inspires transformations, not just in the hotels, but in the communities we serve. The next five years will be about deepening our impact, stronger sustainability practices, and even more personalized guest experience, and also cultivating the next generations of leaders.
