Leading with Heart
Jan Kroeckel’s journey through Southeast Asia has shaped a leadership style grounded in warmth, purpose and innovation. Now at the helm of Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali, he shares how he’s building on the resort’s family-friendly charm and looking ahead to its next chapter.
Q: Take us back to the beginning — how did your journey in the hospitality industry start?
A: My journey began 15 years ago at the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, which was my first Accor property. I joined the pre-opening team as an intern for a year, and I’ve been with Accor ever since, primarily in Southeast Asia.
Q: You’ve been with Accor for over 15 years. What has it been like working with one of the most prestigious hotel groups in the world, and what do you think sets Accor apart from its competitors?
A: It’s been a truly rewarding experience. I’m extremely proud to have built my career with Accor. What sets the company apart is the genuine care they show towards their Heartists and our strong commitment to sustainability across all our hotels.
Q: Congratulations on your new role! Now that you’re leading Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali, what is it about the resort that enticed you the most?
A: What captivated me right away was the warmth and friendliness of the Heartists across all departments. Being welcomed into the Mövenpick family has been wonderful. This resort is truly one of Bali’s finest for families, and I’m excited to collaborate with the team to enhance our facilities, improve guest experiences, and drive both topline and bottom-line results.
Q: What changes have you implemented—or begun to implement—since taking the reins? Are there any major plans or upcoming initiatives you can share with us?
A: Bali is an incredibly competitive environment, so constant innovation is key to providing guests with fresh experiences. We’re developing an unused garden area at the back of the resort into a beautiful outdoor multi-purpose event venue. This space will serve various activities during the day, such as volleyball, archery and yoga, and transform into a dream wedding venue in the evenings. Stay tuned for more updates soon!
Q: There are clearly many beautiful aspects of the resort, but what’s your personal favourite feature?
A: My personal favourite is our three hotel dogs: two Golden Retrievers named Nala and Alpha, and a Labrador named Salt. They are gentle, loving companions and enjoy spending time with the kids at the resort.
Q: If you had to choose a career-defining moment so far, what would it be?
A: That’s a tough question, but I’d say my most defining moment came about 20 years ago when I did a two-month internship at a local hotel in Phuket, Thailand. I fell in love with the work and realised I wanted to pursue a career in hospitality. That moment solidified my desire to live in Southeast Asia, and here I am two decades later.
Q: You’ve been living in Indonesia for more than a decade now. Do you still remember what surprised you the most when you first arrived?
A: What immediately won me over and still does is the warmth and genuine hospitality of the Balinese people and Indonesians in general. I remind myself every day how blessed I am to work in such a beautiful country surrounded by such wonderful people.
Q: Given your credentials and strong track record in hospitality, what’s your take on the current standard of luxury offerings in Bali, based on what you’ve seen so far?
A: With Bali being one of the most sought-after tourist destinations globally, the standard of luxury offerings is impressively high and varied. Whether you’re looking to spend a modest amount or splurge on luxury, Bali truly has something for everyone.
Q: If you weren’t working in the hotel industry, what would be your dream job?
A: I would love to be a dive instructor.
Asia Dreams Volume 56
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali
Jalan Wanagiri, Jimbaran
Bali 80362, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3614725777
E: resort.bali.reservations@movenpick.com
W: movenpick.accor.com
IG: @movenpickbali
