Leading Beyond Borders
As Mamaka Hotels & Resorts casts a wider net across Southeast Asia, Joel Bartlett reflects on nearly a decade in Bali, the evolution of his leadership, and the vision behind a lifestyle brand built around connection, freedom, and meaningful experiences.
Q: After almost a decade in Bali, how has your leadership perspective evolved?
A: Over the past decade, my leadership journey has grown in step with Bali’s ever-changing hospitality scene. Facing challenges like the pandemic and global economic shifts, I’ve learned to adapt quickly and embrace fresh perspectives. Above all, I’ve discovered the power of listening, trusting my team, and welcoming new ideas. This approach has helped me keep the Mamaka brand thriving in Indonesia.
Q: What has been the biggest difference between your role as general manager of one property and your current regional position?
A: I was honoured to serve as Mamaka’s first general manager, guiding the launch of our very first property. Building the hotel from scratch brought a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Now, as we expand the brand into new countries like Thailand with our Phuket project, my role has grown wider. The pressure is greater, but watching our team’s dedication open new doors for the group is incredibly rewarding.
Q: How has your new role changed your approach to leadership?
A: I’ve stepped into this role with curiosity and a clear sense of purpose, knowing how vital it is to carry the Mamaka spirit from Bali into Thailand and beyond. This shift means I now place even more trust in my managers, empowering them to lead daily operations while I focus on shaping new properties, timelines, and teams across borders. I’ve transitioned from hands-on daily involvement to a more strategic role.
Q: What makes Mamaka Hotels & Resorts resonate with today’s travellers?
A: Mamaka means to live selfishly, a philosophy that truly resonates with today’s traveller. Mamaka loosens the rules of traditional, formal luxury, responding to a craving for unique adventures and lifestyle-focused hotels. Guests are free to be themselves, enjoy the space, and shape their own experience. From wellness and fitness to cocktails by the pool at Kuta Social Club, we offer something for every kind of traveller. This spirit of connection is at the heart of the Mamaka experience.
Q: What do you see as Bali’s biggest hospitality opportunities today?
A: Bali’s hospitality scene is evolving at lightning speed. Exceptional restaurants are popping up and world-class chefs are infusing fresh energy into the island’s culinary world. This momentum will keep drawing travellers from across the globe, not just to Bali, but to Indonesia’s other gems like Lombok, Flores, and Sumba. I see enormous potential for tourism and hospitality here.
Q: How do you see Bali evolving as a destination, particularly with the growth of tourism across Southeast Asia?
A: I’m confident Bali will keep blossoming with fresh restaurants, innovative hospitality concepts, and new developments springing up all over the island. Growth brings change, but it also unlocks opportunities for everyone. As Bali transforms, I believe businesses ready to adapt and evolve with the island will find exciting opportunities ahead.
Q: What opportunities does Mamaka Hotels & Resorts’ regional expansion create?
A: The possibilities are vast. I truly believe the Mamaka brand can thrive across Southeast Asia and in many destinations throughout Indonesia. We’re already exploring ways to grow beyond Bali and Indonesia, and our project in Thailand marks an exciting first leap. It’s a chance to grow with the brand, open new doors for our teams, and share the Mamaka experience with fresh audiences.
Q: What excites you most about Mamaka Hotels & Resorts’ next chapter in Southeast Asia?
A: What excites me most is bringing a brand we’ve carefully built over five years to a much broader Southeast Asian audience. We’ve poured our energy into making Mamaka a place for people and communities to connect, have fun, and discover something new. Watching families and communities enjoy our spaces, hearing their positive feedback, fills me with pride.
Q: Which areas in Southeast Asia are you most excited about in terms of hospitality and tourism development?
A: While Indonesia will always be the heart of Mamaka, we’re exploring opportunities in Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, and several locations throughout Thailand.
Q: What gives you the greatest sense of fulfilment as a hospitality leader?
A: For me, the greatest joy comes from watching people and communities grow alongside the brand. At its core, hospitality is about people. Watching guests delight in their stay, seeing our teams flourish, and witnessing the community embrace our vision fills me with immense pride.
Asia Dreams Volume 60
Mamaka Hotels & Resorts
Jalan Pantai Kuta, Legian
Bali 80361, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3618496500
E: reservations.bali@ovolohotels.com
W: ovolohotels.com
IG: @mamakabali
