Date of publication: Nov 20, 2017

Karan Singh

General Manager: Conrad Osaka

Date of birth: May 24, 1979

Hometown: New Delhi

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 5 (as of November 2017)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

My first assignment in Japan was in Nagoya, the heart of Japan. It is not a busy city if you compare it with Bangkok where I relocated from, but Nagoya was pretty sophisticated. I still remember my first experience — and shock — when I took a taxi from Nagoya Airport to Hilton Nagoya, forgetting that taxi fares are not as cheap as in Bangkok.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

Live a balanced life with total accountability at work and at home. This affects the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities that we live in. We are in a people business and it is therefore absolutely important that our people are relaxed and happy, as only then would we be able to spread the light and warmth of hospitality to our guests.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

When I was 21, someone asked me what my goal was. My answer was that I wanted to be a general manager of a hotel at the age of 35. Not sure why I said “by 35” but here I am, slightly delayed, but I did become a GM when I hit 36. I sincerely and humbly appreciate Hilton and my colleagues, managers and teams in supporting me to get here.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

With the recent opening of Conrad Osaka, my goal is to continue strengthening our Conrad brand in Japan, inspiring our customers and team members. My focus remains - to make our hotel THE CHOICE for travellers in Osaka and THE PLACE to work for team members.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

Last updated: Nov 20, 2017