Date of publication: Feb 26, 2018

Ross Cooper

General Manager: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

Date of birth:

Hometown: Wellington

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 5 (as of February 2018)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

I had the good fortune of being posted here in 2008 for the first time. While that period coincided with a global financial crisis, it was a challenging and rewarding time professionally. Personally, it was very rewarding too, as it is where I met my wonderful wife.

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

I have never had a set motto, but I do have beliefs that I hold with me, many of them coming from my parents and upbringing. “Enjoy life” if I had to pick, but this to me is about enjoying life with those around you, both professionally and personally.

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

There have been so many over the 20-plus years and I am truly appreciative of the career I have developed with Hyatt. But it is seeing the career achievements and steps taken by others I have managed that make me proudest.

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

Professionally, I am focusing on how Andaz Tokyo and our team can continue to build on the successes since opening Tokyo’s first luxury lifestyle hotel four-and-a-half years ago, and grow further as we build up to the Olympics in 2020. In life, my goals are all about family.

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

Make the time to explore Japan; no matter how busy you may be. I left here the first time with too many things that I had regretted not seeing or doing as it is very easy to get caught up, and suddenly another year has passed by. Not this time!

Last updated: Feb 26, 2018