To Hotel or to AirBnB? That’s the question— Lunch with David Udell, Asia Pacific Group President of Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Sometimes the most meaningful and inspiring conversations happen over casual meals. The Time Auction Blog is a snippet of our meetings with people who have found passion in their life and career, where we get a glimpse into their mentality behind their ventures.

The hospitality industry has changed immensely over the past decade, especially with the likes of AirBnb and other competitors rising in recent years. As anyone can imagine, managing a hotel chain in such an environment is no easy job, but it’s one that David Udell has chosen to take on.

As Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s Asia Pacific Group President, David leads a culturally diverse group of 26,000 colleagues in over 90 hotels with a mission to build customer preference and expand the company’s growing brand presence in the region.

Over lunch, he talked about his thoughts on the changing hotel industry and its implications. David also shared, from the perspective of a long-time expatriate, how he managed relationships, especially ones with his family.

What’s your life philosophy?

There’s a golden rule that resonates with me everyday.

Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you.

I believe that it is very critical. Before you do something to others, think about how you would feel if they did that to you. This rule has helped me throughout life and career. You meet the same people on your way up during your career and on your way down.

I have twin 5 year-old daughters, so theoretically, I’ll have to work till I am 106. So there’s always a chance that someday you will be the one to hire me. And that’s exactly why the golden rule is important, you never know who would be important to you in the future.

Is there a habit that significantly improved your life?

Care for your family and loved ones and checking with them constantly.That way you can keep yourself steady even as you head into uncharted waters.It doesn’t matter what you do in your professional life.They will be there to help you and tell you what you are doing right or wrong and give you support. And just as they are dedicated to you,

You should be dedicated to your loved ones too.

What is something that you want everyone here to takeaway today?

Be empathetic and open-minded. Be open to different ways to do things and try and put yourself in the shoes of others, be a good listener. God gave you two ears and one month, talking and listening should also be in the same proportion. Being able to do that would take to to great lengths, and allow you to be a great team player.

Another thing is to be humble. While there are some cultures which tell you to be full of yourself and be in others’ faces, I don’t think it’s the right thing to do. Be humble and be a good team player.

If you are good, you don’t need to say it, others will see it.

Thank you David for donating lunch and raising 138 volunteer hours to Habitat for Humanity Hong Kong, Opportunity Festival and more!

Big thanks to William Ching from Kachick for the awesome photos!

For more amazing opportunities, visit Time Auction to volunteer and meet inspiring mentors!