Meet Andrey Simorangkir, spa and gallery manager at Banyan Tree Ungasan (Bali), who was once named the Platinum Spa Leader of the Year by Banyan Tree Spas.
American Spa: How many years have you been involved in the spa and hospitality industry?
Andrey Simorangkir: I started in the hospitality industry in 2004. 2019 marks my 15th year in the industry, including six years in the spa sector.
AS: What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
Andrey Simorangkir: I started in the food and beverage department at Banyan Tree Bintan, where I learned the ropes about the service industry. After that, I moved to the Seychelles as part of the opening team for Banyan Tree Spa Seychelles. Working within the organization, I was provided with many development opportunities. When I was presented with the chance to take on a new role in the retail arm of Banyan Tree Gallery, I saw it as an excellent opportunity for career growth and agreed with no hesitation. In my new role, I moved back to Bintan for training before I was deployed to the Maldives. Through the patient coaching from my mentor and support from the team, I was eventually promoted to oversee the operations for Banyan Tree Spa & Gallery Ungasan. In my role as spa and gallery manager, I am learning valuable lessons everyday and it is exciting to be meeting and interacting with guests from various parts of the world.
AS: What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of working in the spa industry?
Andrey Simorangkir: As we become busier in our daily lives, we tend to lose focus of the importance of getting proper relaxation in order to perform better in all other aspects of our lives. In my role, I get to speak with many guests who walk through the doors of our spa. It is particularly rewarding to see a guest understand the importance of being healthy in order to enhance their overall productivity.
AS: What is your proudest accomplishment?
Andrey Simorangkir: In 2013, I received the award, Spa Leader of the Year – Platinum Category by Banyan Tree Spas. This was in recognition of the high revenue and gross operating profit that we had achieved for the year, as Banyan Tree Spa Ungasan achieved stellar results in terms of revenue and guest feedback.
AS: What has surprised you most about the spa world?
Andrey Simorangkir: As society develops and we become more dependent on technology, it still amazes me that when guests visit the spa, it’s still the time-honored treatments and traditions that they are after. Thanks to human touch adjustments can be made immediately to ensure that the guest’s problem areas are targeted, something technology cannot always do. There is also a long withstanding tradition in Banyan Tree Spa where we celebrate the human touch and do not use machines for our treatments.
AS: Where do you think the industry is heading?
Andrey Simorangkir: Many people are time poor these days and they need something that provides quick results. As the spa industry develops, we might see the popularity of dynamic and shorter treatments increase. That being said, the reliance of natural herbs and spices and traditional methods will still remain the same.
AS: What is your go-to spa treatment?
Andrey Simorangkir: I always choose a full body massage as that helps with my overall relaxation.
AS: If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would it be?
Andrey Simorangkir: My aspiration since a young age has always to be a professional soccer player as I really enjoy the sport. If I have the time after work, I will gather some friends for a friendly game. It helps me to maintain my fitness and also stretch my muscles after a day at work.
AS: What are two things we don’t know about you?
Andrey Simorangkir: In my free time, I enjoy cleaning. I feel that the process is therapeutic and the end result is always satisfying. Another thing that not many people know about me is that I am fearful of watching horror movies!
AS: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Andrey Simorangkir: Focus on your goals, believe in yourself, and have patience on your journey.
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