Room at his inn

With over three decades in the hospitality business–primarily in Asia–hotelier Mark Heywood says: “I’m now having an easy life.”

But his eyes twinkle as he says that, and your Boardroom Watch interviewer knows immediately that the General Manager of New World Manila Bay Hotel is just teasing. In fact, there’s a US$20 million refurbishment project ahead of him, which will see the Malate landmark receive a much-needed and urgent touch up, from driveway to lobby and throughout its guestrooms and dining outlets. There’s also the need to match, if not surpass, customers’ expectations of providing (free) WiFi in stylish accommodation with all the basics such as a firm but comfy bed, adequate lighting and an ergonomic desk chair as well as quick check in.