Nannucci has been living in Malaysia for almost eight years (All photos: Traders Hotel KL)
Thirteen years is quite a milestone anniversary. What qualities do you think Traders has that has contributed to its longevity?
Since 2006, Traders Hotel has set the benchmark for new-generation hotels: modern, trendy and vibrant. Our people have helmed its success with an approach that is far from the traditional conservatism that the hospitality industry is known for. The support that Petronas invested throughout these years has been fantastic and we are very grateful to them, despite the business challenges in Kuala Lumpur. We have always received adequate resources to run the business at the highest level. Of course, the location plays a very important part, but that alone is not enough to remain at the top, and we are very proud of that.
We also must not forget Skybar, which is an iconic rooftop entertainment venue that has been, and still is today, the celebration spot for partygoers in KL.
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What sets Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur apart from its competitors?
We respect the competition and we are happy that the KL scene has welcomed more than eight new hotels in the past year. Competition is healthy as you must always strive to remain at the front of the daily news. We are proud of our consistent results, and we monitor the performance of our neighbours and learn from each other.
What are some of your short and long-term goals in your role?
Short-term goals are more of how we can meet the financial results based on the latest business trends in KL. We strategise with the team on what can work short-term, what is coming up and what the consumers are looking to do in the next few days. Structurally, there is not much you can do short term, but you can always engage the stakeholders on changes that can be done overnight to realign the business model with the market demand.
Long-term goals are the rejuvenation project of the hotel. How will the business transform in the next 10 years and how we can design the hotel business model to deliver highly profitable results while providing guests with an exceptional experience. We look at how innovation and technology can change the way we travel and our hotel stay. An investment has to be sustainable and upgradable.
What has been the most significant moment in your career?
The opportunity to visit different countries and see different cultures. Malaysia, of course, has been the pinnacle [of culture] with [my experience of living] almost eight years in total in this wonderful country.
What do you like most about Traders Hotel?
The people.
What is your favourite aspect of the job?
That everyday is different.
What do you look for in a hotel when you are travelling?
Comfort, cleanliness, security and location.
What are some of your favourite ways to unwind after work?
Socialising.
This article first appeared on Aug 26, 2019 in The Edge Malaysia.
