2024 Winner: International Alumnus Award (Griffith Business School)
Master of International Tourism & Hospitality Management, Class of 2005
With a focus on sustainability, collaboration, empathy, and empowerment, Dave is an exciting young leader in the hotel and tourism industry. As CEO, Ovolo Hotels, he leads eight iconic hotels across Hong Kong, Australia and Bali with a purpose-driven mindset.
Congratulations, how did you feel when you found out you won an Alumni Award?
I was absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured. Reflecting on the journey and hard work that led to this recognition was a moment of immense pride and joy. This award acknowledges my professional achievements and reinforces the values and education I received at Griffith University.
I want to express my gratitude to Griffith University for the role it has played in shaping my career and personal growth. The values and education I received there continue to guide and inspire me daily.
Favourite inspirational quote, and why?
One of my favourite inspirational quotes is by Albert Einstein: "I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious."
Can you share a specific initiative or project you're currently working on that excites you?
I am working to enhance our sustainability credentials through our DO GOOD FEEL GOOD initiatives. All Ovolo Hotels are now accredited by Earth Check, and we aim to achieve Gold status for all our hotels by the end of next year. This represents a significant leap from our position two years ago and will place our hotels in a market-leading position within the lifestyle segment. I am particularly excited about this project as it leads us on.
Why are you proud to be a Griffith alumnus?
I am proud to be a Griffith alumnus because the university provided me with an exceptional education and invaluable experiences that have significantly shaped my career and personal growth.
My early education in India provided me with the technical skills to succeed, but it was at Griffith where I learned the basics of management and leadership in a global context. Diverse study groups and an inclusive environment fostered a sense of community and broadened my understanding of different cultures and perspectives. This has been instrumental in my ability to work effectively in a global industry.
Moreover, Griffith's strong network of alumni and industry connections has been a continuous source of support and inspiration throughout my career. Being a Griffith alumnus means being part of a community that values innovation, diversity, and excellence. I am proud to represent these values and contribute to the legacy of an institution that has profoundly impacted my life.
What inspired you to pursue your current career path?
From a young age, I was intrigued by how hospitality brings people together and creates lasting impressions. My career path in hospitality was an obvious choice, and I started hotel school right after high school. Creating memorable experiences and working in a dynamic, people-centred industry has always excited me.
Why did you choose Griffith University?
I was living in Dubai at the time and exploring higher education options in Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism. My aim was to remain focused on my preferred industry, and Griffith's course was ideal for my needs. The Gold Coast as a location made the decision even easier—what better place to study and live? Evidently, it was the right choice, as I'm still here after 20 years.
What does a typical day/week at work look like for you?
No two days are the same in my role, and my schedule varies depending on my location and current priorities. I often travel, which adds another layer of complexity to my typical day or week.
Usually, I start my day around 8 am. I avoid scheduling meetings before 11 am to focus on productive work and tackle pressing tasks. From 11 am to 1 pm, I have recurring meetings to stay up-to-date with various aspects of the business. After lunch, my time is dedicated to project-related tasks and external meetings.
I also prefer to keep Mondays and Fridays flexible to accommodate last-minute needs and ensure I can address any urgent business matters. This flexibility allows me to stay agile and responsive in a dynamic business environment.
How do you spend your downtime?
In my downtime, I enjoy a mix of relaxation, physical activity, and continuous learning, which helps me stay balanced and energised. I spend quality time with my family and friends, who provide a great source of support and joy.
I love running, hiking, practising yoga, and reading books. I also enjoy traveling, not just for work but also for pleasure. Exploring new cultures and destinations rejuvenates me and offers fresh insights that often inspire my work.
Can you share a valuable lesson you learned from a setback or failure in your career?
One of the most valuable lessons I learned from a setback in my career is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Recently, I was involved in a project that didn't conclude as planned. Despite our team's hard work and dedication, unforeseen challenges arose from 12 consecutive interest rate hikes, leading to the project's failure. This experience was initially disheartening, but it taught me several key lessons.
Firstly, setbacks are inevitable, but how we respond to them defines our ability to succeed in the long run. Maintaining a positive attitude and staying resilient in the face of adversity is crucial.
Secondly, adaptability is crucial. The ability to pivot and adjust strategies when things don't go as planned is essential for navigating the dynamic and ever-changing business landscape. This experience helped me develop a more flexible approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
Overall, this setback reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning, which have been invaluable in my career.
What role has mentorship played in your professional development?
Mentorship has been crucial in my professional development, providing guidance, support, and valuable insights. Experienced mentors have helped me navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and develop essential skills. Their advice has been invaluable in identifying growth opportunities and expanding my professional network.
How do you approach leadership in your work and community involvement?
I approach leadership with a focus on collaboration, empathy, and empowerment. In my work and community involvement, I strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. I believe in leading by example, demonstrating integrity, and maintaining open communication.
Best life book recommendation, and why?
One of the best life book recommendations I have is Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda. This book is profoundly inspirational and offers deep insights into spirituality, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of life. Yogananda's journey and teachings emphasise the importance of self-realisation, mindfulness, and the pursuit of inner peace.
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