Where are you from originally?
I’m originally a native of Bangkok but I moved here two years ago for work. At the moment, I don’t really know how long I’ll stay here.

Would you tell us about your educational background?
I graduated from the Faculty of Communication Arts at Chulalongkorn University with a bachelor’s degree. I then went on to the Golden Gate University, San Francisco to study for an MBA (Master of Business Administration). That was in 1994. After graduation I started working in the cosmetic industry and then moved on to the retail business.

Could you outline to us briefly your main job responsibilities?
I’m responsible for all marketing management for Central Festival Phuket. This includes marketing, promotions, events, advertising, public relations and tourist marketing. Central is one of several organisations, which together comprise the Central Group.

This business is divided into five groups of business operations.

You’re obviously a very successful businessman. What’s your advice to new aspirants?
Try to find out what you’re good at and then concentrate on making the most of it. Look on everything that happens as an opportunity, then keep on friendly terms with your colleagues and you’ll enjoy work.

Tell us your approach to managing your subordinates.
I apply what I define as ‘the Four Immeasurables’ or ‘the Four Sublime Attitudes’ – loving kindness or benevolence, compassion, sympathetic joy and equanimity. These principles create a serene working environment and positive mental attitudes.

What do you like most and least about your job?
What I like most is my team; they’re so nice and really support me. Also, my boss always listens to me and then gives me freedom to exercise my judgement. What I like least is being away from my friends and family in Bangkok. But anyway, I can handle it...

What is your life motto? I don’t think I’ve a life motto as such. I approach the challenges of life according to the classic philosophical discipline of cause and result, the truth of Dharma. The philosophy of Buddhism informs us of the rule of conscience and gives a moral authority that defines good and bad.

Do you have a future goal in your life? I used to, but now I just let everything take its course. Just be happy in what you’re doing and take one day at a time. If you set unrealistic goals and fail to achieve them, you’ll just be unhappy.

Do you have an idol?
I greatly admired Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a person whose life was at the centre of her times. She was the American first lady from 1961 to 1963, and was greatly admired for her style and elegance. Her second husband, Aristotle Onassis, was one of the wealthiest men in the world.

Another icon is Diana, Princess of Wales because her life was so colourful and stylish.

Could you tell us about your private life?
I’m the second born of five sons. I live in an apartment, which is located close to Central – convenient for my work.

What is your favourite activity during your free time?
I love to try new restaurants for both foreign and Thai food and generally just to enjoy life!

How much time do you usually spend on sports in a typical week?
Oops.... Your question makes me realize that I need to balance my life with more sports and fitness activities.

How would you rate the quality of your life?
Here in Central Festival Phuket? 9.5 out of 10. A very good life indeed.

How is Phuket in your view?
Twenty years ago Phuket had an unspoiled nature and this is what it offered to all visitors, but now Phuket has become more of a place for business. Real estate prices have escalated – excessively so, in my humble opinion.

What is the difference between Bangkok and Phuket?
I often read in Shop WINDOW and other local publications that the traffic in Phuket is terrible. If you want to experience real traffic jams then go to Bangkok. Generally speaking, everywhere in Phuket is within easy reach and you can get there quickly by car.

There’s still something of a rural feel to the island and without wishing to be critical, this reflects in people’s approach to life and work. In Bangkok on the other hand, competition for living resources is intense, and this attitude carries over into the working environment. In the end, though, it’s for each person to choose his or her lifestyle.

For more information contact:
Central Festival Phuket
Tel: +66 (0)76 291111, +66 (0)76 291000
Website: www.centralfestivalphuket.com