Date of publication: Jan 15, 2018

Michael McBain

General Manager: InterContinental Osaka

Date of birth: Dec. 23, 1967

Hometown: Cape Town

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): Less than 1 (as of December 2017)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

When I was invited to Japan in May to meet our corporate team and see the hotel firsthand. I had the pleasure of spending some time in Tokyo and then Osaka, which for a person new to the country was both exciting and overwhelming. It was to say the least, an awesome experience.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

I have had the pleasure of living in a number of countries around the world and I have been taught one lesson in each of them: Treat people the way you wish to be treated back. Based on this simple motto, I have been able to enjoy each experience and have been allowed to have a lot of fun doing what I do.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

This is a difficult and yet great question. Over my career I have achieved a number of personal goals, but the greatest achievement is the lasting friends I have made in each destination. Thanks to social media, we are able to all stay in touch and share our stories — it makes one very humble and proud.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

Japan is a fascinating country and I have been given an enormous task to grow my own property and the team that works there, along with the new properties we will add. With the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the Olympics due in less than two and three years respectively; we all have an enormous amount of work to do before the world watches us — great challenges and opportunities for everyone.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

A truly difficult question, and one that is not easy to answer, but the best advice I can offer is twofold. Be true to yourself and embrace the opportunity presented to you each day. Life is way too short to worry about what you can’t control, so control what you can both personally and professionally. Remember to laugh, it good for the soul.

Last updated: Jan 15, 2018