Front-office manager SriShankar Kathirveil suits the mould of a seasoned hospitality man to a T. One is struck by how quickly the affable Penang native puts people at ease, with a ready smile and a hearty handshake. Indeed, this interview felt more like a catch-up between old friends than a question-and-answer session for work purposes.
Not just because his bread-and-butter is being the welcoming face of ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Kathirveil exhibits a genuine human touch, honed by a love of hospitality.
Before joining ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove in June 2019, Kathirveil cut his teeth at hotels such as the Marriot, Pan Pacific and Fairmont, plying his trade in housekeeping operations and guest relations. It seems his current workplace is a natural fit for the Arsenal fan, as the family-friendly vibes of the Club suit his naturally warm nature perfectly.
It also appears Kathirveil has found his calling at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, as its nautical setting stirs lifelong emotions forged in his younger years. We dive into the psyche of the man behind the smile.
Why did you move from a career in hotels to ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove?
I love the sea! My father was a navy officer. We used to live on Lumut base in Perak, and I would be fascinated with all these huge ships around the base. I also attended swimming and diving classes during my time there. I’ve always loved everything to do with the ocean and marine life. When I came to ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove for my interview, I was amazed seeing all the yachts here, and how beautiful and open the space was. I was so excited! It was a definite pull factor for me.
What are your job responsibilities?
As the front office is where guests first come into contact with the hotel and staff, my responsibility is to ensure that my team runs it smoothly and efficiently. I train and manage the front-office staff, arrange the roster, and make sure the front desk provides professional and friendly service to our Members. I also address feedback and check that outstanding issues have been resolved.
What do you love about your role?
The satisfaction of our Members and guests is everything to me. Seeing them smile spurs me and my team on to do more. Going to bed every night knowing my team and I have achieved something that day is the best thing we can carry forward to the next day. It isn’t always smooth sailing, and sometimes there are difficult situations. Still, there is a solution to every problem, and we think about how we can keep it from happening again. To quote Steve Jobs: “Sometimes, life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith.”
What other challenges do you face in your job?
So far, the only real challenge I’ve faced is the fact that we only have 26 rooms to sell! I wish we had more to cater to our Members and guests.
How is working at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove different from working anywhere else?
This place is just so family-oriented and warm, and the people here are genuinely kind. It only took me two months to get to know everyone. It just motivates you to come to work daily so you can see your colleagues again. It’s like I have a family away from my family.
How do you bust work stress?
At the end of every day, I write down all the good things that happened and what I accomplished during the day. This is one way I take note of the positive elements in life, and also learn how I can build upon them the next day. It’s therapeutic.
What is your favourite spot at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, and why?
The Rooftop Terrace. Standing there, I can see the entire marina and how beautiful it looks. I take a 10-minute breather there during my free time. The view and feelings it evokes are just amazing.
Please describe yourself in three words.
Positive. Self-disciplined. Sociable.
