Leadership is not Defined by Gender, but by Heart, Consistency, and the Courage to Step Up Despite the Challenges
Strategically located in West Jakarta, HARRIS Suites Puri Mansion offers optimal comfort for both business travelers and families. It provides easy access to the Soekarno Hatta International Airport and various favorite destinations in the capital city. At the helm is Eva Rosdiana who, as General Manager, shares insightful perspectives from her professional journey in the dynamic hospitality industry.
♦ What inspired you to be a hotelier? Please share your journey to becoming a female leader at the top in this industry.
My journey in hospitality began in 2007 as a Sales Coordinator at Hotel Grand Flora Kemang. At that time, I never imagined that one day I would sit in the General Manager’s chair. One step at a time, my career path has grown from Sales Executive to Sales Manager to Director of Sales & Marketing, and eventually entrusted as Acting GM in 2017. Every role has shaped me into the person I’ve become.
What has inspired me most is the human side of hospitality. Of course, numbers are important, but what truly drives me is seeing people grow, my team becoming more confident, and guests leaving with memorable experiences. I want to prove that leadership is not defined by gender, but by heart, consistency, and the courage to step up when challenges arrive.
♦ What are your strategies in managing the property, to differentiate from others in the market?
It’s all about finding the right balance between vision and execution. At HARRIS Puri Mansion, we don’t just sell rooms, we create experiences. Our strategy is therefore threefold. First, commercial focus, strong revenue management, realistic yet ambitious targets, and innovative packages that attract new markets or segments. Second, operational excellence, ensuring that every guest touchpoint is consistent, warm, and memorable. And third, positioning the hotel as a lifestyle destination, through creative and innovative collaborations with influencers, digital storytelling, and F&B concepts that inspire people to share their experiences.
From here, differentiation comes naturally, a “This hotel really understands me” feeling from our loyal guests, where emotional connections become our ultimate brand strength.
♦ What is your leadership style? How do you adapt to current trends and digitalization?
I lead by example and inspire through action. I believe in clarity, recognition, and empathy. I don’t just give instructions, I roll up my sleeves, listen to my team, and empower them to succeed.
As for trends and digitalization, I see them as opportunities, not disruptions. At HARRIS Puri Mansion, we have integrated technology to ensure a seamless journey from check-in to check-out, personalized offers, and stronger online engagement. I constantly remind my team that technology is only a tool; human connections are the soul. This value defines the future of hospitality and belongs to those who can blend both.
♦ Do you have an uplifting message for other female hoteliers who wish to reach the top?
To every woman in hospitality, believe that your journey is valid, no matter where you start. I began as a Sales Coordinator with no thought of becoming a GM one day. Consistency, resilience, and a willingness to learn opened doors I never would have imagined.
My message is don’t be afraid of facing challenges, they are growth in disguise. Build your confidence through knowledge, strengthen your voice through action, and surround yourself with people who uplift you. Most importantly, lead with both your head and your heart. When you shine, you inspire other women to dream even bigger.
♦ How do you manage and balance your professional and personal life? How do you commit to them?
Balance is not about dividing time perfectly; it’s about fully giving presence. At work, I am 100% committed to leading my team and achieving goals. At home, I am both a mother and daughter.
Family is my anchor; they give me perspective and a source of energy. Traveling and exploring culinary locations recharges me, reminding me of why I love hospitality. It’s about connecting people and cultures.
My commitment is simple: when I work, I give my best to my team and company, and when I am with family, I give my heart to them. That balance keeps me inspired and grounded.
♦ What is your opinion on the future of Indonesia’s tourism industry?
I believe Indonesia’s tourism future is promising and has great potential. We have world-class destinations across Indonesia’s vast archipelago, be it the capital of Jakarta and Bali’s heritage culture and beautiful scenery, to Super Priority Destinations and the emerging community-based tourism villages, the key lies in how we integrate sustainability, digital transformation, and human capital development.
Hospitality evolves with personalization and eco-conscious practices, but the essence remains the same, making people feel at home, wherever they are. I see Indonesia not only as a destination but as a story the world wants to experience: rich culture, warm people, and endless creativity. It is our role to be the ambassadors, connectors, and guardians of that heritage. I am optimistic that Indonesia will shine even brighter on the global stage in the coming years.
