In the Lounge with Masahisa Oba at The Peninsula Bangkok

Masahisa Oba’s journey into hospitality began when his original dream came to an unexpected end. After spending much of his childhood playing football, he hoped to become a professional player. When that path did not unfold as planned, the encouragement of his football coach led him to enrol in hotel school in Tokyo.

While working at Park Hyatt Tokyo, Masahisa discovered a genuine passion for the industry. He also recognised that he needed to continue his education if he wanted to build a lasting career. Determined to study at EHL, he saved his salary for three years before leaving Japan. Along the way, he worked as an unpaid trainee at Brown’s Hotel in London, gaining valuable experience, improving his English, and preparing for the next stage of his journey in Switzerland.

Those early decisions laid the foundation for an international career that would eventually bring him to The Peninsula. Yet when Masahisa reflects on his journey, he speaks less about individual achievement and more about the friends, colleagues, classmates, mentors, and family members who supported him along the way.

In the full interview, Masahisa discusses the unexpected path that led him into hospitality, the determination required to pursue his ambitions, and why humility and gratitude remain central to the way he views his career.

🎥 Watch the full interview with Masahisa Oba at The Peninsula Bangkok.

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