In the Lounge with Duncan Yu | Stelliers Greater China 2025 General Manager Finalist
Duncan Yu’s journey in hospitality began in sales and has evolved into a leadership career focused on people, progress, and purpose. Now General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, Duncan brings a practical, team-oriented approach to managing one of Hainan’s well-established resort properties.
In this interview, he shares what he's learned about trust, letting go of control, and the value of growing alongside your team. He also reflects on key industry shifts — from sustainability and wellness to the careful balance between technology and human connection.
Watch the full interview to hear Duncan’s thoughtful take on leadership, change, and the evolving guest experience.
Transcript:
I started my first hotel role as a receptionist at the Grand Hyatt Macau and now I'm very proud to be celebrating my 15-year journey at the best integrated resort – Galaxy Macau.
I was part of the pre-opening team of the group and throughout this year I worked in different hotel roles and different hotel brands under the same roof as the Galaxy Macau.
Today, I'm very honoured to be leading the most amazing hotel – the Banyan Tree Macau – together with my dream team.
What’s something you’ve unlearned as a leader?
I would stay adaptable and stay curious, learning every day.
The hospitality industry is consistently evolving and also embraces the change.
Keep your passion. That will be the foundation of everything that you do.
What key trends do you believe will shape the future of hospitality?
The future of hospitality will be shaped by technology and personalisations.
Guests nowadays are looking for a tailored experiences that alignwith their preferences. Integrated smart technology that enhances our guest experience and makes their life convenient, while maintaining a human touch, will be essential.
How are you preparing the next generation of hoteliers to thrive in a rapidly changing world?
I would say the hospitality industry is a fun industry. You get to meet different people, you get to know different cultures, you get to work in a fun place.
Encouraging the next generation of hoteliers involves innovation, mentorship and think outside the box mentality.
If your hotel had a theme song, what would it be?
Definitely, "We Are Family". Very simple. For everyone in the hotel the bond is like family and we like to make our guests feel like they're back home every time they step into our door.
If you could have dinner with anyone – dead or alive – who would it be and why?
If I could have dinner with anyone it would be 18-year-old me.
I want her to see how much she has achieved and remind her to continue to dream big and thank her for never giving up in this beautiful journey.
What book have you recently read that inspired you?
The book that greatly inspired me is The Power of Now.
It emphasises the importance of mindfulness and living in the moment.
Nothing is better than when you enjoy what you're doing and love what you do.