A brief Coffee Table Chat: Leadership insights inspiration
One-on-One with Julieta Chan
In this interview, we explore the sources of inspiration, valuable advice, and essential team qualities from the perspective of a seasoned business professional. Drawing from personal experiences and mentorship, our interviewee shares insights on leadership, problem-solving, and building strong teams in various professional settings.
1. DO YOU HAVE ANY BUSINESS LEADERS THAT PROVIDE A SOURCE OF INSIPIRATION?
I find inspiration in business leaders and leaders from all walks of life—whether on a basketball court, in a boardroom, in a classroom, or at home. Leadership is a vital skill for both professional and personal success.
In the business sector, I’ve been fortunate to work with exceptional mentors who’ve shaped my path. Katherine Carter, the young GM at Hotel Presidente in San José, Costa Rica, was the first. Alongside CEO Daniel Mikowski, they transformed the hotel into a sustainable property, always believing in me and supporting my ideas. Their approach taught me the power of clear vision, strong processes, and great teamwork—reminding me that meaningful change is possible when driven by purpose.
At Cayuga Collection, Hans Pfister and María José Castro showed me the value of conscious leadership, emphasizing genuine care for the people we work with. This was a game-changer.
Meanwhile, Felipe Artiñano and Ofer Ketter at Origen Escapes encouraged me to break mental barriers and tap into my creative side.
Today, I am learning from three remarkable mentors: Jesús Parrilla and Juan Breiding. Their vast experience has inspired me not only with their knowledge but also with their humility, kindness, and honesty—values I hope to uphold as part of my own legacy.
2. WHAT ELSE DO YOU ENJOY DOING? WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT ADVICE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN IN A JOB?
I’ve received many valuable lessons from my mentors, but one that stands out is from Daniel Mikowski: “Be resourceful.” It’s a reminder to navigate challenges creatively and persistently, seeking solutions even when resources seem limited. This advice has fueled my problem-solving approach and strengthened my ability to build cohesive teams.
Another valuable lesson came from Felipe Artiñano, who posed the question, “Who is the client, you or someone else?” This question challenged me to design experiences and itineraries for the ultra-luxury market with empathy, considering the client’s needs without imposing my own biases.
Finally, I’ve come to understand the importance of knowing my place in my professional journey. Sometimes, I need to follow the lead, while other times, I need to lead the team. Trusting my leader and being prepared to offer constructive feedback has been crucial. Learning this has allowed me to be more resilient, empathetic, and less reactive in different positions within the company.
3. WHAT PERSONAL QUALITY DO YOU VALUE MOST IN YOUR TEAM?
Integrity is the quality I value most. I admire people who show up as their true selves, communicate honestly, and build genuine connections. Integrity fosters trust, which is the foundation of a strong team. People with integrity own their mistakes, take responsibility for their actions, and lead transparently. They provide constructive feedback that helps others grow and maintain a respectful, open environment. This kind of authenticity and accountability is something I truly appreciate in a team.
