In the heart of Thailand, a formidable force of women leaders is shattering glass ceilings and inspiring change within the prestigious Four Seasons Resorts. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, these trailblazers redefine leadership, foster inclusivity, and empower others to embrace their authentic selves.
The commercial backbone of Four Seasons Resorts Thailand – comprising three stunning resorts in Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Tented Camp Golden Triangle – is a tight-knit network of strong, assertive, charismatic, and confident women from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and professional experiences across geographies. Led by Senior Director of Marketing Smriti Khandelwal, this powerhouse team is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion and unity.
Blazing a Trail in Thailand’s Workforce
Thailand’s female population constitutes 47% of the country’s workforce—the highest percentage of working women in Asia-Pacific. Four Seasons Resorts of Thailand’s women who oversee the Sales, Revenue Optimization, Public Relations, Marcomms, and Reservations functions are blazing a trail.
At the helm of this dynamic team is Smriti Khandelwal, whose journey from India to Singapore and now Thailand embodies a series of transitions and 19 home moves. A proponent of open debates on business challenges and being bold and brave to try new ideas, Khandelwal inspires an inclusive approach to leadership. Working with diverse teams with various strengths and viewpoints has shaped her into a leader who values openness and is willing to challenge conventional norms, creating a space where different perspectives are acknowledged and appreciated.
Khandelwal’s narrative is deeply intertwined with the unwavering support of crucial male figures, including her father, husband, and professional colleagues. Her father’s influence equipped her with resilience, while her husband’s decision to forgo a secure military career highlights the depth of personal support she receives and the value of family. Khandelwal goes beyond traditional views of work-life balance, engaging in the moment – whether as a mother, a marketer, or in her leisure activities. This “disconnecting to connect” philosophy allows her to focus on each aspect of her life, leading to excellence across her varied roles.
Resilience, Adaptability, and Amplifying Voices
Piyanart Potjanathum, Senior Director of Sales, fondly known as Natt, believes in the power of expression to inspire inclusion across all levels of her professional environment and the wider community. She emphasizes the ongoing global challenge for women to be heard. She encourages amplifying their voices, noting that while there has been progress, the journey towards total inclusivity is far from complete.
For Natt, the right to articulate one’s thoughts and feelings is fundamental to fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Her advocacy for expression is marked by courageous decisions that have defined her character. From relocating to the US alone and balancing multiple jobs to sustain herself to navigating the complexities of working in India’s distinct cultural and professional milieu, Natt’s experiences have fortified her resilience and drive.
These life challenges have shaped her into a tenacious and adaptable individual and instilled a profound appreciation for the impactful women she has met. Natt attributes her achievements to the strong female mentors and peers who have inspired her, underscoring women’s vital role in her life.
Embracing Diversity and Pursuing Empowerment
Astuti Singh, Senior Director of Digital Marketing, Public Relations, and Communications, has had a professional journey spanning India, Dubai, and Bangkok, profoundly influencing her perspective on inclusion. She emphasizes racial diversity and gender equality, advocates an environment free from discrimination, and strives to create a space where everyone has equal opportunities for growth, idea-sharing, and open communication.
For Singh, work-life balance is synonymous with maintaining mental, physical, and emotional health. While committed to giving her all professionally, she prioritizes self-care during her time. Astuti champions the belief that women should attain mental, physical, and financial strength, considering these the foundational pillars of empowerment.
Living independently in Bangkok and navigating a long-distance marriage, she credits her husband’s unwavering support as pivotal to her success. His decision to take a career break to assist her during the initial phase of her new role and life in Bangkok underscores the strength of their partnership, viewing her husband as both her anchor and sanctuary during times of anxiety.
Balancing Roles and Championing Harmony
Khwanla Lunput, fondly known as Khwan, the Reservations Manager, draws inspiration from her son, who motivates her to be a dedicated mother. This influence led her to relocate to Bangkok, where she actively engages in personal and professional spheres. Known for her strong work ethic, Khwan’s calm and positive demeanour is well-loved, even as she consistently prioritizes the well-being of each team member as a dedicated listener.
Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for Khwan, as she starts her day with a 10-15 minute morning exercise routine. She emphasizes the need for a balance between hard work during office hours and relaxation afterwards, believing that striking this balance contributes to more efficient work results, as it rejuvenates and prevents fatigue.
Khwan champions the idea that women can surpass limitations, emerge as leaders in organizations, and contribute to diversity in the workplace. She refers to gender inclusion as a catalyst for achieving a harmonious life balance for everyone.
Embracing Equality and Finding Inner Strength
Nonthawan Panichjirasakul, fondly nicknamed Belle, specialises in numbers and tables. Having discovered her passion in university, she has accumulated valuable experience in the airline and banking industries. Belle leads revenue management with traits such as mutuality, determination, and a positive attitude. She also exhibits her favourite colour—purple.
Belle is currently pursuing further education in Chiang Mai. She acknowledges her father as a source of encouragement and someone who sacrificed for her upbringing. When managing work-life balance, Belle believes in setting the rhythm of one’s life according to personal goals, allocating 40-60% to herself and 40-60% to work depending on the situation, which may sometimes exceed 100% capability.
Emphasizing well-being, she believes it originates from within, from the heart, before manifesting outwardly. Regarding inclusion, Belle envisions a world where girls have more equal opportunities and modern women can embrace and actualize equality.
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, the formidable women leaders of Four Seasons Resorts Thailand stand as shining beacons of inspiration, shattering glass ceilings and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Their stories of resilience, adaptability, empowerment, and unwavering determination testify to the transformative power of unity and the unstoppable force women can unleash when they embrace their authentic selves.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
