Duncan Craig talks about Hard Rock Café, hospitality and his Harley.
DUNCAN CRAIG talks about his passion for food, music and taking in Singapore's most scenic sights while riding head to wind on his Harley Davidson.
DC: When I was looking for new challenges in the region, the opportunity to combine my background in food and beverage, hospitality and my love for music presented itself in this role. I have a passion for music and really enjoy discovering new bands, styles and Artists. As Hard Rock Café's Executive Vice President of Cafe Operations, I oversee the operations of nine outlets in Beijing, Makati, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, and the three in Singapore - Cuscaden Road, Changi Airport and Sentosa. I'm also in-charge of a café in Melaka which is under construction.
TF: What's the most rewarding aspect of being part of the Hard Rock team?
DC: One of the fantastic aspects of Hard Rock is our staff can be themselves - coloured hair, tattoos and studs in various places. It's great to be part of an environment which encourages the team's true personality to shine. It makes our guests' experience even more memorable.
TF: Are you involved in any organisations?
DC: Due to my significant travel, I don't have as much time as I would like to engage in activities. However, I'm a member of the Harley Owners Group and go on rides with them when I'm in town. My Harley is also my only form of motorised transport. I'm also a member of the New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and participate when my schedule permits.
TF: Other passions?
DC: Apart from riding my Harley, exercising is a true joy. My best experiences in Singapore have been running in torrential downpours. I've had two fantastic experiences - once running in MacRitchie Reservoir and the other around the West Coast parks. You really get to enjoy nature at its most extreme. I also love cooking for my family and friends and enjoy consuming my wine cellar, which is constantly growing.
TF: The most attractive aspect of relocating to Singapore?
DC: My return to Singapore was at one of those turning points - news of the development of the Integrated Resorts was announced and Singapore started to become a truly global city, which is great to be a part of.
TF: Favourite local hot spots?
DC: Brewerkz (www.brewerkz.com) for the best micro brews, E-Sarn Thai (www.esarn.com.sg) for tasty, authentic and reasonably priced Thai food and of course Hard Rock Café (www.hardrock.com) for the best burgers, fish and chips and ribs. I've been a fan of the menu even before I started working there!
TF: Top Asian holiday destination?
DC: Bangkok! No matter how many times I visit - and it's been close to 30 times now - I never get tired of the great food, foot massages, trendy bars, Chatuchak markets and varied shopping opportunities.
Hard Rock Café is a chain of theme restaurants founded in 1971. In 1979, the Cafe began covering its walls with rock and roll memorabilia, souvenirs and collectibles - a tradition which expanded globally and is a signature of the restaurant today. Singapore is home to three Hard Rock Cafés which are synonymous with a range of mouth-watering bites. It's also a chosen destination for romantic dinners, family lunches and birthday parties and an ideal place to host corporate events. www.hardrock.com
Posted Dec 2011
