The Big Cheese interview with Outrigger’s Rory Campbell

The Nibbler goes head to head with Outrigger’s director of sales and marketing for Thailand, Phuket and Koh Samui. Although that’s not to suggest there was any arm wrestling involved.

The great thing about my job is…

Is the rich and diverse cultures in which we operate and the customers we serve. Being able to learn so much about other ways of life is really such a privilege.

The challenge for the industry is …

Keeping pace with technology and changing guest expectations while still fundamentally staying true to the core of values of hospitality. For all the automation and tools available it is essentially people who make the difference.

My greatest achievement is…

Being able to watch so many of my colleagues build great careers. Irrespective of whether I have worked for them or they for me, watching passionate and committed people succeed, and being able to have some part to play in that is always incredibly satisfying.

The biggest thing in MICE this year will be…

Personalization. The ability to meet on the conference deliverables without being constrained to a set formulae or standard “Package”. Clients are looking to be inspired through innovation in all areas.

I try to relax by…

Listening to music, cooking and my other passion, photography.

I don’t understand why…

Common sense is so often forgotten!

My favourite venue/destination is…

Koh Samui. It represents the essence of what a Thai island can aspire to be. A perfect blend of cultural representation, modern infrastructure and sincere hospitality. You really do feel connected from the moment you arrive.

I’ve always wanted to travel to…

Mongolia and Siberia. As a keen photographer, I am constantly inspired by the landscape and the faces of the people there. Such a harsh terrain with so much beauty.

I am scared to death of…

Ignorance and apathy. The world is an amazing place with amazing people and ideas. Without an open mind and will to try something new – things never change.

I can’t live without…

Music. I really do need a soundtrack to my life!

I really wish I had…

Learnt more languages when I was young! It takes an old brain so much longer!!

If I could invite four people to a dinner party, they’d be…

Billy Connolly, Stephen Fry, Tim Minchin and Robin Williams.

For anyone starting out in the industry one piece of advice I’d give would be….

Be honest and always maintain your integrity. Listen, observe and always allow common sense to guide you. It can be a brutal and unforgiving industry at times so love what you do and learn from every experience. The rewards and opportunities are endless.