On the shores of Montenegro’s UNESCO-protected Kotor Bay—where mountains meet Adriatic waters in cinematic fashion—Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort has swiftly become one of Europe’s most captivating luxury destinations.
Leading its evolution is Dejan Perić, a hotelier whose career has taken him from Caribbean coastlines to the Croatian islands, and now to a place he describes as “a living postcard.”
Fluent in Spanish, English, and Serbian, and driven by a genuine love of people, culture, and cuisine, Dejan brings more than just experience to the role. He brings a philosophy—of leadership shaped by curiosity, rooted in heritage, and aimed squarely at the future.
We spoke with Dejan about his path into hospitality, what defines his approach to leadership, and how he’s blending wellness, tradition, and cutting-edge strategy to ensure the resort remains not only relevant—but remarkable.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hotel management?
I grew up in a household where guests were treated like family. In the Balkans, hospitality is more than tradition—it’s a way of life. My grandparents taught me that generosity and kindness are part of our social DNA, and those values were passed on to me from a young age.
From sharing home-cooked meals to telling stories around the table, I learned that hospitality is about far more than service—it’s about making people feel they belong. That ethos continues to drive my professional life.
My passion for food, my epicurean nature, and my early experience in restaurants naturally led me to the F&B side of hospitality. But over time, with a strong interest in business and operations, it was only natural that I progressed into hotel management.
How do you balance emerging trends and evolving guests’ preferences?
Hospitality is one of the most dynamic industries in the world—second only, perhaps, to tech. So staying relevant means being agile. At Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay, we constantly review guest feedback, industry trends, and our own data insights to anticipate preferences and innovate with purpose.
We focus on three pillars: personalisation, sustainability, and wellness. That means embracing smart technology to enhance efficiency, crafting eco-conscious experiences, and curating wellness offerings that reflect both ancient wisdom and modern expectations.
One trend I find especially meaningful is the revival of heritage and “old ways.” Guests are increasingly drawn to experiential travel, and that includes reconnecting with nature, food provenance, and timeless wellness principles.
In a sense, we’re not just looking forward—we’re also looking back. Things like seasonal eating, natural materials, local craft, and slow travel aren’t trends—they’re part of our past. Our job is to reinterpret them for today’s guest, using modern tools and contemporary insight.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
I wouldn’t change much—but I do hope to learn a fourth language. Language is such a powerful connector, especially in hospitality, and I’m always seeking new ways to communicate and build bridges across cultures.
Personally, I’d like to travel more. I’m inspired by places, people, and experiences that push me out of my comfort zone. I’ve found that travel not only fuels your imagination—it enhances your empathy, and that’s something every hotelier needs.
Above all, I believe that staying curious is the key to long-term growth. I try to nurture that curiosity every day.
What defines your management style?
My management style is anchored in three things: adaptability, collaboration, and constant evolution. I’ve moved from a more traditional, hierarchical approach to a participative leadership model that empowers the team.
In a multicultural environment, you quickly learn that flexibility is essential. Every team member brings different strengths, and I believe in encouraging those strengths while fostering a collective sense of purpose.
At the core, it’s about creating a culture where people feel safe to speak, confident to act, and inspired to grow. I lead by example but also believe in listening—true leadership is as much about asking the right questions as it is about giving direction.
A good leader sets expectations, removes obstacles, and celebrates progress. My role is to support, enable, and energise the team to achieve shared success.
What are your strategic goals and vision for the hotel, and how does this fit within Hyatt’s portfolio?
We’re fortunate to be located in one of the most stunning natural settings in Europe—Kotor Bay. With six distinctive dining venues, a beach, waterfront terraces, pools, two wellness centres, and newly added event spaces, we’ve laid a powerful foundation.
Our goal now is refinement and distinction. We aim to continually elevate our offering through service innovation, personalised experiences, and a deep integration of sustainability across operations.
We recently launched a new ballroom and rooftop event space, expanded our MICE capabilities, and opened luxury beachfront apartments. Looking ahead to Summer 2025, we’re unveiling a brand-new rooftop lounge restaurant, adding even more vibrancy to our evenings by the bay.
Our property is part of Hyatt’s Classics portfolio, and we’re proud to represent this brand’s values while contributing a uniquely Montenegrin point of view. That blend of global standards and local authenticity is what sets us apart.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Stay passionate. Enthusiasm is contagious—and it’s one of the most important tools in your professional toolkit.
Ask questions. Lots of them. Learn from everyone—your colleagues, your guests, your mentors. Everyone has a story, and every story holds a lesson.
And remember: this is a people business. Relationships, trust, and emotional intelligence are just as vital as any technical skill.
Finally, don’t be afraid to start small. Every role is a stepping stone. What matters most is that you approach each opportunity with humility, energy, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
If you truly love what you do, and you do it with intention, the results will follow.