Tran Huu Thanh describes himself as a lifelong student of hospitality, a philosophy that’s evident in both his leadership style and career trajectory.
From his early days as a server at Park Hyatt to senior roles across cruise ships, Vietnam, Macau, and Cambodia, he has cultivated a deep, hands-on understanding of what makes a hotel truly memorable. Now at the helm of Fusion Suites Vung Tau, he brings a blend of operational precision and emotional intelligence to the role.
While he’s adept at navigating the complexities of a P&L sheet, his focus remains firmly on people: the guests who entrust him with their experiences, and the teams who deliver those moments with care and passion.
What inspired you to pursue hotel management?
It started with a sense of wonder. I was fascinated by how a simple gesture—a welcome drink, a thoughtful menu placement—could transform a guest’s experience. At Wynn Macau, I saw luxury executed with effortless precision, at RuNam, I learned how cuisine could tell stories. That blend of detail and emotion still fuels my drive today.
How do you balance emerging trends with evolving guest preferences?
Trends come and go, but meaningful connection endures. I pay close attention to feedback—whether it’s data points or a guest mentioning the AC was too loud. Even small cues, like increased oat milk requests, guide our decisions. At Fusion, we reduced plastic waste not for trend’s sake, but because our guests wanted to feel good about where they stayed. It’s about listening and responding with purpose.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
I’d have let go of perfection earlier and embraced the process. Some of our most successful ideas—like our RC car café concept—emerged from spontaneous tweaks. Mistakes? I’ve made plenty. But they’ve been my greatest teachers.
How would you describe your management style?
I lead from the trenches. I won’t ask my team to do anything I haven’t done myself—whether it’s a midnight check-in or sampling a new dish. I believe in setting clear goals, keeping communication open, and celebrating small victories. At Wynn, our “Star of the Month” awards were a simple but powerful way to recognise effort. A happy team creates unforgettable guest experiences.
What is your strategic vision for the hotel, and how does it align with Fusion Group’s goals?
My aim is to make Fusion Suites Vung Tau a true reflection of its location—where international standards meet local soul. Fusion Group’s ethos of thoughtful growth, sustainability, and surprise aligns perfectly. I’m especially focused on elevating our F&B offerings with hyper-local flavours, so every guest leaves thinking, “I need to tell my friends about this.”
What advice would you give to someone starting out in hospitality?
Stay curious. Learn the challenges of every department—spend time with housekeeping, talk to the kitchen team. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about empathy and drive. And always carry a spare pen and notebook—you never know when inspiration will strike.