Skal International Bangkok’s October meeting showcased leadership, culinary mastery, and a vision for growth, reinforcing its regional prominence.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – In a remarkable gathering that left its members inspired and delighted, Skal International Bangkok once again showcased its unwavering commitment to excellence. The October meeting, hosted at the iconic 31st-floor RR&B restaurant of The Landmark Bangkok, was heralded as one of the finest in recent memory. The event not only celebrated the club’s resurgence but also highlighted its ongoing journey to become the preeminent Skal Club in Southeast Asia under the dynamic leadership of President James Thurlby.
The Landmark Bangkok, once the tallest hotel in the city, is currently undergoing a transformation. Members had the unique opportunity to witness first-hand the stunning evolution of this historic property, which now boasts revitalised food and beverage offerings that blend tradition with contemporary flair. The venue RR&B, with its panoramic views and sophisticated ambiance, served as the perfect backdrop for a meeting that seamlessly and expertly blended networking, culinary excellence, and forward-looking discussions.
A Vision for Growth and Excellence
President James Thurlby said in a recent interview, “Skal International Bangkok is on a mission to establish itself as the finest Skal Club in the region. This goal is not just aspirational, it is driven by the club’s robust commitment to fostering strategic partnerships with Chambers of Commerce, PATA and Skal Asia, nurturing young talent, and providing unparalleled experiences for its members. Emerging from the challenges of the pandemic, the club is now, with the help of our magnificent sponsors, stronger than ever, with an invigorated executive committee and a strategic focus on fostering collaboration both locally and globally,” the Club President said.
The recently concluded Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) solidified the leadership that will guide this vision. The re-election of James Thurlby as Club President, alongside Jennifer Ferris as Club Secretary and the appointment of Kanokros Sakdanares as Vice President for Women in Leadership, underscores the club’s dedication to diversity, leadership, and continuity. These seasoned leaders, elected for the 2024-2026 term, are poised to steer the club with existing members of the current board, together they bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to driving Skal International Bangkok to new heights.
An Unparalleled Culinary Experience
True to its reputation as a leader in event hospitality, the meeting also featured a culinary showcase that left guests in awe. Chef Philippe Gaudal, Executive Chef of The Landmark curated along with the award-winning team of the RR&B restaurant, a lunch that epitomized innovation and mastery. The special luncheon menu, featured delights of Onion Soup with Cheese Panna Cotta, Caramelized Onion, Soubise Espuma, and Oxtail Toasty and Chicken Breast Fricasse with Sauce Chasseur and Pomme Fondante and the delicate Quenelle Lyonnaise with Blue Crab Bisque Sauce and a refined Tiramisu adorned with intricate tuile, was met with accolades from members and guests alike. Diners were treated to a symphony of flavors that highlighted the skill and creativity of Bangkok’s culinary scene, with many praising it as “utterly delicious”.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Beyond the exquisite fare, the meeting was also a platform for thought leadership. Guest speaker Jason Lu, a visionary in the leisure, travel, and hospitality sectors, delivered an insightful presentation on navigating the complexities of online distribution and business expansion in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape. Drawing on his 17 years of experience and his current role with Fliggy, Alibaba Group’s premier travel platform, Jason provided valuable perspectives that resonated with Skal members, offering them a roadmap for success in an increasingly digital world.
A Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration
Skal International Bangkok’s commitment to innovation extends beyond the meeting room. The club has continued to cultivate partnerships that provide members with exclusive access to premium products and experiences. This includes the introduction of new beverage offerings, such as Serenity Wines Asia’s fine selections and Prunk & Partners’ German Riesling, “In Love with Thai Food.” Such collaborations exemplify the club’s role as a leader in the food and beverage sector, offering its members the opportunity to be the first to explore emerging trends.
Looking ahead, Skal International Bangkok has an ambitious calendar, including the 12th November 2024 Cocktail Networking evening at the glorious Sukhothai Bangkok from 6:30pm onwards and the highly anticipated Christmas function at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit Hotel. This event, set to be the largest on the Skal calendar in partnership with PATA Thailand, promises an event of unparalleled networking, with a wealth of raffle and auction prizes and an opportunity to support charitable causes in Thailand. Vice President Marvin Bemand is gathering an extraordinary line-up of door prizes, ensuring this event will be a highlight of the year for members and guests alike on the 12th December 2024.
A Bright Future for Skal International Bangkok
As Skal International Bangkok continues to thrive, its vision remains clear: to create a platform that empowers the next generation of hospitality leaders, fosters meaningful business connections, and solidifies its standing as a pillar of the global Skal community. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and excellence, the club is poised to set new standards in the world of travel and tourism.
Andrew J Wood was born in Yorkshire England, he is a former hotelier, Skalleague and travel writer. Andrew has 48 years of hospitality and travel experience. Educated at Batley Grammar School and a hotel graduate of Napier University, Edinburgh. Andrew started his career in London, working with various hotels. His first posting overseas was with Hilton International, in Paris, and he later arrived in Asia in 1991 on Bangkok with his appointment as Director of Marketing at the Shangri-La Hotel and has remained in Thailand ever since. Andrew has also worked with the Royal Garden Resort Group now Anantara (Vice President) and the Landmark Group of Hotels (Vice President of Sales and Marketing). Latterly he has been the General Manager at the Royal Cliff Group of Hotels in Pattaya and the Chaophya Park Hotel Bangkok & Resorts.
A past board member and Director of Skål International (SI), a former National President with SI Thailand and a two time past President of the Bangkok Club. Andrew is the former President of Skål Asia. In 2019, Andrew was awarded SKÅL’s highest award the distinction of Membre D’Honneur.
He is a regular guest lecturer at various Universities in Asia.
