For Mr Julian Moore, hospitality is defined by alignment - between people, place, and purpose. At Azerai Ke Ga Bay, his leadership prioritises calm over control and authenticity over display. In this conversation, he reflects on restraint, cultural connection, and the subtle discipline of allowing a resort to breathe.
What was it about Azerai that drew you in - was it a considered career move, or a deeper alignment with its philosophy of living and service?
I am drawn to properties where there is a natural alignment with culture, destination, design, and the founder’s vision. These elements are fundamental to creating a truly distinctive experience, supported by an authentic and committed team. Azerai Ke Ga Bay resonated with me on all these levels. It was very much a sense of alignment - one that continues to guide and inspire my work.
Before joining Azerai, how did you envision your role, and how has reality shaped or refined that perspective?
From the outset, there was a clear and open articulation of the property’s vision, achievements, and ambitions. That transparency made the opportunity compelling. The role has largely evolved as expected, though, as with any hospitality endeavour, external economic and environmental factors have presented challenges. Working closely with the team, we have remained focused and are proud of the experience we continue to offer.
What new understandings of hospitality has your journey with Azerai revealed?
While there have been no major operational revelations, Vietnam has highlighted the profound role of family within the team dynamic. The depth of familial responsibility here is exceptional, and it brings with it a sincerity and authenticity that is felt in every guest interaction—an invaluable dimension of hospitality.
Azerai is defined by restraint, stillness, and purposeful simplicity. How do these values shape your leadership and the daily rhythm of the resort?
After more than forty years in hospitality, creating environments where guests feel at ease is second nature to me. As General Manager, I am motivated by the ability to facilitate meaningful experiences that become lasting memories.
The resort’s atmosphere is shaped by clarity of purpose, team development, and a culture that values individuality without compromising standards. Drawing on my experience with remote resorts, I integrate calming elements that encourage renewal and quiet escape—an approach that aligns seamlessly with Azerai’s philosophy and sense of place.
Wellness at Azerai is woven into the resort’s natural rhythm. How do you define wellness, and how is it expressed across the guest journey?
For me, wellness is deeply personal - it is about providing the space, stillness, or activity each guest needs to restore balance. This may be physical, emotional, or simply a moment of quiet reflection.
Throughout the resort, wellness is expressed through light, space, nature, and thoughtful design - from the Ginger Forest at the heart of the property to the seamless flow between indoor and outdoor environments. These elements complement our spa and curated wellness offerings, which continue to evolve in response to our guests’ needs.
How do you cultivate an internal culture where calm, attentiveness, and sincerity feel innate rather than imposed?
My leadership approach is grounded in respect and shared purpose. Every team member plays a vital role, and their voices are valued. I prioritise clear communication, context, and support, particularly during challenging moments.
While operational structure remains disciplined, this openness encourages creativity, connection, and a genuine sense of belonging - qualities that guests instinctively feel the moment they arrive.
Ke Ga Bay remains one of Vietnam’s rare, unspoilt coastal landscapes. What principles ensure Azerai Ke Ga Bay remains grounded in its surroundings while offering understated refinement?
Our connection to place begins with our people. By recruiting locally and investing in long-term development, we support both professional growth and family balance—an essential value in Vietnam. This authenticity is reflected throughout the guest experience.
We prioritise local sourcing, from fresh seafood supplied by nearby fishermen to produce from Da Lat. While Azerai is an international brand, its roots are firmly in Vietnam, and we remain committed to both domestic and international travellers.
The resort’s remote setting reinforces this responsibility daily - offering true escape while fostering a close relationship with the surrounding community and landscape. The natural beauty of Ke Ga Bay continually reminds us of our role as custodians of this rare environment.