How GM Sebastian Krack Brings Global Experience To Hyatt Centric KL

At just 37, Sebastian Krack steps into his first General Manager role at Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur with the confidence of someone who has lived many lives within hospitality. From his beginnings in a small German town to dynamic postings in Beijing, Bangkok, and Jakarta, his journey has been shaped less by titles than by curiosity, culture, and connection. Each city has taught him something different about people — how they communicate, what they value, and how they want to be seen. These lessons now inform his approach as he leads one of Kuala Lumpur’s most anticipated lifestyle hotels.

For Krack, hospitality has always been deeply human. He started his career on the ground, long before stepping into management roles across Asia’s most prominent luxury properties. Those early years instilled in him a profound respect for every role within a hotel and a leadership philosophy grounded in empathy, authenticity, and presence. He leads the way he lives: with intention, curiosity, and a genuine desire to uplift those around him.

Now in Kuala Lumpur, Krack’s vision for Hyatt Centric goes beyond operations. He wants the hotel to become a launchpad for exploration — a place where travellers feel connected to the soul of the city and where team members feel inspired, valued, and empowered to grow. As he reflects on his role as a leader, husband, and father, Krack embraces a more modern understanding of strength: one defined by balance, care, and the quiet confidence to lead with heart.

A New Chapter in Leadership

Congratulations on your appointment as General Manager of Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur. What does this new role represent for you personally and professionally?

Thank you! This role represents both new chapter and a full-circle moment for me. Personally, it’s a milestone — my first General Manager
appointment — and professionally, it’s the opportunity to bring everything I’ve learned over the years together in a way that truly impacts people.

Leading Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur allows me to combine operational excellence with creativity and purpose — building a hotel that connects guests to the pulse of the city while fostering a culture where my team feels valued and inspired.

You’ve worked across diverse cities, from Beijing and Bangkok to Jakarta. How have those experiences shaped your approach to leadership
today?

Living and working in so many different places have been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Each city, each culture, has taught me something new about people — about patience, empathy, and communication. What works in Bangkok might not work in Jakarta or Kuala
Lumpur. The key is to listen, to understand first. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about one style or formula — it’s about being human first, and leading in a way that respects and uplifts the people around you.

Leading With Authenticity

Having managed hotels in dynamic, fast-paced cities, what lessons have you learned about adapting leadership to different markets and teams?

The biggest lesson is adaptability. Observation is key — you need to understand what drives your people and your guests in each environment. Once you have that foundation, you can create alignment around shared goals. I’ve learned that consistency and standards matter, but flexibility in execution is what makes a leader effective across cultures.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved through your years working in different cultural contexts?

My leadership philosophy has always been rooted in authenticity, empathy, and curiosity. I try to lead by example — to be approachable and
real. I started my journey from the ground up: cleaning dishes, setting breakfast tables, and working in service as part of hotel operations. Those experiences gave me deep respect for every role within a hotel. Over time, I’ve also learned that leadership isn’t about control; it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe to innovate, make mistakes, and grow.

A Global Lens, A Local Soul

Today’s travellers crave authentic connection and local immersion. How does Hyatt Centric plan to meet those expectations in Kuala Lumpur?

Hyatt Centric is designed for the curious traveller and savvy explorers— those who want to explore and connect with the local scene. Our role is to be the launchpad for that experience. At Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, we weave local elements into everything — from partnerships with neighbourhood artisans to food concepts that reflect the city’s rich culture. It’s about creating a hotel that feels like part of the community, not separate from it.

How do you think your international background influences the guest experience you want to create here?

My background has taught me that hospitality is universal — everyone wants to feel welcomed, understood, and cared for. But how you express that warmth changes from culture to culture. Having worked in places as diverse as Beijing, Bangkok, and Jakarta, I’ve learned to find that common thread of connection. Here in Kuala Lumpur, I want our guests to experience both — the reliability of Hyatt hospitality and the soul of Malaysia’s local character.

You’re known to enjoy golf and Muay Thai. How do these activities help you manage stress and stay focused?

Both are grounding in different ways. Golf gives me stillness — it forces you to slow down, focus, and be fully present. Muay Thai, on the other hand, teaches discipline and control through movement. Both are meditative in their own way. In hospitality, days can be intense and
unpredictable, so these activities help me reset — they give me perspective, clarity, and the energy to show up fully for my team.

Fatherhood and Perspective

Has fatherhood influenced your approach to leadership or changed your perspective on success?

Absolutely! Fatherhood has taught me perspective and empathy on a deeper level. It has made me more patient and more aware of the importance of balance — not just for myself, but for my team. Success now means creating environments where people can thrive professionally without sacrificing their wellbeing or family time.

Who or what has had the most significant influence on your career and leadership style?

Early in my career, I was inspired by leaders who led with heart and authenticity. One moment that stands out is listening to a Hyatt general manager in Amsterdam speak — it was not scripted, it came from genuine experience. That showed me that real leadership is about connecting through purpose and story, not position or title.

When you look back on your international journey, what moments stand out as turning points?

Bringing Le Petit Chef dining concept to Park Hyatt Bangkok was a defining moment. It taught me that bold creativity, when grounded in
quality and purpose, can transform a hotel’s identity and guest perception. It was a reminder that innovation and authenticity can coexist beautifully.

Redefining Masculinity

This International Men’s Day highlights positive masculinity. How has your understanding of masculinity evolved over time, especially as a leader, husband, and father?

For me, masculinity today is about empathy, humility, and strength through care. It’s no longer defined by dominance or authority, but by
emotional intelligence and balance. Over the years, I’ve learned that real strength lies in vulnerability — in being present, listening, and showing compassion. As a leader, husband, and father, I’ve come to see that ambition and empathy can, and should, coexist. True confidence is quiet, kind, and human.

What message would you share with men this International Men’s Day about leading with purpose, balance, and compassion?

Lead with care. Success isn’t measured only by achievements, but by the impact you have on people. Stay curious, stay kind, and remember that balance is strength — not a compromise. The best leaders are those who uplift others while staying grounded in purpose and empathy.

(Photos courtesy of Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur)