With decades of incredible professional achievements under his belt, Murat Kusuma joins one of Indonesia’s most iconic and enduring property groups as it gears towards its brightest year yet.
It is not every day Indonesia Expat has the chance to get to know someone as incredibly seasoned and admirably accomplished as Murat Kusuma. In a profound, yet inspiring conversation with us, the German native, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of SRLand Properties, shares the journey leading up to the leader that he is today. From his humble beginnings in his home country to his formative apprenticeship years in his youth to the exciting challenge that he is about to conquer, Murat Kusuma is poised to be one of the industry mavens to watch this year.
Let’s get started by introducing yourself a bit. What can you tell us about yourself?
I come from Cologne, Germany, where I spent my childhood in the vibrant Belgisches Viertel or Belgian Quarter. Growing up as a half-orphan whose immigrant father single-handedly supported our family, I developed qualities such as independence and initiative from a very young age. I quickly learned that time waits for no one and, driven by my devotion to my family, I had cultivated commitment and consistency. These values led me to embark on my journey as an apprentice at 16 years old at Ford Motor Company.
During my early adulthood, while working at Ford, I discovered a passion for American Football. The physical demands of the sport shaped my character, instilling discipline and resilience. More importantly, it taught me the importance of communication and teamwork. I carried these lessons into my pursuit of higher education in mechanical engineering at HBBK Köln, where I earned my degree. Managing my academics and a full-time job at Ford proved to be one of the most difficult times in my life. My nights were devoted to making a living, and my days were spent in classes. I persisted in not giving up despite the mental and physical difficulty.
You spent approximately 21 years at the Ford Motor Company in Germany. Can you share with us what those years were like? And if you must pick, which important experience or lesson that, later on, shaped you significantly as the leader that you are today?
Indeed, those were truly incredible years. Starting as a blue-collar apprentice, I was fortunate to work in multiple plants, which gave me extensive insight into business operations, especially in supply chain management. A highly rewarding stage of my career took place at the pilot plants, where prototypes were created prior to large-scale production. This opportunity led me to locations in Genk, Belgium; Valencia, Spain; and Germany, providing essential knowledge about the complexities of vehicle development and the significance of accuracy during the pre-production phase.
In the later stages of my tenure at Ford, I worked in the Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD), managing the successful after-sales service for East Germany. Looking back on my experience at Ford, I feel both thankful and proud to have contributed to one of the top automotive brands in the world. The experience cultivated a deep sense of structural discipline and professionalism within me.
After two decades in Germany, you carved another impressive professional resume here in Indonesia, working at the likes of the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Jakarta, and PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. How did that experience mould you as a leader as well as a manager, especially in comparison to your prior two decades in Germany?
After spending two rewarding decades in Germany, moving to Indonesia offered me a rare chance to develop my managerial and leadership abilities in a totally different economic and cultural setting. It was life-changing to work with well-known companies like PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. in Jakarta and Surabaya, as well as the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Jakarta. I was surrounded by a culture of service excellence at the Four Seasons, where the maxim “anticipating guest needs” struck a deep chord. Meanwhile, when I served as the Head of Corporate Operations of PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk., I had the privilege of co-founding the technical service team.
My experience in Indonesia necessitated striking a balance between organised discipline and flexible leadership, in contrast to Germany, where accuracy and predictability were crucial. Thanks to those experiences, I am now a more adaptable manager and leader who can successfully negotiate a variety of professional and cultural contexts.
Another gold star on your professional mantle is when you founded an IT company named iSort back in 2020. I heard that the technological solutions that iSort provides have enjoyed such acclaim from key industry players. Can you tell us a little bit about iSort’s accomplishments?
Founding iSort in 2020 was a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to merge my technical expertise and operational knowledge to create impactful solutions. iSort was created to assist businesses in improving communication, streamlining procedures, and effectively handling daily difficulties. I’ve had the good fortune to watch the business expand and have a positive influence on the sectors we service over the last few years. Practical requirements, including maintenance and compliance management, HR systems, project management, and customer complaint handling, are the major emphasis of our software solutions.
The Asia Excellence Award, which iSort got in 2024, is a testament to the commitment of the team and the faith our clients have in us. In addition to providing excellent software, I think what really sets iSort apart is the supportive and encouraging work environment we’ve established.
Since 2024, you’ve been a part of SRLand Properties as its Chief Operating Officer. Can you tell us what encouraged you to accept such a vital role?
It is a crucial responsibility, certainly, and our CEO Vonny Tresno Santoso’s vision and enthusiasm inspired me to accept my current role. Her accomplishments and leadership since becoming the second generation to take over SRLand Properties in 2012 are incredibly motivating. The business has accomplished many noteworthy achievements under her leadership, such as the construction of its first mixed-use complex with a stunning mall. I now have more faith that my background will help SRLand Properties run more smoothly and achieve even more success.
How would you describe your leadership (and management) style?
Thank you for asking this important question. I would describe my leadership and management style as collaborative, adaptable, and focused on empowerment. I truly believe in the principle of “rise by lifting up others.” Leadership, to me, is about helping those around you succeed and enabling them to reach their full potential. Adaptability is also a key part of my leadership style, especially given the evolving dynamics of today’s workforce. With the rise of Gen Z, who bring fresh perspectives and a strong desire for purpose-driven work, I prioritise understanding their needs and communication styles. Empowerment is central to my approach as well. I trust my team and provide them with the autonomy and support they need to excel. At the core of my leadership philosophy is the belief that leadership is a service to others, helping them rise and, in turn, elevating the entire organisation.
As its Chief Operating Officer, how do you assess and evaluate the progress that SRLand Properties has made in 2024? And what do you believe was the biggest accomplishment that SRLand Properties made that year?
As the Chief Operating Officer of SRLand Properties, I assess the group’s progress by focusing on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, team performance, and the execution of strategic projects. In 2024, SRLand Properties achieved significant milestones. One of the most notable was the continued development of our flagship mixed-use property. This project, featuring a vibrant mall, serviced apartments by Ascott Group, The Suri Ballroom, and an upcoming 5-star hotel, demonstrates our commitment to innovation and excellence in property development. Another highlight was the renovation of the new façade of Pacific Mall in Tegal. The transformation introduced a modern and inviting design that reflects the evolving expectations of our customers while enhancing the mall’s presence in the community.
Additionally, the improvements in operational processes and service quality across the group have positioned SRLand Properties for sustained growth and success.
SRLand Properties has established an impressive reputation for the last 46 years, particularly in Central and East Java. As its Chief Operating Officer, what are your hopes and goals for SRLand Properties in 2025?
My main objective for 2025 is to significantly improve the group’s operational excellence and solidify its standing as a real estate development leader. With the opening of The Suri Ballroom, the year has already begun on a high note.
One of my key aspirations is to ensure that all our properties, from malls to mixed-use developments, consistently deliver exceptional experiences to customers and tenants. This includes maintaining high standards in service, modernising facilities, and implementing innovative solutions to meet evolving industry demands. In addition, I want to concentrate on making our activities more sustainable.
Last but not least, I want to help our team grow since I know that the people who work for the company are its most valuable resource. We can develop a motivated and cooperative staff that propels SRLand Properties to even greater heights by fostering talent and empowering individuals.
SRLAND PROPERTIES
- Phone: +62 24 3511 532 / 533
- Instagram: @srlandproperties
- LinkedIn: srlandproperties
- Email: lanisoetomo@srland.id (Leasing Inquiry)
- Email: adantorilo@srland.id (Leasing Inquiry)
- Website: www.srland.id