How did you tackled the Pandemic :

The covid-19 - pandemic was a turning point for the industry including us. It taught us to be innovative, think of creative solutions, be aware of costs and still market ourselves in a socially responsible way, so that business can continue. I am happy to say we achieved the highest GOP since the hotel opened, better revenue y-o-y from 2019 and the highest Revpar we have ever had. This is a testament to the team spirit and careful measurement of inputs and outputs.

How you feel about the award:

The feeling is amazing. I am elated to receive public recognition for the work that we do on a national level platform like this one. Dedicating this win to my hard-working team at Novotel Visakhapatnam, Novotel Vijayawada and The Bheemili Resort who have been a great support to make all the hotel operations a big success.

Challenges faced in the current role:

Managing payroll costs during lockdown was an emotionally challenging and difficult situation for me. We had to cut down the manpower by sending them back home, yet we managed to pay them a monthly maintenance allowance so that their families do not suffer and at the same time managed the property with minimal staffing to ensure hotel standards and services do not get hampered.

What is your leadership style, way of working in hospitality:

I fall under Coaching leadership style. It is one characterized by collaboration, support, and guidance. I am focussed on bringing out the best in my teams by guiding them through goals and obstacles. I believe that every individual has power within themselves, - by giving them delegation and support will help them to come out as a better individual and good decision maker thus we can see their full potential.

What is your view of the future of the industry

Future of the industry is very bright and promising. During the pandemic all the projects and work which were put on stall will restart and bounce back in full swing, - thus there will be a trigger for travel for completion of projects. Many conferences will return to a live or hybrid format. Vaccine roll out added another layer of protection, - hence people are not afraid of travel, but they take all precautions to make safe experience for themselves. It is a key to unlock all the restrictions, - with this Destination weddings will take over the market, staycation and workcation will still apart of the business model.

How will this award contribute to the transforming landscape of the hospitality industry in the southern region of India

South of India has always been an unique market for it's own characteristics, customer likes and dislikes with regards to travel and tourism. An award like this brings in national best practices in management of  hotels hospitality and F&B to these markets. We significantly apply this to our properties like Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada Varun and The Bheemili Resort managed by Accor. We endeavour to exactly bring these best international practices to the southern market.