Exclusive Interview | Radhika Tata, General Manager, Grand Mercure Mysore
/“We envision Grand Mercure Mysore as a place where people come to relax, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Mysore’s culture.”
With over a decade of experience at Accor Hotels, what excites you most about leading Grand Mercure Mysore?
Mysore, the cultural heart of Karnataka, is a city rich in history and tradition. I am particularly drawn to Grand Mercure Mysore because of its unique blend of local culture and international hospitality. The hotel's vibrant ambiance, inspired by the iconic Mysore Palace, perfectly captures the essence of the city.
Having worked across various segments in Accor, from corporate to leisure and convention hotels, I am excited to return to the leisure sector. I believe my diverse experience will allow me to contribute significantly to the success of Grand Mercure Mysore.
Your journey spans multiple Accor properties across India. How have these experiences prepared you for your role in Mysore?
Accor’s culture of continuous learning and development has been instrumental in shaping my career. The company's investment in its people, through training programs and mentorship initiatives, fosters a supportive and inspiring work environment.
Every property I’ve been a part of has offered unique opportunities to learn and grow. The guidance and support of my colleagues and leaders have been invaluable, and I am excited to continue my journey with Accor and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
Mysore is known for its rich heritage and culture. How do you plan to incorporate the local charm into the guest experience at Grand Mercure?
Grand Mercure Mysore is committed to immersing our guests in the heart of local culture. Every aspect of our hotel, from the design and decor to the culinary offerings, reflects the unique charm of Mysore. We’ve incorporated local delicacies into our menus, curated playlists featuring traditional music, and even showcased the renowned Channapatna toys. Our aim is to create an authentic experience that captures the essence of Mysore and Karnataka, ensuring that every guest leaves with a lasting memory.
What are the key strategies you’ll implement to drive business growth and financial success at Grand Mercure Mysore?
Our team is the heart and soul of Grand Mercure Mysore. Their passion and dedication are key to our success. Mysore, with its rich history and cultural heritage, continues to attract international tourists. We’re leveraging social media to connect with a wider audience and showcase the unique experiences we offer. By combining strong business strategies with operational excellence, we aim to exceed guest expectations and for them to be eager to return.
In your previous roles, you’ve been recognized for optimizing operations. What operational improvements are you focusing on at Grand Mercure?
People and product are the cornerstones of our business. By investing in our team, we empower them to deliver exceptional guest experiences. This people-first approach is the foundation of our operational excellence.
You’ve been successful in nurturing talent. How do you approach leadership and team development in your new role?
Leadership here is built on empowerment, respect, and inclusivity, deeply aligned with Accor’s values. Team development is focused on recognizing individual strengths, promoting open communication, and fostering a culture of continuous growth. This approach ensures that each member feels valued and supported, contributing to a motivated team that delivers exceptional, authentic hospitality.
Emphasizing sustainability and community, Grand Mercure Mysore encourages responsibility and purpose, guiding the team to create memorable experiences that resonate with guests.
How do you plan to differentiate Grand Mercure Mysore from other luxury hotels in the region?
We strive to create an unforgettable experience for our guests, one that keeps them captivated within the property. By offering a range of amenities and services, from wellness packages to authentic local cuisine, we aim to position Grand Mercure Mysore as a premier destination. This unique approach sets us apart from other luxury hotels in the region.
What role do sustainability and eco-friendly practices play in your strategy for running the hotel?
Sustainability and eco-friendly practices are central to the strategy at Grand Mercure Mysore, reflecting Accor’s commitment to responsible hospitality. The hotel has adopted a no single-use plastic policy, eliminating disposable plastics throughout the property and replacing them with sustainable alternatives.
To further reduce our environmental footprint, we’ve implemented energy-efficient measures to optimize resource consumption, lowering both operational costs and our impact on the planet.
In promoting green mobility, Grand Mercure Mysore offers EV autos for guests to rent, encouraging eco-friendly local sightseeing and making it easier for visitors to explore Mysore’s rich cultural sites sustainably. Through these practices, we aim to protect and celebrate our environment while delivering an authentic, responsible travel experience.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals for Grand Mercure Mysore, and how do you envision the hotel evolving in the coming years?
Our long-term vision for Grand Mercure Mysore is to establish it as a premier destination that offers a complete experience. We aim to create a vibrant and inclusive environment, catering to families with a focus on child-friendly amenities and activities.
We envision Grand Mercure Mysore as a place where people come to relax, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Mysore’s culture.
