Tell us about your journey. How did it all start?  

My career in the industry got off to a great beginning in 2004 with Renaissance, Mumbai, a stunning and extensive property. Needless to say, the impact that property had on the industry and my experiences with Marriott as a brand, played a significant role in my decision to remain committed to my objectives and strengthen within the company. I’ve moved through 8 different hotel chains, including the JW, Renaissance, MHRS, Sheraton, St. Regis, and Westin, in 3 different states and on one memorable international stint.

What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry?

Success in this profession depends on having a pulse on both the industry and ever evolving trends. There is no guidebook on & how to succeed, but I’d say that paying close attention to the details and personalising every experience are the cornerstones. People enjoy feeling unique and being amazed, so all you need to do is carefully curate all of your guest touch points, and you’ll be all set.

Goa is a super competitive location. How do you see the competitive landscape? What do you think will be your edge?

Goa as a destination is so vibrant and exciting with a little bit for everyone regardless of their age or varied preferences. Whilst each traveller may have their own agenda for travel, I do believe that we’ve equipped our property with the perfect landscape and programming to relax, rejuvenate and party all under one roof.

While the market is competitive, you must recognise that luxury travellers need a few things that not everyone can provide, like attention to detail, lavish indulgence, individualised service, and, of course, exceptional security and care.

Our competitive advantages include a beautiful location, incredible programming, fascinating food, and beverage selections, and, of course, a kids club designed for today’s youth to enjoy themselves carefree.

What are the key trends that will define a hotel stay in 2023?

I think the key trend, would be to keep up with the trends! Outdated and out of touch spaces, food and beverage offerings, events and touchpoints are the key reason why a lot of hotels fail to garner repeat guests.

Making a lot of changes in the programming and offering exciting events for guests to enjoy the best of the city they’re visiting is quite honestly the way to go. For an instance, our goal for the year is to “offer the best of Goa, under one roof”, which will be our key focus across food & beverage, recreation, and healthcare.

To make every journey or visit unforgettable and enjoyable, we provide a wide variety of culinary menu options at our in-house restaurants and café. We have The Market, which offers a wide range of food options, including a large buffet to plate and à la carte selection. It has an elegant bar and an indoor dining area that opens into a sizable outdoor dining area with views of the tranquil water features and lotus pond. We have Drift, a lounge where you can relax while enjoying a range of carefully crafted cocktails near the tranquil lotus pond. Anjuna Coffee & Co. is a coffee shop tucked away in a lovely nook of a tall, busy lobby. The glasshouse bar and cuisine, Thyme and Ash is renowned for its distinctive & borderless menu & and tantalizing cocktails, which are created using cutting-edge culinary techniques and exquisite ingredients.

According to you, what distinctive traits define an effective manager or director?

I have always focused heavily on the operations front; my team often mirrors or rather is inspired by how I operate. As cliché as it may sound, I’ve realized that & leading by example is the only way to inspire and encourage your team. A significant difference is made by being present on the shopfloor, interacting and engaging with the guests, and innovating the traditional & surprise and delight & models. In addition to this, including people in the & larger vision is another excellent leadership move. Ideating and exploring creative ideas with the team to determine how we may elevate yesterday to a better tomorrow is truly a great way forward.