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

• My first experience in hospitality was working for “Uncle Chips” as a part-time sales staff after my 12th standard exam in 1994. 

• In 1997, I passed out from IHM Mumbai where I did my Training in Oberoi Mumbai and started working for Hotels like Marina Plaza, Mumbai, and Le Royal Meridien, Mumbai.

• My first stint at Cruise Ships was in 2003 with Airtours UK for a contract.

• In 2004 I joined Cunard Cruise lines “The Most Famous Ocean Liners” in the World.

• In 2016 I got an opportunity to work for “The World” The largest private residential ship on the planet, home to only 165 Residences.

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

• Attitude 

• Resilience

• Knowledge 

• Great people skills, 

• Exceptional attention to detail,

• leadership 

• Teamwork skills 

Editor: What advice would you give to a young, aspiring hotelier for their internship?

• Meet your coworkers. Introduce yourself to everyone in your department.

• Set goals.

• Watch and learn.

• Be professional.

• Keep busy.

• Stay organized.

• Manage your time wisely. Write everything down.

• Keep track of your projects.

Editor: What are some of the trends you see impacting the hospitality industry?

• Mobile app for easy access.

• Tech Explosion.

• Self-check-in to minimize guests' waiting time.

• Voice-activated virtual assistants for anything, and everything.

• Technology to run hotels and bring bookings.

• Sustainability efforts affecting the environment.

• Increase efforts on health and well-being of a guest.

• Real-time damage control,

• Unique Perks.

• Catering to Millennials.

Editor: Two things you would like to change in the industry.

• Hospitality staff needs to be paid well in India if we need to encourage the new generation to stay in the Industry. 

• A modern approach to Indian cuisine to make a global phenomenon.

Editor: What is your favorite interview question and why?

• Why should we hire you?

•  Because the answer to this question summarizes the whole interview process.