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

I started my career in the hospitality industry in 2007 counting 14 years of experience in hotel management focusing on housekeeping and room management, worked in International hotel chains in India. Starting from Oberoi Hotels then joined pre-opening for Westin Hyderabad. Moved to Movenpick Hotel and later joined the pre-opening of Four Points by Sheraton as Department Head.

In September 2014 my journey in the industry continues accepting an offer to move to Qatar joining Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels as Assistant Executive Housekeeper and raising the ladders to Executive Housekeeper and from 2019 became Cluster Executive Housekeeper managing a larger team and looking after more properties under the portfolio of Minor Hotels Group. With a hotel, standards have been upgraded, and enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocol are applied, I have taken the lead on all implementation of the adherence of all government regulations and protocols for the safety of all guests and team members.

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

One of the most common characteristics of a successful hotelier is a passion for hospitality. With a passionate hotelier comes a successful business and also growth not only as an individual but also as a team. Another one is the eagerness to learn every day looking into every detail and developing others as you learn. Challenge yourself to become better by not stopping to learn and take risks in trying something new by creating new experiences for guests and the team.

Editor: What are the attributes you look for while selecting or hiring?  If someone wants to work with you, what should they do? 

Punctuality is a big factor for me it describes a lot in one’s personality as punctuality also means loyalty and commitment. I also consider adaptability as this is one of the most challenging for new team members on how easily will they adapt to a new environment and go out of their comfort zone. Also, more than focusing on the skills set I’d like to see how a new team member will create good memories for guests and colleagues. I believe housekeepers are the unsung heroes in the industry. Housekeeping was the backbone of the industry and Housekeeping will continue to be. 

Editor: What according to you can trainees do while they are training at hotels to make it a win-win for them & the hotel/unit?:

 I advise that trainees are open and flexible during their training period as firsthand experience and application of their learning will build their personality as a hotelier. Accept different challenges and try everything to discover where you will best fit in. After getting proper experience and with daily practice they will become more independent and gain confidence which will take them to greater heights in the industry

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

I believe after all of the challenges we have faced a big focus on health and wellness will be looked into and guests will consider the hotel’s reputation in health and wellness. Social media will play a big role with regards to guest feedback especially now they can easily take videos and share firsthand experiences with their audience and friends. I can see a big development in food and beverage with many innovative cuisines and new trend creations. Lastly impact of digitalization having mostly touchless and paperless and the definition of cleanliness not only means no dirt but is disinfected and purely safe and free from any microorganisms.

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

In our Generation Today I must say that hospitality industry has grown a lot and will improve rather than changing more and more than Suggesting on what to improve I must say that we should continue on doing.

First is sustainability, hotels have gone a long way in sustainability and keep on creating more ways to improve as time goes. Our hotels have done a lot on energy saving and efficiency from turning off any equipment when not in use. Big steps as well on waste reduction having most of our items sourced locally and cut down on food waste. Additionally, our hotel toiletries, cleaning supplies, food, and fragrances come in organic forms. We choose products that are recycling packaging or biodegradable cartoons.

Lastly, hospitality to continue on innovations from guest comfort like smart rooms, contactless check-in and check out to innovative cuisine with a fusion of traditional and modern approaches. With all these innovations it becomes easy for travelers all over the world also for hoteliers to adapt from different markets. It will make guests get to be more confident in their stay and not worrying anything focusing on relaxation making their stay more enjoyable

Editor: What can we expect in the coming year? 

The industry will bounce back after the Pandemic people will travel again and will once again be confident in discovering and exploring new places, cultures, and people. FIFA World cup 2022 will be held in Qatar and many fans from all over the world will experience true Qatari Hospitality during their stay in Qatar. It is a big showpiece world event and everyone is excited. Growth in the hospitality sector in Qatar will continue to increase locally, regionally, and internationally.