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Published on August 1, 2026
As India's hospitality industry accelerates into a new era of growth, conversations around talent, operational excellence, and future-ready leadership have never been more important. While the sector continues to expand with strong government support and increasing investment, one question remains at the heart of its success, how can hospitality professionals be better prepared for the realities of modern hotel operations?
In this exclusive feature for Hospitality News August Magazine, we had the opportunity to engage with Sanjeev Kumar FIH, Founder of HOSPI Sigma™, whose decades of leadership across some of the world's most respected hotel brands have shaped a unique perspective on hospitality capability and operational excellence.
Drawing from over 30 years of experience spanning Taj Hotels, ITC Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts (now Marriott International), Premier Inn, and international leadership assignments, Kumar shares the journey that led to the creation of the world's first Unified Lean Six Sigma-based capability framework designed exclusively for hospitality. His insights go beyond conventional training, exploring how structured thinking, operational discipline, and decision-making under pressure can transform hospitality professionals at every stage of their careers.
The feature also explores the industry's widening skills gap, the growing importance of capability-based learning, HOSPI Sigma™'s expanding collaborations with hospitality institutes and hotel groups, and how the framework aligns with India's ambitious vision for hospitality education and workforce development.
Adding further depth to the conversation, the leadership team behind HOSPI Sigma™ discusses the importance of globally recognised professional development, stronger academia-industry collaboration, inclusive talent development, and building an ecosystem that prepares professionals for long-term success.
Rather than revealing every insight here, this feature offers only a glimpse into a conversation that examines where hospitality education stands today and where it must go next. From operational challenges to leadership philosophy, and from structured capability development to the future of hospitality talent, the discussion presents valuable perspectives for hotel leaders, educators, students, and industry professionals alike.
It was a privilege to engage in such a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation with Sanjeev Kumar FIH and the HOSPI Sigma™ leadership team. To explore the complete feature and gain deeper insights into their vision for transforming hospitality capability, read the full interview in the Hospitality News August Magazine, available on our website, or experience it in the print edition by getting your physical copy.
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Published on November 1, 2026
What separates a growing hotel business from a profitable one? Is it stronger sales, smarter revenue management, effective marketing, or the ability to recognise opportunities before the market does? In an industry shaped by changing traveller behaviour and increasing competition, commercial strategy has become central to long-term hospitality growth.
For Akshay Thusoo, Senior Vice President – Commercial at Sarovar Hotels, the answer lies in looking beyond individual business functions and understanding how every operational and commercial decision contributes to profitability.
With experience spanning engineering, sales, marketing and hospitality, Akshay brings a distinctive cross-industry perspective to commercial leadership. Having previously worked with The Oberoi Group, ITC Ltd and the Times of India Group, his professional journey has shaped an approach that combines analytical thinking, market understanding and operational efficiency.
In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Akshay shares his perspective on the changing dynamics of India's hospitality market and the strategies guiding Sarovar Hotels' commercial growth. From integrating sales, revenue management, marketing and distribution to understanding the financial impact of decisions across hotel departments, he explains why profitability requires a broader organisational perspective.
The discussion takes an interesting turn towards the influence of changing weather patterns on travel behaviour. As travellers increasingly explore destinations based on climatic conditions, hotels must rethink traditional seasonal demand and adapt their pricing and inventory strategies.
He also examines how social media creators and digital communities are influencing destination discovery, while highlighting why authenticity and credibility matter more than visibility alone.
Beyond marketing, Akshay discusses the opportunities emerging in India's smaller cities and developing destinations, where branded hospitality can unlock new business and leisure demand. With Sarovar working towards a network of 400 hotels by 2029, identifying commercially viable markets remains an important part of its expansion strategy.
The conversation also explores brand positioning, guest-centricity and the importance of balancing consistency with the distinct requirements of different hotel segments.
Our conversation with Akshay Thusoo offers valuable insights into the commercial thinking behind modern hospitality and the factors that will influence its next phase of growth.
Discover the complete interview with Akshay Thusoo in the November issue of Hospitalitynews, available on our website. Get your physical copy of the magazine to explore the full conversation and more perspectives from hospitality industry leaders.
What makes a hospitality brand stand the test of time? Is it the destinations it enters, the experiences it creates, or the values it refuses to compromise on? For Pooja Ray, Managing Director of MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, the answer lies in understanding that true luxury begins with a strong sense of place.
With over 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Pooja Ray leads one of India's prominent homegrown hotel groups, overseeing a portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across the country. Guided by the philosophy, "Stay With Us. Stay With Nature.", MAYFAIR has built its identity around destinations where architecture, landscape, local culture and personalised service come together.
In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Pooja takes us through the brand's journey of more than four decades, reflecting on the values that have remained central to its growth. She shares how her family legacy has influenced her leadership philosophy and why people, rather than infrastructure or technology, remain the foundation of memorable hospitality.
The conversation also explores an interesting dimension of luxury, the ability to bring culture and heritage into contemporary hotel experiences. From regional craftsmanship and traditional materials to art collections, antiques and destination-inspired architecture, Pooja explains how MAYFAIR approaches design as a form of storytelling.
Looking ahead, the discussion turns towards the group's next phase of expansion. With upcoming developments such as MAYFAIR Chilika, Mayfair Sanctuary and MAYFAIR Vizag, she offers insights into the thinking behind creating distinctive properties rather than following a standardised expansion model.
Beyond expansion, Pooja also addresses the growing role of technology, the importance of responsible growth and the qualities young professionals need to succeed in an increasingly competitive hospitality industry.
Our conversation with Pooja Ray offers a compelling perspective on building a hospitality legacy while remaining receptive to changing traveller expectations. It was a wonderful exchange exploring leadership, heritage, innovation and the importance of staying connected to nature.
Discover the complete interview with Pooja Ray in the November issue of Hospitalitynews, available on our website. Readers can also get their physical copy of the magazine to explore the full conversation and more stories from the hospitality industry
What makes a luxury stay truly unforgettable? Is it the grandeur of a palace, the beauty of its surroundings, or the people who turn every moment into a memorable experience? At Raffles Udaipur, it is the thoughtful combination of these elements that defines its approach to hospitality.
Set against the scenic beauty of Udai Sagar Lake, Raffles Udaipur brings together royal elegance, personalised service, and distinctive guest experiences. Leading this vision is Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager of the property, whose hospitality journey reflects a strong belief in people, attention to detail, and the importance of making every guest feel valued.
In an exclusive interview with HospitalityNews, Gurnoor shares his perspective on luxury hospitality, reflecting on the professional experiences that have shaped his leadership and the inspiration behind his career. Having been recognised among the 30 Best GMs in the UAE, he highlights the importance of empowering teams and creating a culture where thoughtful service goes beyond expectations.
The conversation also explores Udaipur's growing prominence as a destination wedding hub. With its 21-acre private island, distinctive venues, and picturesque surroundings, Raffles Udaipur offers couples opportunities to create celebrations that reflect their individual stories. From intimate gatherings to grand multi-day weddings, the property brings together personalised planning and the cultural charm of Rajasthan.
Beyond celebrations, the interview takes readers closer to Lakeshore – A Distinct Experience by Raffles Udaipur. Featuring 36 rooms and suites, Lakeshore offers an intimate lakeside setting where private boat journeys, distinctive dining, and seamless service add another dimension to the guest experience.
But what truly connects these experiences is the property's relationship with its surroundings. Gurnoor discusses how Rajasthani craftsmanship, local traditions, regional cuisine, and nature-inspired activities help guests discover Udaipur beyond its architectural beauty.
The conversation also highlights a significant achievement: Raffles Udaipur receiving Two MICHELIN Keys for the second consecutive year. Gurnoor reflects on the Heartists behind this recognition and shares his vision for developing meaningful wellness experiences and personalised celebrations in the years ahead.
It was a pleasure to speak with Gurnoor Bindra and gain a deeper understanding of the leadership, people, and philosophy shaping Raffles Udaipur's distinctive hospitality experience.
What goes into creating luxury that guests remember long after their stay? Discover the complete conversation in the November edition of HospitalityNews Magazine, available on our website in e-magazine format. Readers can also explore the physical edition for more exclusive interviews, industry perspectives, and inspiring hospitality stories.
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