Optimizing Financial Performance: Insights from Meghal Shah at Suba Group

Optimizing Financial Performance: Insights from Meghal Shah at Suba Group

Admin

Published on March 4, 2024

Transitioning from an illustrious 8-year tenure in audit and taxation at a prominent Chartered Accountants firm, Meghal Shah embarked on a career pivot, driven by a desire to explore fresh horizons within the corporate landscape. Drawn by the allure of the hospitality sector, Meghal embraced a new role as Manager of Finance and Accounts at Suba Group. With a foundation of expertise honed in the intricacies of financial management, Meghal now ventures into the dynamic realm of hospitality, poised to bring her unique blend of skills and experience to chart new successes in this vibrant industry.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the hospitality industry, particularly in hotel finance and accounting?

My previous work experience was with Chartered accountants firm for 8 years in Audit and taxation. As a professional, i wanted to switch my career from firm to industry and explore new areas on my professional front. As an industry, hospitality sector has always fascinated me and i got the opportunity to work with Suba group as Manager- Finance and Accounts.

Can you share some key initiatives you've implemented to optimize financial performance within Suba Group Of Hotels amidst the challenges posed by the hospitality industry?

We have successfully done demerger and merger of our group companies as per the Act post covid to strengthen the financial growth of the Suba group.

How do you foster a collaborative environment within your team to ensure effective financial management and accounting practices?

I always believe that Together Everyone Achieves More and that's what is Team for. As a team leader, i have set target deadlines for specific task for better finance management. We keep communications very clear amongst us and work in harmony.

Could you highlight a particularly successful financial initiative or project you've led within the hotel chain, and how it contributed to the business's overall success?

As stated earlier, post covid we have done demerger and merger of our group companies. The whole project was successfully lead by me right from filing applications to NCLT till getting final approval order from NCLT.

As a woman in a leadership role within the hospitality sector, what advice would you give to other aspiring women looking to advance their careers in this industry?

Someone has nicely said that its easier to lead when doing what you love and i suggest to other aspiring women to love the work and have passion to succeed in the career.

In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues facing the hotel industry today, and how can finance and accounting professionals like yourself address these challenges?

Staff retention and rising salary cost, Operational issues, high financing cost, changes in guest expectations, OTA costs are some of the pressing issues of the industry.

With International Women's Day approaching, how do you personally celebrate and advocate for gender equality within your professional sphere?

By spreading appreciation messages to all the lovely women in my life.

Can you discuss the role of innovation and technology in modernising financial operations within the hotel industry, and how Suba Group Of Hotels embraces these advancements?

Suba Group has always belived in innovation and technology. As a group, we are providing contactless payments, digital menus, mobile ordering for room services, streamlined check in and check out, advanced PMS to integrate financial data.

Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of finance and accounting in the hospitality sector, and how do you plan to stay ahead of industry trends and developments?

The industry has rebound strongly post covid and with increased growth in Indian tourism, Hospitality sector will flourish in future and as a group we have strategis to open more and more hotels in tier 2 tier 3 cities.

This Interview is Published Exclusively in HospitalityNews.in.


Vinod K. Tripathi on Building a Sustainable Hospitality Future

Vinod K. Tripathi on Building a Sustainable Hospitality Future

Vinod K. Tripathi

Published on October 1, 2026

What does it take to build a hospitality brand that grows with purpose while remaining responsible towards people and the planet? For Vinod K. Tripathi, Chairman of Eco Hotels & Resorts, the answer comes from a journey shaped by diverse professional experiences, sustainable thinking and a clear vision for the future of Indian hospitality.

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Vinod K. Tripathi opened up about the experiences that have influenced his leadership approach and shared his perspective on some of the key changes shaping the hospitality sector today.

His professional journey across taxation, finance, administration, textiles, real estate and renewable energy has offered him perspectives from different sides of business. Reflecting on this experience, Vinod K. Tripathi said, “My professional journey across taxation, finance, administration, textiles, real estate and renewable energy has given me a broad understanding of businesses and institutions.” He also highlighted how public service and private-sector experience continue to influence his approach at Eco Hotels & Resorts.

The conversation then moved towards the changing hospitality landscape beyond India’s major metros. With Tier II and Tier III cities witnessing growing travel demand, Vinod explained how the mid-segment is evolving beyond affordability, focusing instead on dependable service, comfort and relevant experiences.

At the heart of the brand’s philosophy are People, Planet and Profit. Discussing how these principles influence operations, he shared, “Ultimately, sustainability is about balancing responsible growth, guest experience and long-term value.”

The conversation also explored the growing importance of spiritual tourism, particularly through the launch of Eco Satva in Shirdi and Ayodhya, along with the brand’s pure vegetarian dining format, Sahar.

Looking ahead, Vinod outlined an ambitious growth vision, including reaching 5,000 rooms by FY30 and 15,000 rooms across India over the next decade, while maintaining service consistency, operational efficiency and sustainability.

From professional lessons and sustainable hospitality to spiritual destinations and future expansion, our conversation with Vinod K. Tripathi offered a closer look at the philosophy behind Eco Hotels & Resorts and its evolving journey. Check out the complete interview in the Hospitality News October Magazine on our website and explore the full conversation in the physical copy of the magazine.


Sandeep Ahuja on Shaping the Future of Living & Hospitality

Sandeep Ahuja on Shaping the Future of Living & Hospitality

Sandeep Ahuja

Published on October 1, 2026

What does it take to build a hospitality and living brand that earns trust while continuing to evolve across markets? For Sandeep Ahuja, Managing Director of Atmosphere Living & One Atmosphere, the answer lies in consistency, meaningful experiences and a clear understanding of what customers truly value.

In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, Sandeep shared insights into the leadership principles that have shaped his journey and the thinking behind the continued growth of Atmosphere Living and One Atmosphere.

Reflecting on the importance of long-term brand building, he said, “The principle that has stayed with me is that a brand is built through consistency, not just visibility.” He further highlighted the importance of trust, transparency and attention to detail in an industry where relationships extend far beyond transactions.

The conversation then moved towards one of the emerging areas in real estate and hospitality, leaseback investments. Sharing his perspective on the model, Sandeep explained, “Leaseback is becoming an interesting proposition by bringing together ownership and professionally managed hospitality.” He also outlined how the approach can create sustained value by bringing real estate and hospitality operations together.

The discussion takes an international turn with Arka Enclave Residences in Dubai, Atmosphere Living’s first project in the UAE. Sandeep described it as an important step in taking the brand’s understanding of branded and serviced living to one of the world’s dynamic markets.

But the vision does not stop there. Speaking about the changing expectations around accommodation, Sandeep noted, “The distinction between residential and hospitality is becoming increasingly fluid.” He sees growing relevance in formats that combine the privacy of a home with the convenience and flexibility of hospitality.

Looking ahead, the brands remain focused on expanding across serviced apartments, branded residences, leaseback-led hospitality and integrated real estate-hospitality formats, while keeping quality at the centre of growth. Our conversation with Sandeep Ahuja offered valuable perspectives on how living, hospitality and real estate are coming together to shape new experiences. Check out the complete interview in the Hospitality News October  Magazine on our website and explore the full conversation in the physical copy of the magazine.


The Art of Thoughtful Hospitality Experiences

The Art of Thoughtful Hospitality Experiences

Dushyant Singh

Published on September 1, 2026

What does it take to create a hospitality experience that guests remember long after they leave? Is luxury defined by the setting, the service, or by the ability to make every guest feel genuinely understood? For Dushyant Singh, Hotel Manager, Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, A Tribute Portfolio Resort, the answer lies somewhere deeper, in the art of thoughtful hospitality.

With more than two decades of experience with Marriott International, Dushyant brings a leadership perspective shaped by diverse cultures, markets, hotel operations and multiple successful openings. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, he takes us behind the philosophy guiding Mulberry Shades and shares how the resort is evolving as a wellness and lifestyle destination.

From leadership and financial performance to personalised service, Dushyant explores the delicate balance between commercial discipline and creating experiences that build loyalty. His insights reveal why engaged teams, empowered associates and genuine human connections remain central to delivering meaningful hospitality.

The conversation then moves into one of the most significant shifts in luxury travel - the growing demand for wellness and experiential stays. Dushyant discusses how Mulberry Shades, located at the foothills of Nandi Hills, is responding through wellness retreats, culinary experiences, outdoor activities and personalised itineraries designed to help guests reconnect with themselves, nature and loved ones.

But the future of hospitality is not only about wellness. Technology is rapidly transforming the guest journey, raising an important question: Can hotels embrace automation and digital convenience without losing the human warmth that defines hospitality? Dushyant offers his perspective on how technology can support teams while keeping genuine interaction at the centre.

He also shares his vision for Mulberry Shades and the opportunities ahead - from corporate well-being programmes and bespoke celebrations to fitness, mindful activities and nature-based experiences.

Our conversation with Dushyant Singh offers a thoughtful look at how luxury hospitality is evolving and what it takes to remain relevant in a changing travel landscape. It was a great conversation exploring leadership, innovation, wellness and the future of guest experiences.

Discover the complete interview with Dushyant Singh in the September issue of Hospitalitynews, available on our website, and explore the physical edition for the full story and more insights from the world of hospitality.