Sanjeev Mandal's Remarkable Hospitality Journey: Balancing Passion and Leadership

Sanjeev Mandal's Remarkable Hospitality Journey: Balancing Passion and Leadership

Admin

Published on September 1, 2023

In this edition, we spotlight Sanjeev Mandal, the General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai. Renowned for his unparalleled benchmarks, remarkable leadership, and an unwavering ardor for hospitality, Mandal takes the reins.

About General Manager Sanjeev Mandal

Sanjeev Mandal began his career at Goa Marriott Hotel, India, as a Lead Associate. He progressed internationally, holding roles like Shift Leader and Conference and Banqueting Supervisor at St. Pierre Marriott Hotel, Chepstow, Wales. Back in India, he assumed significant positions at Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention center and Courtyard by Marriott. He further contributed as Food & Beverage Incharge at Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention center and Courtyard by Marriott. His journey continued as Food and Beverage Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad. Sanjeev's leadership extended to Hotel Manager roles in Kathmandu, Nepal, and Lucknow, India. He now excels as General Manager at Marriott International in Chennai, India.

1 What is the USP of your property, Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai?

Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai, strategically resides in a prime locale, conveniently neighboring key business hubs and financial districts. For visa-related travelers, the Singapore and US consulates are also in proximity. Our hotel uniquely bridges luxury and budget accommodations, catering to a diverse array of guests encompassing business and leisure travelers. Whether solo or with family, our offerings aptly cater to all preferences.

A standout feature is our kitchenette suites, providing guests with comprehensive culinary facilities. Our accommodation spans from 6 months to 8 years, fostering lasting relationships grounded in room quality, strategic location, and comprehensive amenities. Recent years have witnessed the integration of cutting-edge post-COVID technologies, seamlessly blending with skilled personnel and top-tier infrastructure. Courtyard by Marriott epitomizes a ‘home away from home’ for every traveler.

2 How do you maintain a balance between fostering a great work environment and delivering a top-notch guest experience?

I'm a firm advocate for the strength of teamwork. Within my leadership team, consisting of around 10 members from diverse departments, I prioritize clear communication of my vision and goals. This clarity is particularly crucial during budget planning, a stage that demands alignment. With a team driven by both passion and proficiency, my role as a leader is streamlined, guiding them towards excellence in their respective capacities. This symbiotic relationship catalyzes their personal growth while ensuring a paramount guest experience—an absolute imperative.

Leading by example, I stand in solidarity with my team. Whenever challenges arise, I assume full responsibility and spearhead a comprehensive analysis, pinpointing the core issues. This proactive stance cultivates a culture of learning from missteps, driving continual advancement. Acknowledging the cyclical nature of business, occasional months may underperform. Yet, these periods provide valuable insights that finesse our strategies for the forthcoming year.

Be it devising sales, revenue, guest experience elevation strategies, or undertaking hotel projects, we collaboratively sculpt our approaches. Brainstorming sessions precede these initiatives, often yielding breakthroughs from unexpected sources. A recent triumph emerged with the creation of a dedicated guest relations team focused on elevating experiences. This innovation empowers meticulous feedback analysis, facilitating refinement where needed.

My trust in the team is reciprocated with skill development opportunities, fostering empowerment. Coupled with their adaptability to evolving guest demands, this empowerment positions them as torchbearers of expertise within the team and beyond.

3 What is an innovative or creative initiative you have implemented to enhance guest satisfaction?

We recently reimagined 10 standard guest rooms into kitchenette suites, driven by substantial demand from guests seeking extended stays spanning 6 months to 2 years. This trend was particularly evident in the Japanese and Korean markets, where guests often brought their own culinary provisions from home. This adaptation was tailored to cater to their unique dietary requirements, elevating the extended-stay experience for these valued visitors.

On the technological front, Marriott presents the guest experience platform known as GXP. This innovative tool streamlines communication, rendering voice calls and emails unnecessary. Guests can effortlessly communicate their arrival, departure times, room preferences, bedding changes, or any other needs via this platform. The process is seamless—type your message, and our vigilant monitoring team ensures prompt fulfillment. In case of any oversight, a review of the chat history facilitates swift rectification.

Marriott's mobile application, Marriott Bonvoy, has revolutionized room access, obviating the necessity for physical keys. Utilizing this app, guests can unlock their doors with ease. What was initially available across all Marriott hotels has been seamlessly incorporated here as well, a testament to dedicated management efforts.

Navigating the pandemic landscape, QR code menus were introduced, yet the allure of tactile menu perusal endured. Today, we reintroduce that personalized touch with a technological twist. Our implementation permits guests to access menus digitally from their rooms. While hard copy menus remain an option, this technology empowers guests to peruse, select items, indicate preferences, and enjoy timely deliveries.

4 How do you ensure the hotel staff remain motivated and enthusiastic about delivering exceptional services, day in and day out?

I, along with my leadership team, am steadfast in seizing opportunities for the advancement of our team and hotel members. Whenever a chance for progress presents itself, I take the lead in advocating for them. Whether within our team or across our extensive network of 140+ hotels in India, I ardently champion opportunities like transfers within the Marriott family. This philosophy resonates consistently in my meetings and various forums, as our collective aspiration is unwavering growth.

My focus extends to prioritizing skill development, nurturing essential soft skills, and propelling individuals toward mastery within their roles and even beyond. This commitment is underpinned by fair treatment, motivational guidance, and dedicated support in nurturing their advancement. This ethos stands as a bedrock in my journey, contributing significantly to my achievements.

5 What are the hotel's efforts in terms of sustainable practices?

A multitude of sustainable initiatives have been seamlessly integrated, notably the comprehensive adoption of solar power across our premises. Additionally, we've established an e-recharging zone, reflecting our dedication to environmentally conscious practices. This commitment extends to our sourcing approach, encompassing vegetables, meat, and dairy, fostering both economic savings and community well-being. LED lighting illuminates the entirety of the hotel, while water-saving mechanisms in rooms, public areas, and kitchens markedly curtail water wastage.

Moreover, our efforts extend to rainwater harvesting and optimized waste disposal practices, aligning harmoniously with the contemporary ethos of responsible stewardship. These measures resonate with the imperatives of a modern world, seamlessly merging sustainability with functionality.

6 Your advice to individuals who are aspiring to work in the hospitality industry, particularly in leadership roles like yours...

When evaluating prospective candidates for the hospitality sector, I emphasize two key qualities: genuine passion and the right attitude. These attributes, harmonized with an eagerness to learn and a proactive embrace of digitalization and technology, possess the capacity to foster a cadre of formidable leaders. Anchored in passion, the right attitude, and an insatiable appetite for knowledge, these foundational traits stand as my foremost considerations. In their confluence, lies the potential to nurture a reservoir of emerging leaders—leaders that the dynamic industry undeniably demands.


Pioneering Eco-Friendly Hospitality in the Land of Maharajas - Earthian Hotels & Resorts

Pioneering Eco-Friendly Hospitality in the Land of Maharajas - Earthian Hotels & Resorts

Admin

Published on July 3, 2024

In this exclusive interview, we connected with Rohit Pareek, Managing Director of Earthian Hotels & Resorts, to discuss the future of sustainable hospitality, cultural integration, the challenges he faces as a Managing Director, and more.

Rajasthan, the land of maharajas, majestic forts, and vibrant culture, now offers a unique hospitality experience that blends luxury with sustainability. Earthian Hotels N Resorts, a forward-thinking hospitality group, is redefining what it means to travel responsibly in this captivating region.

They offer spacious accommodations, impeccable service, and all the modern amenities you desire. But they go beyond mere indulgence. Here, luxury is redefined by respecting the environment and preserving the region's rich heritage.

Whether you crave the thrill of a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park or the serenity of ancient temples in Kumbhalgarh, Earthian ensures an authentic and enriching experience. The dedicated staff, with their passion for the region, will curate personalized itineraries that immerse you in Rajasthan's cultural treasures.

But Earthian's commitment extends beyond luxury and adventure. They actively support local communities and conservation efforts. Imagine participating in a pottery workshop led by local artisans or contributing to tree-planting initiatives. Earthian encourages guests to connect with the land and its people, fostering a sense of responsible tourism. 

How do you envision the future of sustainable hospitality, and what specific innovations do you see Earthian Hotels & Resorts pioneering in this field?

The future of sustainable hospitality hinges on crafting eco-friendly experiences that honor nature and local communities. At Earthian Hotels & Resorts, we lead by example, employing traditional building methods such as mud and lime mortar. Moreover, we integrate renewable energy sources to significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Our commitment extends to waste reduction initiatives and the promotion of biodiversity through organic farming and thoughtfully landscaped environments.

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How has your background as an engineer influenced your approach to hotel management and the design of eco-friendly resorts?

My engineering background enables me to think creatively and devise innovative solutions for sustainable design and operations. While I appreciate the skills taught in hospitality courses, my unique perspective allows me to tackle challenges differently, ensuring our resorts remain both eco-friendly and luxurious.

Can you share some unique experiences or amenities that guests can look forward to at the new resorts opening this year?

Guests can look forward to unique experiences at our resorts, such as staying in mud villas with open-to-sky showers, enjoying organic meals at our restaurants, and participating in cultural performances at our open-air stage. Each resort is designed to offer a deep connection with nature and local culture. Additionally, guests can savor homemade brownies, sip Hi-Tea under a tree prepared on a chulha, and enjoy chulha-made rotis, experiencing the true flavors of Rajasthan.

How do you integrate the rich culture of Rajasthan into the guest experience while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability?

We integrate Rajasthan’s rich culture by showcasing local arts and crafts, hosting traditional performances, and serving authentic cuisine. Around 70% of our staff comes from local villages, and we regularly train them to enhance their skills, ensuring an authentic and sustainable experience for our guests. This creates moments and experiences that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the true colors and culture of Rajasthan.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in creating sustainable resorts, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges is balancing luxury with sustainability. We overcome this by using eco-friendly materials and technologies without compromising on comfort. We also invest in continuous staff training and community engagement to foster a culture of sustainability.

Beyond the upcoming launches, what are your long-term plans for Earthian Hotels & Resorts, and how do you plan to expand the sustainability aspect further?

Our long-term plans include creating more experiential properties across different parts of Rajasthan and eventually expanding to other parts of the country. We aim to continuously improve our sustainability practices, collaborate with more local artisans, and introduce more green technologies to enhance our environmental impact.

How do you educate and engage guests about the importance of sustainability during their stay at your resorts?

We educate and engage guests through interactive workshops, eco-tours, and informative materials in their rooms. Our staff, trained in sustainability practices, also plays a crucial role in sharing knowledge and promoting eco-friendly behaviors among guests.

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In what ways do Earthian Hotels & Resorts contribute to the local communities in Rajasthan, and how do you ensure that your sustainability efforts positively impact these areas?

We contribute to local communities by providing employment opportunities and promoting local arts and crafts. By employing and training local villagers, we help uplift the community and preserve cultural heritage. Our sustainability efforts ensure that we not only minimize environmental impact but also create a positive social impact.


Ultimate Escape at The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie

Ultimate Escape at The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie

Admin

Published on July 3, 2024

In this exclusive interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with Arindam C Bahel, General Manager of The Fern Brentwood Resort in Mussoorie. We discussed his role as GM, culinary offerings at the resort, sustainable initiatives at the resort, and more.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan foothills, The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie, promises an escape unlike any other. This luxurious haven transcends the ordinary, offering discerning travelers a haven of comfort, adventure, and unparalleled vistas.
Imagine waking up to the gentle whispers of the mountain breeze, sunlight dappling through your window, and the majestic Doon Valley stretching out before you. The Fern Brentwood Resort isn't just a hotel; it's a portal to a world of serenity and rejuvenation.

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Beyond the stunning location, the resort boasts a plethora of amenities that cater to diverse interests. Unwind in the luxurious spa, indulge in delectable culinary experiences at the on-site restaurants, or take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool.  For those seeking adventure, the resort can arrange trekking expeditions, nature walks, or visits to nearby historical landmarks.

How has your background as a chef influenced the dining experience at The Fern Brentwood Resort?

Chefs are meticulous, consistent, and focused on quality. The Fern Brentwood resort’s dining experience features innovative themes and designs, high-quality food, and top-notch service. Our managers and the kitchen team regularly interact with guests to create personalized dining experiences. The culinary team receives ongoing training to maintain consistent excellence. This blend of creativity, expertise, and dedication results in a memorable and elevated dining experience for all guests.

What unique culinary experiences can guests expect when they dine at The Fern Mussoorie?
At The Fern Brentwood Resort, we are known for our themed festivals and pop-up events, as well as our excellent breakfast spread, which rivals the best food establishments in the city. We regularly host chefs from other states to ensure authentic flavors.

How do you balance luxury and sustainability in the operations of The Fern Brentwood Resort?

The Fern Hotels believes that luxury in hospitality must be environmentally sustainable. Alkaline drinking water, bottled in-house at our own plant, is a standard offering—making us one of the few hotels in the state to do so. Even the straws in our drinks are made of rice paper. Our napkins and toilet rolls, made from Bagasse (a by-product of sugarcane), are entirely paper-free. Additionally, our key cards are crafted from board, and our suite rooms feature bamboo supplies. We are constantly striving to achieve our goal of a zero-garbage hotel while providing top-class service to our guests.

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What initiatives has the resort implemented to promote environmental sustainability?

Introduction of Glass Bottles: We have replaced plastic bottles in guest rooms with safe and sanitized glass bottles filled with healthy alkaline water. This initiative helps us reduce the use of 60,000 plastic bottles annually.

Eco-Friendly Rice Straws: We have eliminated hazardous plastic and paper straws, opting for eco-friendly rice straws instead. These FSSAI-approved straws are a safe and sustainable alternative, significantly reducing single-use plastic and virgin paper consumption.

Natural Unbleached Napkins: Our F&B areas now use natural unbleached napkins made from 100% agro-fiber sourced from sugarcane waste, completely eliminating the need for paper towels.

Solar Water Heaters: By installing solar water heaters, we conserve electricity and provide alternative energy to heat water for room usage, saving approximately 80 to 100 units of electricity per day.

Rainwater Harvesting: We have created rainwater harvesting tanks with a capacity of 10 KL to promote water conservation within the hotel.

Herb Garden and Plantation: We have established a herb garden and increased plantation around the hotel to enhance the green cover.

Sustainable Guest Room Amenities: We have introduced sustainable and locally sourced amenities, such as bamboo toothbrushes and combs, as part of our guest room supplies, ensuring our commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Can you share a memorable guest experience that highlights the resort's commitment to hospitality?

Most of our guests commend our sustainable efforts, which is reflected in our rankings on TripAdvisor and other OTA channels.

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How do you ensure that The Fern Brentwood Resort stands out in the competitive hospitality market of Mussoorie?

Mussoorie, as a hill station, has limited resources. Today’s discerning travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, and as a brand, we have a significant role to play in this market. We are pioneers in environmental sensitivity, creating a niche with our slogan, “Hospitality with Responsibility.”

What future plans or expansions do you have for the resort to enhance the guest experience further?

Since this year, we have launched a series of cultural food shows called “Flavours of India,” where we host chefs and artists from different regions to promote Indian cuisine at our hotel. The recently concluded “Padharo mare Des” – Rajasthani festival received tremendous acclaim and was a resounding success. Our upcoming festival, starting on June 14th, will highlight “States on the streets.” Additionally, we are expanding our hotel services to include a Spa, enriching the guest experience.

How do you train and motivate your staff to maintain high standards of service and guest satisfaction?

During and post-COVID, attrition has posed the greatest challenge to our organization and the industry at large. To counteract this, we intensified our team engagement efforts and focused on local recruitment from institutes in Uttarakhand and the Garhwali community renowned for their hospitality. We’re proud to highlight that over 80% of our team comprises local residents.

Recognizing and reinforcing positive behaviors, our salary disbursements are scheduled from the 7th to the 1st of each month. We provide accommodations for all outstation employees and host a range of employee engagement activities such as “Movie of the Month,” induction walks, picnics, and the informal “Chai pe Charcha” sessions. Additionally, our new employee meetings include monthly trainee sessions with the GM.

New joiners participate in an “Induction Walk” with the GM, where they learn about the local flora, places of interest in Mussoorie, and the town’s historical significance. Our “Chai pe Charcha” sessions serve as icebreakers for new team members and provide a platform to address any concerns they may have. These initiatives have been instrumental in fostering a supportive and engaging work environment at our organization.


Beyond Safaris: Wild Whispers Designs Dream Journeys for Discerning Travelers in Kenya

Beyond Safaris: Wild Whispers Designs Dream Journeys for Discerning Travelers in Kenya

Admin

Published on July 3, 2024

In this exclusive interview, we sat down with Aman Shah, CEO of Wild Whispers, to discuss authentic cultural experiences, new markets, and more.

Wild Whispers isn’t just about safaris; it’s about crafting bespoke journeys that delve deep into the heart of Kenya's breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife heritage.

Led by a team of passionate travel specialists with a deep understanding of Kenya’s hidden gems, Wild Whispers curates itineraries that cater to your every desire. Whether you dream of witnessing the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara, tracking majestic gorillas in the mist-shrouded forests, or simply relaxing amidst the serenity of a private luxury retreat, Wild Whispers makes it a reality.

Beyond the breathtaking safaris, Wild Whispers unlocks the hidden gems of Kenya. Explore vibrant cities, immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions, or unwind in luxurious retreats that epitomize relaxation. The company’s meticulously selected network of partner resorts ensures you experience unparalleled hospitality throughout your journey.

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Imagine yourself embarking on a private guided safari, traversing vast plains teeming with majestic animals. Witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration, the heart-stopping thrill of a big cat encounter, or the gentle sway of giraffes against a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets.

What distinguishes your company from other Destination Management Companies in Kenya?

At Wild Whispers, our attention to detail, personalized service, and commitment to sustainability triumphs over the other destination management companies in the region. Offering a suite of luxury accommodations with signature resorts and tie-ups with the region’s best-in-class luxury excursion specialists, Wild Whispers is a preferred pick for travelers to Kenya eyeing for a calming, immersive and luxurious stay in Kenya. 

How do you incorporate authentic cultural experiences into your itineraries?

Community support across our destination management services is key to helping the guests engage with the cultural experiences of the locals. Hosting exclusive visits to the village, engaging in traditional ceremonies with the tribes, to exploring the expanse of the region with the locals, our itineraries offer  a lot of cultural experiences that one can soak in.

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What steps do you take to ensure respectful and meaningful interactions with local communities?

By adopting an inclusive approach, we aim to preserve the regional sanctity and ensure guests have mindful interactions with local communities. We provide in-depth guidance on the dos and don’ts to keep in mind while engaging in activities involving the local communities. The interactions are usually candid, and the locals are quite friendly. With each guest’s visit to the region, we see a new iteration of experiences.

What measures do you take to ensure the safety and security of your clients?

Wildlife-concentrated destinations certainly demand real-time safety and actionable contingent plans. Understanding dietary preferences in advance to having a healthcare professional available throughout the visitor’s stay, we are always at the forefront of upholding the guest's safety and security.  

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Are there any plans for expanding your services or entering new markets in the near future?

Kenya is a large market to serve, and it being the uncontested wildlife capital of the world, we look forward to including more activities through strategic relationships with luxury activity providers to offer a suite of experiences to our guests, ranging from Private Guided Safaris, Masai Mara Migration Tours, Bush Breakfasts, Photographic Safaris, Balloon Safaris, to Sundowners, Gorilla Trekking, Helicopter Safaris, and Luxury Retreats.

What new initiatives or projects are you currently working on?

Being deeply rooted in providing eco-conscious luxury safari experiences, we are working to reduce our carbon footprint by curating indulging activities that are eco-conscious. From bush breakfasts including more local seasonal ingredients and culinary varieties, to collaborating with eco-conscious luxury resorts within the region, our focus remains on contributing to the planet’s wellbeing, building strong communities, and the foremost of all – curating best-in-class luxury safari experiences for the guests.