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Published on June 3, 2024
In this exclusive interview, we sat down with Vikas Sharma, the Area General Manager who steers the helm of hospitality excellence at Courtyard by Marriott, Surat.
Vikas Sharma is an accomplished hospitality professional currently serving as the Area General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott in Surat. With over two decades of experience, Vikas excels in driving sales and enhancing profitability in competitive markets.
Vikas's career highlights include significant contributions to Gujarat JHM Hotels, part of Auro Hotels, and AURO University Facility Management. He has played a key role in major projects such as the Convention Centre, JW Marriott Surat, Golf Club, and Golf Course, collaborating with renowned entities like Smallwood Stewart, HBA-Hirsch Bedner Associates, and Troon.
Known for his strategic acumen and integrity, Vikas consistently surpasses budgetary targets while maintaining precise financial records. His self-motivation, resilience, and innovation have led to significant organizational success, including the opening of numerous full-service hotels across various cities over the past 25 years.
Currently based in Surat, Gujarat, Vikas continues to lead with excellence, driving his organization’s vision and setting new benchmarks in the hospitality industry.
What strategies would you implement to enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty within the competitive hospitality market of Surat?
At Courtyard By Marriott Surat, our strategy for enhancing guest satisfaction and fostering loyalty in Surat's competitive hospitality market is focused on personalized experiences, exceptional service, and community engagement.
We prioritize personalized guest experiences by understanding individual preferences through robust profiling systems, ensuring every interaction is tailored to their needs.
Exceptional service is fundamental to our identity. We invest in training programs to empower our staff to exceed guest expectations, creating memorable moments at every touchpoint.
Seamless booking and check-in processes, along with diverse culinary options, further elevate the guest experience, while loyalty programs offer exclusive benefits and rewards.
Feedback mechanisms are in place to continuously improve, and we actively engage with the Surat community through partnerships and sustainable practices, reflecting our commitment to being more than just a hotel.
In essence, at Courtyard By Marriott Surat, we aim to create exceptional experiences that inspire loyalty, making us the preferred choice for travelers seeking unforgettable moments in Surat's hospitality landscape.
How do you prioritize and allocate resources effectively to ensure the smooth operation of various departments within the hotel?
At Courtyard By Marriott Surat, our approach to resource allocation revolves around understanding departmental needs, fostering collaboration, and maintaining flexibility. We start by listening to our team members and managers to gain insights into their requirements. From there, we work together to develop comprehensive plans that consider budget constraints, staffing levels, and upcoming projects. Communication is key, as we encourage open dialogue between departments to ensure resources are utilized effectively. Regular monitoring of performance allows us to adjust as needed, while investing in training and development ensures our team is equipped to maximize resources. Ultimately, our goal is to create a seamless operation that delivers exceptional experiences for both guests and staff, positioning Courtyard By Marriott Surat as a preferred choice in the competitive hospitality market.
In what ways do you foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration among staff members to achieve operational excellence?
At Courtyard By Marriott Surat, nurturing a culture of teamwork and collaboration is foundational to our operational excellence. We prioritize open communication, encouraging dialogue and idea-sharing across all levels of the organization through regular meetings and feedback sessions. Our shared goals and vision unite staff towards a common purpose, fostering a sense of belonging and commitment. We actively promote cross-departmental collaboration, breaking down silos to leverage diverse expertise and perspectives. Recognizing and appreciating team efforts are integral; we celebrate achievements and individual contributions, fostering motivation and morale. Investing in training and development programs further strengthens teamwork, with initiatives focused on communication, conflict resolution, and leadership skills. Leadership sets the tone by exemplifying collaborative behaviours, inspiring staff to work together effectively. Through these efforts, we cultivate an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered, driving operational excellence and delivering exceptional experiences at Courtyard By Marriott Surat.
How do you stay updated with industry trends and incorporate innovative practices to drive revenue growth and profitability?
We prioritize staying ahead of industry trends and embracing innovative practices to drive revenue growth and profitability. To achieve this, we're deeply engaged with the pulse of the hospitality sector. We regularly connect with industry peers, attend conferences, and participate in forums to exchange insights and gather inspiration. Additionally, we keep a keen eye on technological advancements relevant to our field, leveraging tools and platforms that enhance guest experiences and streamline operations. Our team members are encouraged to contribute ideas and experiment with new approaches, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. By staying informed, collaborative, and adaptable, we ensure that Courtyard By Marriott Surat remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry, delivering exceptional experiences and driving sustainable growth.
Describe your approach to developing and executing a comprehensive sale and marketing strategy to attract both corporate and leisure guests to the hotel.
Our sales and marketing strategy aims to attract both corporate and leisure guests through a comprehensive approach. For corporate guests, we emphasize our modern facilities and business-friendly amenities, leveraging partnerships and customized packages. Leisure guests are enticed by our luxurious accommodations, culinary offerings, and recreational facilities, promoted through targeted campaigns and partnerships. Collaboration between sales and marketing teams ensures alignment and effectiveness in messaging and execution. We prioritize guest satisfaction and loyalty, delivering personalized experiences to encourage repeat visits and positive referrals. Continuous monitoring of market trends and guest feedback informs our strategy adjustments, ensuring agility and responsiveness to evolving needs. Our goal is to create a compelling value proposition that resonates with both segments, driving occupancy rates, revenue growth, and maintaining Courtyard By Marriott Surat's reputation as a premier hospitality destination.
How do you effectively manage and mitigate operational risks, such as security concerns, health and safety regulations, and environmental sustainability, within the property?
At Courtyard By Marriott Surat, ensuring the safety, security, and sustainability of our operations is a top priority. We take a proactive and comprehensive approach to manage and mitigate operational risks effectively.
First and foremost, we prioritize the safety and security of our guests and staff. Our property is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, including surveillance cameras and access control measures. Trained security personnel are on duty 24/7 to monitor and respond to any potential threats or incidents.
In terms of health and safety, we strictly adhere to all regulations and guidelines set forth by local authorities and Marriott International standards. This includes rigorous cleaning and sanitation protocols, staff training on safety procedures, and regular inspections to ensure compliance.
Environmental sustainability is also a key focus area for us. We have implemented various initiatives to minimize our environmental impact, such as energy-saving measures, waste reduction programs, and the use of eco-friendly products and materials. Our goal is to promote sustainability awareness among both guests and staff, encouraging everyone to contribute to our environmental efforts.
What's your favorite aspect of working in the hospitality industry, and how does it motivate you in your role as the Area General Manager?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of working in the hospitality industry is the opportunity to interact with guests from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Every interaction presents a chance to learn something new and gain insights into different perspectives.
Engaging with guests allows me to hear their stories, learn about their travels, and understand their unique experiences. Whether it's a family on vacation, a business traveler attending a conference, or a couple celebrating a special occasion, each guest has their own story to share.
Meeting people from around the world is incredibly enriching. It's fascinating to hear about their home countries, traditions, and customs. These interactions not only broaden my understanding of different cultures but also foster a sense of connection and camaraderie.
This Interview is Published Exclusively on hospitalitynews.in.
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Published on September 1, 2025
In today’s world of hospitality, where loyalty programs are often defined by free nights, discounts, and upgrades, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group has chosen a different path, one that blends guest rewards with social good. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Vivek Shukla, CEO of the Group, offered rare insights into how luxury and purpose can converge to create a new standard for the industry.
With more than 35 years in luxury hospitality and two decades shaping The LaLiT’s vision, Shukla is widely known for his people-first approach and strategic foresight. His leadership during the pandemic, marked by initiatives that supported frontline workers and vulnerable communities, underscored his conviction that hospitality is about much more than service, it is about responsibility.
This ethos is at the heart of the Group’s new loyalty program. Unlike traditional models, this initiative empowers guests to transform everyday indulgences into acts of giving. Partnering with Points for Good, The LaLiT allows loyalty members to channel their points towards diverse causes ranging from child education and sustainability to LGBTQIA+ empowerment. Shukla describes it as a shift “from transactional exchanges to purposeful, meaningful connections”.
The innovation lies in embedding impact seamlessly into daily guest interactions. Shukla believes that over time, members will begin to associate loyalty not only with luxury but also with generosity and social change. “When routine stays or meals become part of something greater, it fosters a culture of care and giving back”, he says.
Perhaps most compelling is the vision behind it: small contributions from thousands of guests, collectively sparking a wave of impact across India. By aligning hospitality with social responsibility, The LaLiT is rewriting the future of loyalty, one that is not just about repeat business but about emotional connection and shared purpose.
Our conversation with Vivek Shukla was both inspiring and thought-provoking, challenging the industry to see loyalty in a whole new light. For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine September Edition- available now on our website and in print. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative dialogue shaping the future of hospitality.
In an era where unpredictability has become the only constant in travel and hospitality, few voices carry the weight of experience, foresight, and innovation like Dr. Anshu Jalora, Founder and Managing Director of Sciative Solutions. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Dr. Jalora shared sharp insights on how technology, behavioral economics, and AI-driven pricing are rewriting the rules of hotel revenue management.
With over 23 years of global expertise, stints at Starbucks, Overstock.com, and PROS Revenue Management, and a patent in pricing software, Dr. Jalora is not only a leader but a pioneer. His ability to bridge the precision of academia with the dynamism of the hospitality market makes his perspectives especially compelling.
When asked about this year’s unexpected monsoon surge in travel demand, Dr. Jalora explained how AI-powered systems like ZettaRMS can detect weather shifts, booking pace, and competitor rates in real time allowing hotels not just to react, but to stay ahead of market waves. The difference, he notes, lies in “explainability,” enabling revenue managers to understand why pricing shifts occur while preserving guest trust.
What followed was a fascinating look into the speed of pricing decisions. With ZettaRMS updating rates every 15 minutes, Dr. Jalora emphasized how short-lived surges can now be monetized with precision, often lifting ADRs by 4–5% in ways static pricing could never achieve. His revelations about post-pandemic booking patterns in India last-minute clusters, OTA user behaviors, and the surprising profitability of “shoulder nights” offered a rare, data-driven lens into the evolving market.
From tackling OTA leakage with parity checks to preparing hotels for the unpredictable, Dr. Jalora stressed one recurring theme: context-specific pricing is the future. The hotels that adapt in real time will not only safeguard revenues but thrive in an increasingly volatile market.
It was a truly insightful conversation with Dr. Jalora, one that promises to reshape how we think about pricing in hospitality.
Want More? You can explore the full in-depth interview and exclusive coverage in the September edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, available both on our website and as a beautifully curated print magazine. Don’t miss your chance to engage with the future of hospitality, one conversation at a time.
At the heart of ITC Grand Chola, one of Chennai’s most iconic star hotels, a frozen dream has been delighting the city. Yura, the artisanal gelato and sorbet destination, has quickly become a favourite among dessert lovers for its blend of nostalgia, innovation, and culinary artistry. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Shaariq Akhtar, General Manager of ITC Grand Chola, shared insights into Yura’s journey, its inspirations, and the philosophy behind its one-of-a-kind creations.
Shaariq describes Yura as more than just gelato. For him, it is the realisation of “a beautiful dream”, a place where childhood memories and sensory indulgence meet. This philosophy is at the heart of Yura’s handcrafted flavours, whether it’s the ethereal balance of Miso Caramel, the gold-touched elegance of Idukki Vanilla, or the playful indulgence of Filter Kaapi and Rose & Paan. Each flavour tells a story, designed to surprise and comfort at the same time.
What makes Yura stand apart is its ability to balance bold creativity with the warmth of familiarity. In a country where traditional sweets are deeply loved, Yura offers reinterpretations that spark nostalgia in a new form. Whether it’s Aam Papad Gelato or French Raspberry Sorbet, the intent remains the same, to bring people closer to cherished memories, now served in scoops of artisanal perfection.
Shaariq also spoke about the painstaking process of creating new flavours, from the very first spark of inspiration to the final tasting session. Each step is guided by the idea that every scoop should stir emotions and leave behind an unforgettable experience. Sustainability too lies at the core, with Yura relying on mindful sourcing and renewable energy, ensuring that indulgence remains both luxurious and responsible.
Our conversation with Shaariq revealed that Yura is more than a frozen treat, it’s an experience of comfort, wonder, and artistry. Every scoop tells a story, waiting to be discovered.
It was truly a delightful conversation with him, and to read the complete interview, you can check out the September edition of Hospitalitynews Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy today.
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