The Clarion Hotel Approach to Hospitality Excellence

Admin

Published on March 4, 2024

Join us in exploring the scenes behind the Clarion Hotel's exceptional sales strategies and unparalleled guest experiences, where every detail is meticulously crafted to exceed expectations and foster long-term loyalty.

Reena Tomar is a seasoned Sales Manager with over five years of experience in the hospitality industry. Currently serving as a Sales Manager at Clarks Collection in Dehradun since July 2021, she is responsible for driving sales and revenue growth. Prior to this role, Reena held positions of increasing responsibility, including Manager - Sales & Marketing at V One Pride Premnager, where she honed her skills in sales strategy and marketing management from July 2020 to July 2021. With a strong foundation in sales, she previously served as Asst. Sales Manager at V One Hotel - The Competent Palace, gaining valuable experience in client relationship management and team leadership from November 2018 to March 2020. Reena's career journey began as an Executive - Banquet Sales at Regenta lp Vilas By Royal Orchid and later as a Sr. Banquet Sales Executive at Hotel Saffron Leaf, where she demonstrated her aptitude for sales and customer service. Her diverse background in sales and marketing equips her with the expertise to thrive in dynamic and challenging environments.

Can you describe your experience in the hospitality industry and how it has prepared you for the role of Sales Manager at Clarion Hotel?

With over a decade in hospitality, I've handled everything from guest services to sales. My experience has fine-tuned my people skills, setting me up nicely for the Sales Manager role at Clarion Hotel, where I aim to leverage my expertise to cultivate strategic partnerships and exceed sales targets.

What strategies have you found most effective in generating leads and driving sales within the hospitality sector, particularly in the Dehradun market?

For the Dehradun market, I've discovered that hosting exclusive events and networking opportunities, leveraging customer referrals, and offering enticing loyalty programs are powerful strategies for generating leads and boosting sales in the hospitality sector. By creating memorable experiences, nurturing relationships, and rewarding repeat businesses, we can cultivate a loyal customer base and stay ahead in this competitive landscape.

How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with clients and partners to ensure repeat business and foster long-term loyalty?

Well, I prioritize building genuine connections by actively listening to clients' needs, delivering exceptional service, and consistently exceeding expectations. Additionally, I actively seek out opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth, demonstrating our commitment to long-term partnerships and ensuring our clients and partners feel valued and appreciated.

Clarion Hotel likely caters to a diverse range of guests and events. Can you discuss how you tailor your sales approach to meet the specific needs and preferences of different client demographics?

Absolutely! Understanding the unique needs and preferences of diverse client demographics is key. By customizing our offerings and communication to align with the priorities of each demographic, we ensure a tailored and memorable experience that resonates with our guests, fostering satisfaction and loyalty.

In a competitive market like Dehradun, how do you differentiate Clarion Hotel's offerings and effectively communicate its unique value proposition to potential clients?

In Dehradun's competitive market, Clarion Hotel stands out by emphasizing our unique blend of luxurious amenities, personalized service, and convenient location. Through targeted marketing campaigns, we highlight our distinct features such as spacious accommodations, world-class dining options, and comprehensive event facilities. By effectively communicating these key differentiators, we ensure potential clients recognize the unparalleled value proposition Clarion Hotel offers in the market.

Can you share an example of a successful sales campaign or initiative you led that significantly contributed to revenue growth or business expansion?

I led a successful corporate partnership initiative, offering exclusive discounts to conference attendees and forging preferred vendor relationships. This not only secured steady business but also expanded our network and brand visibility. The result was significant revenue growth and establishing us as the top choice for business travelers in the region.

Collaboration between sales and other departments, such as marketing and operations, is crucial in a hotel setting. How do you ensure alignment and synergy between these departments to achieve common goals?

To ensure alignment and synergy between sales, marketing, and operations, I prioritize open communication and cross-departmental collaboration. Regular meetings and shared goal-setting sessions help us align our strategies and priorities. Additionally, fostering a culture of mutual support and transparency enables us to leverage each department's strengths effectively, driving towards our common objectives of guest satisfaction and revenue growth.

Lastly, in a dynamic industry like hospitality, adaptability is key. How do you stay updated on industry trends and adjust your sales strategies accordingly to remain competitive?

In the fast-paced hospitality industry, I prioritize staying updated on industry trends through continuous research, networking with industry professionals, and attending relevant workshops and conferences. By closely monitoring market shifts and gathering insights from customer feedback, I ensure our sales strategies remain dynamic and responsive to changing demands, enabling us to maintain our competitive edge in the market.

This Interview is Exclusively Published in HospitalityNews.in.

Chef Vijay Pandey Talks Technology, Tradition, and the Future of Food Delivery

Vijay Pandey

Published on May 1, 2025

Chef Vijay Pandey is not your typical chef. With roots in five-star hospitality and global culinary experiences, he now helms the kitchen innovation at Rebel Foods, India’s leading cloud kitchen network. As the Corporate Chef, he is the creative force behind multi-brand strategies that serve millions of customers every month.

“Each phase of my journey—luxury hotels, cruise liners, flight kitchens—taught me the value of precision, consistency, and authenticity,” shares Chef Vijay. These diverse experiences have equipped him to lead in the fast-paced world of food tech. At Rebel Foods, his mission is clear: deliver restaurant-quality meals at scale, without losing flavor or soul.

With a portfolio that spans everything from Indian classics to international flavors, Chef Vijay ensures every brand under Rebel Foods retains its unique identity. “Every dish goes through rigorous R&D, pilot tests, and customer feedback loops. That’s how we maintain authenticity while pushing culinary boundaries,” he explains.

His global exposure has played a key role in shaping today's menus. He’s excited by the rise of fusion cuisine and personalized dining. “Consumers now crave stories on their plate—Korean burgers with Indian spices, or Mediterranean flavors with local ingredients. We’re here to make that happen,” he says.

Behind the scenes, it's a blend of tech and taste. AI-powered tools help optimize recipes and predict trends, but the heart of innovation still lies with the chefs. “Technology brings scale and efficiency, but it’s the human touch that brings flavor and emotion,” he adds.

When it comes to delivery, every element is engineered—from packaging to plating—to ensure meals retain their restaurant appeal. “Recipe engineering and constant feedback are key,” he explains, adding that real-time data from over 350 kitchens help maintain quality at every touchpoint.

A strong advocate for wellness and mindful eating, Chef Vijay brings his passion for yoga into the culinary world. “We prioritize clean ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and balanced meals. Good food should nourish the body and the spirit,” he says.

From pioneering Lebanese menus at Manchester United Café Bar to building Faasos’ iconic burger wraps, Chef Vijay’s journey reflects creativity grounded in operational expertise. But perhaps his proudest achievement is shaping the future of food delivery in India—one bold flavor at a time.

Hungry for more insights from India’s top culinary leaders? Stay tuned to HospitalityNews by GuestVento for inspiring stories, industry innovations, and behind-the-kitchen moments that shape the future of food. Visit our website to read the full May edition, and direct message us for physical copies.

Redefining Travel: Exclusive Insights with Jyoti Mayal

Jyoti Mayal

Published on May 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature for HospitalityNews' May Edition, we had the privilege of engaging in a compelling conversation with Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), and one of the most respected voices in India's tourism industry. With decades of experience and a keen eye on global trends, Jyoti Mayal brings a wealth of knowledge to the table—touching upon everything from eco-tourism to digital transformation in travel.

Her insights are not only eye-opening but also signal the emerging priorities of Indian travellers and how the industry must evolve to meet them. From discussing how tourism boards are crafting immersive experiences tailored to Indian preferences, to highlighting India's rising status in medical tourism, every part of the conversation offered a deeper look into the rapidly changing world of travel.

She begins by sharing how Indian travellers have moved beyond the conventional. “Indian travelers today are more informed, curious, and experience-driven than ever before…” This evolving mindset, she says, is driving demand for personalization and pushing agencies to elevate their offerings.

Further in the discussion, she emphasizes the meaningful collaborations between international tourism boards and Indian travel professionals. She reveals how these partnerships are building cultural bridges and setting new standards in hospitality.

On India’s leadership in medical tourism, Mayal proudly notes the impact of the Heal in India initiative and how the THSC is playing a transformative role in creating a skilled and empathetic ecosystem.

From sustainability in wildlife tourism to seamless international travel experiences and AI-driven travel planning, her observations are a masterclass in future-focused thinking.

This enlightening conversation with Jyoti Mayal is a must-read for industry leaders, aspiring travel professionals, and anyone interested in where Indian tourism is headed.

Catch the complete interview in the May edition of Hospitality News, available on our website. You can also get a physical copy to keep this enriching feature in your collection. It was truly a great conversation—one that sheds light on the vision, strategy, and heart behind India’s travel transformation.

The Untold Stories of Sri Lanka: Suchitra Aluwihare’s Approach to Immersive Travel

Suchitra Aluwihare

Published on May 1, 2025

With a career spanning over 20 years in Sri Lanka’s vibrant travel and tourism industry, Suchitra Aluwihare stands at the forefront of redefining destination management. As the Chief Operating Officer of Hayleys Travels, one of Sri Lanka’s leading travel solutions providers, Mr. Aluwihare has played a vital role in shaping curated travel experiences that go beyond traditional tourism.

In this exclusive feature for HospitalityNews by GuestVento, Suchitra shares how Hayleys Travels combines technology, local expertise, and sustainability to craft journeys that are deeply personal and impactful. From immersive wildlife encounters to wellness-focused itineraries, the company’s unique offerings reflect a deep understanding of modern traveler preferences.

Under Mr. Aluwihare’s guidance, Hayleys has embraced responsible tourism as a core philosophy. From reforestation and marine conservation to partnering with local artisans and community-driven experiences, the goal is to ensure that every trip benefits both the traveler and the destination. His belief that “every journey should leave a positive footprint” drives much of the brand’s innovation.

The conversation also touches on Sri Lanka’s lesser-known destinations—from boat safaris in Gal Oya to dolphin watching in Kalpitiya—reminding readers that the island’s real magic often lies off the beaten path. Mr. Aluwihare’s passion for showcasing Sri Lanka’s hidden gems is matched only by his commitment to preserving them for future generations.

Want to know what sets Hayleys apart in a crowded market? Curious about how tech is shaping sustainable travel? Read the full interview with Suchitra Aluwihare in the latest May edition of HospitalityNews by GuestVento.

Head to our website to read the full e-magazine and DM us for physical copies!