The Strategic Procurement Mindset: Sara's Journey in Hospitality Management

The Strategic Procurement Mindset: Sara's Journey in Hospitality Management

Admin

Published on March 4, 2024

Explore Sara's journey through the evolving landscape of hospitality procurement, where her strategic mindset and leadership have fostered growth and sustainability.

We are honoured to feature Sara in this edition of our magazine, a seasoned professional who has made significant contributions to the field of procurement and supply chain management within the hospitality industry. Currently serving as the Purchase Manager for Suba Group of Hotels, Sara has been instrumental in overseeing all operational and project-related procurement activities since 2015, in collaboration with her esteemed colleagues, Mr. Pradeep Dubey and Mr. Majaz. Boasting an impressive tenure of over 15 years in supply chain management, Sara's journey began in Chiplun, where she completed her education with a diploma in electronics. Her transition to Suba Group marked a pivotal moment in her career, providing her with the opportunity to further her education in the management stream. Presently, Sara is pursuing an MBA in Supply Chain Management, underscoring her commitment to professional growth and excellence in her field. Her insights and experiences are sure to enrich our understanding of the intricacies of procurement and supply chain management in the hospitality sector.

Can you provide an overview of your experience in procurement and supply chain management, particularly within the hospitality industry?

My journey in procurement and supply chain management has been thoroughly enriching and educational. The dynamic nature of procurement offers a continuous learning opportunity, as predicting vendor behaviour during negotiations remains a complex challenge. Transitioning from the manufacturing sector to the hospitality industry in 2015, I embarked on this path as a novice. Since then, I have dedicated myself to acquiring new knowledge daily. Participating in sessions such as this Q&A is also part of my learning process. In the hospitality industry, the roles of procurement and supply chain management are vital for the seamless functioning of hotels, restaurants, and similar establishments. Key areas of focus for me have been vendor management, inventory control, and cost optimization.

As the Purchase Manager at Suba Group of Hotels, what initiatives do you employ to ensure timely and cost-effective procurement of goods and services while maintaining quality standards?

My approach involves a multitude of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing our procurement operations, always in collaboration with my team. These strategies encompass Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), centralising purchases for branding purposes, implementing new technologies or software, and engaging in forecast planning complemented by systematic logistics. Whether it pertains to operational or project-based purchases, our priority remains on sustainability and quality assurance. For instance, ensuring the consistent quality of amenities across all properties, regardless of variations in local vendors, exemplifies our commitment to maintaining high standards.

How do you approach vendor selection and management to ensure strong partnerships and reliable supply chains for the hotels under the Suba Group?

Vendor selection and management are critical to fostering strong, reliable partnerships and ensuring a dependable supply chain for the Suba Group. Our criteria for vendor selection are based on their historical performance, capability, and product or service knowledge. Principles such as regular communication, transparency, and a mutual commitment to continuous improvement guide our vendor relationships. For example, when upgrading our CCTV systems from SD to HD in our Mumbai properties, we opted to continue with our existing trusted vendor, emphasising the importance of trust, security, and accountability over exploring new vendor relationships.

Suba Group likely operates multiple hotels with diverse needs. How do you prioritise and coordinate purchasing activities to meet the unique requirements of each property?

Prioritisation and coordination of purchasing activities begin with a comprehensive analysis of each property's specific needs, considering factors such as location, environment, and logistics. I maintain regular communication with local store personnel, leveraging a mix of centralised and decentralised purchasing strategies to address the diverse needs effectively. For example, to minimise transport costs and breakage risks, we source fragile items like tea and coffee mugs locally, demonstrating our adaptability and strategic planning in procurement practices.

As a woman in a leadership role within the hospitality industry, what achievements are you most proud of, and how have they contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Transitioning from the manufacturing sector to a service-oriented industry presented a significant learning curve. The faith my supervisor, Mr. Mansur Mehta, placed in me to navigate this transition has been instrumental in my growth. Over nearly a decade in supply chain management, I've observed the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within this field. Successfully leading new building projects and managing teams of contractors and vendors has not only been a source of professional pride but has also highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion in leadership roles.

Collaboration with other departments, such as operations and finance, is crucial in procurement. How do you ensure alignment and communication to meet the overall goals and objectives of Suba Group?

Effective collaboration hinges on maintaining clear and consistent communication across all departments. By ensuring smooth operations in invoicing, payment follow-ups, and purchase order management, we foster a cohesive environment. My role as a coordinator is vital as the Suba Group expands, necessitating seamless interaction with accounts, stores, and operational teams across properties. Mastery in communication, whether through emails, WhatsApp, or Zoom meetings, is essential for aligning our procurement objectives with the broader organizational goals.

In a rapidly changing industry, how do you stay informed about market trends, supplier capabilities, and technological advancements to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement processes within Suba Group of Hotels?

Staying abreast of industry developments is a priority for me, achieved through attending relevant exhibitions, conducting market research, and fostering new vendor relationships. Analysing past purchase data, engaging with vendors, and participating in vendor meetings are key components of our strategy. Soliciting feedback from end-users post-implementation and monitoring vendor performance are critical for enhancing our procurement processes' efficiency and effectiveness.

Women's Day is a celebration of women's achievements and contributions to society. Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of women in leadership roles within the hospitality industry, and how do you envision continuing to make an impact in your role at Suba Group of Hotels?

As a female Purchase Manager, I anticipate and currently experience equal opportunities for leadership within my organisation, which upholds a culture of respect and equality regardless of gender. Nonetheless, I recognize the challenges women often face, particularly in balancing professional opportunities with family and childcare responsibilities. Overcoming these barriers requires a commitment to skill enhancement, higher education, and effective family management. It's imperative that organisations support gender equality, empowering women to pursue leadership roles unencumbered. As we celebrate Women's Day, my aspiration is for continued progress towards gender parity in leadership within the hospitality industry and beyond.

This Interview is Published Exclusively in HospitalityNews.in.


Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Chef Altamsh Patel

Published on October 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations.

When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared.

Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture.

Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable.

On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining.

As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining.

It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.


Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

Dr Suborno Bose

Published on October 1, 2025

In a world where hospitality is constantly reshaped by technology and global collaboration, few voices carry as much authority and vision as Dr. Suborno Bose, the Founder-Chairman and Chief Mentor of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) and Indismart Group Worldwide. Over the last 25 years, he has established Asia’s largest chain of premier hotel schools with campuses across the globe, while spearheading innovations that redefine the very essence of hospitality education.

In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, Dr. Bose takes us through a riveting journey of ideas and insights. He reveals how AI-powered platforms like NamAIste – IIHM HospitalityGPT, the world’s first AI model for the service sector, are reshaping the way students learn, blending technology with empathy to create leaders who are both digitally fluent and emotionally intelligent.

Adding to this, he speaks passionately about the Global Knowledge Sharing Declaration on AI in Hospitality, which began with 50 countries and now includes over 60 nations. This initiative, driven by IIHM, has created a collaborative framework for integrating AI literacy, ethical practices, and equal access to education worldwide.

As the conversation deepens, Dr. Bose introduces us to his philosophy of “High Tech, Higher Touch,” a principle that balances cutting-edge digital tools with the timeless warmth of human connection. He emphasizes that while AI can anticipate preferences and streamline service, true hospitality lies in the smiles, gestures, and conversations that make every experience memorable.

From the International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) to initiatives like the Food Soldier programme, Dr. Bose continues to nurture global talent while embedding sustainability, cultural respect, and innovation at the core of hospitality. His long-term vision is clear: to position India as a hub for compassionate, intelligent, and inclusive hospitality leadership.

This inspiring exchange with Dr. Bose is more than an interview, it is a window into the future of hospitality, where technology and empathy walk hand in hand.

For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine October 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.


Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

Vivek Shukla

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.