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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.
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Published on July 1, 2026
Luxury hospitality continues to evolve, and the most successful destinations are those that seamlessly blend innovation with authenticity. In the latest edition of Hospitality News, we bring you an exclusive conversation with Anand Nair, General Manager of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, who shares the vision, leadership, and guest-centric philosophy that have shaped one of the region's most distinguished luxury resorts.
Since taking over the leadership of the property, Anand Nair has guided the resort through a remarkable transformation, redefining luxury while preserving the cultural heritage and coastal charm of Mahabalipuram. In this engaging feature, he offers valuable insights into how thoughtful innovation, personalised hospitality, and meaningful guest experiences continue to elevate the resort's reputation.
The conversation explores the inspiration behind the property's comprehensive reimagination, highlighting how refreshed accommodations, redesigned public spaces, enhanced dining venues, and curated recreational experiences have created a destination that resonates with today's discerning travellers. Readers will also gain a deeper understanding of how every aspect of the guest journey has been carefully designed to deliver memorable moments through personalised service and exceptional hospitality.
Anand Nair further discusses the resort's diverse offerings, from grand celebrations at the Vaibhava Ballroom and picturesque Beach Lawns to its distinctive culinary destinations, each delivering unique experiences for guests. He also shares how the resort celebrates Mahabalipuram's rich cultural and coastal identity while complementing Chennai's growing stature as a leading business and leisure destination.
Another compelling aspect of the discussion focuses on the future of hospitality, where authenticity, sustainability, wellness, and innovation are becoming increasingly important. Anand Nair also reflects on his personal philosophy of hospitality, explaining why making every guest feel genuinely valued remains the foundation of exceptional service.
This exclusive feature offers hospitality professionals, industry leaders, and travel enthusiasts an opportunity to discover the vision behind a resort that continues to redefine luxury through meaningful experiences and heartfelt service.
It was a truly insightful conversation with Anand Nair, whose perspectives highlight the evolving future of luxury hospitality and guest experiences. To read the complete interview and explore every valuable insight shared during this engaging discussion, visit the Hospitality News July Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy of the magazine.
Every successful hotel has a story, and behind every remarkable guest experience is a leader who understands that hospitality is built on people, passion, and purpose. In the latest edition of Hospitality News, we had the privilege of featuring Vinod Kumar, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Thrissur, in an insightful conversation that explores the principles driving one of Kerala's leading luxury hospitality destinations.
With years of experience across diverse hotel markets, Vinod Kumar shares how resilience, trust, and empowering teams have shaped his leadership philosophy. Throughout the conversation, he offers valuable perspectives on what it takes to create memorable guest experiences in an increasingly competitive hospitality landscape.
The interview goes beyond leadership to uncover how Hyatt Regency Thrissur continues to distinguish itself through personalized service, authentic Kerala experiences, culinary excellence, and an unwavering commitment to exceeding guest expectations. Readers will also discover his views on the growing opportunities for premium hotels in tier-2 cities, the rising demand for destination weddings, and why cultural destinations like Thrissur are becoming increasingly attractive to both leisure and business travellers.
One of the most engaging parts of the discussion revolves around balancing technology with genuine human connection. Vinod Kumar explains how innovation should complement, not replace the warmth and personalized interactions that define exceptional hospitality. He also addresses the industry's evolving challenges, including changing guest expectations, talent retention, sustainability, operational efficiency, and the importance of continuous innovation.
The conversation further highlights what makes Hyatt Regency Thrissur a preferred venue for grand destination weddings, showcasing its expansive event spaces, personalized celebrations, curated culinary experiences, and dedicated planning expertise that transform every occasion into an unforgettable celebration.
This exclusive feature offers hospitality professionals, industry leaders, aspiring hoteliers, and travel enthusiasts an opportunity to gain meaningful insights from a seasoned leader who continues to shape guest experiences with vision and excellence.
It was truly a pleasure speaking with Vinod Kumar and learning about the strategies, values, and experiences that continue to strengthen Hyatt Regency Thrissur's position in the hospitality industry. To read the complete interview and explore every insight shared during this engaging conversation, visit the Hospitality News July Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy of the magazine.
As India's hospitality sector enters a new phase of growth, success is increasingly being driven by visionary leadership, strategic investments, and a long-term approach to asset creation. In the latest edition of Hospitality News, we feature an exclusive conversation with Rayan Aranha, Vice President of Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited (BHVL), who shares valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of India's branded hospitality landscape and the company's vision for sustainable growth.
With an impressive career spanning renowned hospitality brands and extensive expertise in operations, financial planning, and hotel asset management, Rayan Aranha offers readers a comprehensive perspective on how the industry is transforming beyond traditional hotel operations. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on his leadership journey, highlighting how the transition from managing hotels to building a scalable hospitality platform has shaped his strategic outlook.
The interview explores the importance of organisational culture in creating consistent guest experiences while empowering teams across diverse hotel portfolios. Rayan also explains how BHVL differentiates itself through a disciplined owner-led approach, strong partnerships with leading global hospitality brands, and a clear focus on long-term asset value rather than short-term expansion.
Readers will also discover his views on the growing role of technology in enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and enabling more personalised hospitality. Equally compelling is his discussion on the financial metrics that drive decision-making, including revenue optimisation, profitability, operational discipline, and sustainable performance across the company's expanding portfolio.
The conversation further examines the increasing convergence between real estate and hospitality, revealing how integrated developments are creating new opportunities for the sector. Rayan also shares BHVL's roadmap for future expansion, outlining the company's plans to strengthen its presence across South India while exploring emerging Tier-II markets through a disciplined mix of greenfield and brownfield developments.
This exclusive feature offers hospitality professionals, investors, hotel owners, and business leaders an opportunity to gain valuable insights into the strategic thinking behind one of India's leading hospitality asset owners and developers.
It was a truly enriching conversation with Rayan Aranha, whose perspectives provide a deeper understanding of the evolving hospitality landscape and the future of asset-led growth in India. To read the complete interview and explore every insight shared during this engaging discussion, visit the Hospitality News July Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy of the magazine.
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