Pooja Ray is a dynamic leader in India’s luxury and heritage hospitality, combining a passion for service excellence with a deep commitment to sustainability, cultural authenticity, and immersive experiences. As Managing Director of MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, she has positioned the brand as a hallmark of refined luxury, where every property reflects local heritage, architecture, and environment, while offering world-class comfort and personalized service.
Born into a family of reputed hoteliers in Kolkata, Ray’s formative years were shaped by experiences in Kolkata, Dehradun, and London. After marrying renowned hotelier Dilip Ray, she contributed significantly to hotel operations, bringing a sharp eye for detail and an instinctive understanding of customer priorities and functional aesthetics.
Strategic Growth with Purpose
Under her stewardship, MAYFAIR has expanded significantly, with 18 properties across India, each known for its distinctive blend of culture and luxury. Growth at MAYFAIR has always prioritized quality over scale.
A Living Museum of Art and Heritage
The group has earned a reputation as a “living museum of art and heritage,” curating one of Indian hospitality’s largest private collections with 42,000 artworks, 8,500 artifacts, and 3,000 antiques. Ray has also championed eco-friendly practices, with over 9.5 lakh trees and plants and 28,000 shrubs planted across MAYFAIR resorts, reflecting the brand’s philosophy: “Stay with us, Stay with nature.”
Beyond Hospitality: Cultural Storytelling
A creative visionary, Ray ventured into filmmaking with her acclaimed project The History of Tea, which received international recognition at the 11th Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival This initiative underscores her passion for promoting Indian culture and storytelling on a global stage.
Guided by a Mantra
Guided by her mantra: “Stay grounded, yet stay ahead,” Pooja Ray continues to redefine experiential luxury, positioning MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts as a brand that embodies elegance, innovation, sustainability, and cultural storytelling, creating meaningful journeys that leave a lasting imprint on every guest.
