As a tribute to International Women’s Day, we feature India’s top women hotel General Managers, who spill the beans on their passion for hospitality and what it takes to thrive in a male domain…
Neha Kapoor, General Manager, Hyatt Place Vadodara
Neha Kapoor’s journey spans over two decades, giving her a wealth of experiences that she draws from in her position as the General Manager at Hyatt Place Vadodara. After working as a Front Office Associate for a brief period, she switched gears and entered the Sales and Marketing field, which led to her current leadership role.
Key Milestones
Throughout my career, I have encountered and embraced several significant moments that have defined my path. I began my career at the front office and gradually worked my way up to leadership roles in esteemed establishments, where each step brought its own lessons and insights. Whether I was directly assisting guests or leading a team, my goal has always been to enhance their experiences and contribute positively to the organizations I’ve been a part of.
Overcoming Challenges
Managing the numerous human element dynamics, satisfying guest expectations, and negotiating the complexities of stakeholder management have presented tough challenges. As the Director of Sales and Marketing and Assistant General Manager at Hyatt Place Hyderabad in 2020, I recall being solely in charge of overseeing five departments during COVID. After working tirelessly to maintain the ever-evolving safety measures in hospitality for six months, I successfully navigated these obstacles, emerging stronger and more capable through effective communication, strategic planning, and the creation of a supportive team environment.
Advice to Women
To all the wonderful women venturing into the hospitality industry, I want to share some heartfelt advice. Embrace your journey with determination and resilience. Recognize that gender bias may exist but focus on your capabilities and contributions rather than allowing it to deter your progress. Seek opportunities for growth, continuously enhance your skills, and leverage your unique strengths as women leaders. Your voice matters, and your advocacy can truly shape a brighter future for all. Embrace your potential and let your light shine brightly in every corner of the hospitality world.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
As a mother of a 15-year-old, maintaining work-life balance is paramount for me amidst the demanding nature of the hospitality industry. I highlight the importance of delegation and time management in maintaining long-term success in both personal and professional spheres. Whether it’s unplugging from work emails and calls during designated personal time or scheduling regular breaks throughout the day, I ensure that I allocate time for unwinding, and spending quality moments with loved ones. By incorporating these strategies into my daily routine, my commitment to work-life balance not only boosts my productivity but also serves as an inspiration to my team.
