Swapna Subba is a passionate hotelier with over 19 years of experience who possesses a deep ability to enhance the guest experience, build relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, and guide the team to optimize revenues, profitability, and growth innovatively. She is well-versed with world-class procedures and best practices in the hospitality industry through her overseas stint with luxury resorts in Maldives and her experience with different brands of Accor hotels (Novotel, Mercure and ibis). Swapna is an alumnus of IHM-Kolkata and holds a postgraduate degree and MBA in International Hospitality from ISBM Hyderabad. She has a passion for gardening and watching movies.
Key Milestones
Professionally, the most significant milestone for me was when I became a General Manager. I always aspired to become a GM and contribute to the hospitality ecosystem around me. This was special as I ticked one of the dreams from my bucket list. Personally, one of the most important milestones was very emotionally connected when I became a mother of a baby girl. This was completely transformative for me. I believe it brought out the best in me and made me calmer and a mature, responsible person.
Overcoming Challenges
Fear is one of the biggest challenges that can hold you back from achieving your goals. It can be fear of failure, fear of the unknown, or even fear of success itself. And that is what has happened to me too where I ended up fighting with the demon inside me doubting my capability or confidence to face the world. But fear doesn’t have to stop you which I realized much later in my life. Every time we face a difficult situation, we learn more about ourselves and develop our resilience. With each challenge, you become stronger. Challenges are an excellent opportunity for growth. They test your resolve and commitment to your goals. And when you overcome them, you develop emotional and mental strength.
Advice to Women
Believe in yourself and trust your judgment. Don’t be swayed by the opinion of others. Don’t be shy to communicate your dedication and drive to climb the corporate ladder. A self-promoting attitude is about learning how to communicate what drives you. Consider what makes you excited about showing up at work every day. If you love your job, show it. Search for the value in feedback or criticism you receive from your peers and work towards it, try not to be complacent. Always cultivate perseverance and make a point to venture outside your comfort zone.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
According to me, the correct formula for work-life balance is the proper utilization of the 8-8-8 Rule in a day. That means 8 hours of fulfilling work, 8 hours of quality sleep, and 8 hours of enjoyable and restful activities with your loved ones. Spend your time in a way that supports your goals and values.
