Priya Paul

Chairperson,
Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd

Priya Paul started her career under her father, Late Surrendra Paul, as the Marketing Manager of THE Park New Delhi. A prominent business woman and one of the most revered personalities in the hospitality industry, Paul is the creative powerhouse behind country’s leading collection of contemporary luxury boutique hotels – THE Park Hotels, the social catalyst brand – Zone by The Park, intimate luxury hotels present at select travel destinations – THE Park Collection, upper mid-scale brand that channels it’s spirit and design philosophy from Zone by the Park – Zone Connect by The Park, and newly launched Stop By Zone.
She has been working in the industry for more than 28 years and has worked hard to create experiences that are different, extraordinary and inexplicable. Under her direction, THE Park Hotels have emerged as stylish, edge, warm and fun – a true reflection of her personality and her passion for modern art and design.
Paul is also a Founding Member of World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) – India Initiative, and has served as the Chairperson for the year 2013. She is also an Executive Committee Member and Ex-President of the Hotel Association of India. She was Founder Director of South Asia Women’s Fund (now Women’s Fund Asia) and Chair from 2010 to 2018, and is trustee of the India Foundation for the Arts (IFA), and a member of Harvard Business Schools’ India Advisory Board.

Success Mantras:
“Creativity and innovation have been extremely vital in my journey. I feel it is of utmost importance to be unafraid of your views, and I have been quite fearless in my trajectory.
“I have a flair for understanding people, and strongly believe in collaboration and working with different minds. It enriches my experience as a leader as well. I empower my teams and give them the space to grow.
“For me, it is essential to view and think outside the box, and also to focus on the big picture – as many complex issues can be answered by simplifying.”