Hemant Tenneti, General Manager, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet, Mumbai – Marriott Executive Apartments, holds a wealth of experience spanning two decades in the hospitality sector. In an exclusive chat with Hotelier India, Tenneti shares his journey as a hotelier, success mantras, vision for the hotel and more…
- Where did your hospitality journey begin? What triggered your interest towards the hospitality industry?
My journey in the hospitality industry began in 1999 when I joined Accor Hotels, working in the event operations’ team at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre in Australia. During this time, I was exposed to the dynamic and fast-paced world of hospitality, and I found myself drawn to the art of creating memorable experiences for guests. The joy of serving and delighting people during their events and travels ignited my passion for the industry. I realized that hospitality was not just a career; it was a calling to craft moments that leave a lasting impact on people’s lives.
My hospitality journey peaked in 2011 when I joined Marriott International as the Director of Food & Beverage at the Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre and Marriott Executive Apartments. My growing interest in the hospitality industry was sparked by several factors. Firstly, I have always had a passion for providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for people. The idea of being able to make a positive impact on guests’ lives during their travels intrigued me. Secondly, the dynamic nature of the industry and the opportunity to work with diverse cultures and personalities further captivated me. The hospitality industry offers a unique blend of art and science, combining guest-centricity, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail, which aligned perfectly with my interests and aspirations
- How has your journey at the Westin Powai been so far? What are the main challenges faced by the hotel’s management?
My journey at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake and Lakeside Chalet, Mumbai – Marriott Executive Apartments has been incredibly fulfilling and enriching. We have made significant progress in elevating these properties into definitive urban resorts, and the journey has been marked by numerous milestones of growth and success. Our relentless focus on providing personalized and high-quality service has resonated with guests, creating a loyal clientele.
Despite our successes, my role as a leader is to spearhead the hotel through any challenges it might face too. One of the main challenges is in consistently exceeding high standards in all aspects of the guest experience. As a luxury property, guests have high expectations, and it is essential to deliver on those expectations consistently. Another challenge is adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry. Market dynamics, evolving guest preferences, and technological advancements necessitate continuous innovation and agility to stay competitive and relevant.
- Overall, can you share a few moments in your journey that have made you the hotelier you are today?
Several moments have significantly shaped me as a hotelier throughout my journey. One pivotal moment was when I led the transformation of the landmark Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre to the globally recognized Westin Hotels. By implementing holistic reinvention, introducing innovative concepts and ensuring impeccable service, we turned the operation into an award-winning success. This experience taught me the value of creativity, attention to detail, and the power of a dedicated team.
Another defining moment has been leading the team to achieve multiple accolades and awards that reaffirmed the importance of effective leadership, collaboration, and fostering a culture of excellence.
Moreover, my tenure with the group has further honed my strategic acumen, as I gained a broader understanding of the industry landscape and honed my ability to inspire and empower teams to excel.
- As a successful hotelier, what is your success mantra?
As a successful hotelier, my success mantra revolves around three key principles:
Firstly, I believe in putting the guest at the centre of everything we do. It is essential to anticipate their needs, personalize their experiences, and exceed their expectations consistently. A guest-centric approach builds loyalty and enhances the overall reputation of the hotel.
Secondly, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation is crucial. Encouraging an environment where new ideas are welcomed and embraced leads to the evolution of services and offerings, keeping the hotel fresh and ahead of the competition.
Lastly, empowering and developing our team is vital. Our associates are the heart of the hotel, and their passion and dedication are instrumental in delivering exceptional service. By nurturing their growth and providing opportunities for advancement, we create a motivated and engaged workforce, resulting in improved guest experiences and overall success.
- A message to all the aspiring GMs out there?
To all aspiring GMs, I would like to convey that a career in hospitality is a journey filled with incredible opportunities for growth and impact. Embrace challenges as stepping stones to success, and never lose sight of the importance of genuine guest experiences. It is crucial to be adaptable, continuously learn, and stay attuned to the evolving needs and expectations of guests. Lead by example, cultivate a culture of teamwork, and foster an environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Most importantly, be passionate about what you do, and let that passion inspire and motivate your team to deliver excellence.
- What is your future vision for the hotel?
Looking ahead, my future vision for The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake and Lakeside Chalet, Mumbai – Marriott Executive Apartments is to solidify their positions as iconic urban resorts. We aim to continue elevating the guest experience, ensuring personalized luxury and top-notch service. Our focus on innovation will remain steadfast, as we strive to stay ahead in the industry and introduce unique offerings that resonate with guests. Additionally, we will continue to strengthen our ties with the local community, supporting its growth and development. The ultimate goal is to make these properties a beacon of hospitality excellence, cherished by guests and embraced by the city of Mumbai.
