With over a decade of experience in engineering within the hospitality sector, I have grown from a Senior Executive in Facilities to a Chief Engineer, leading diverse teams across prestigious properties like Mahindra, Radisson, and Future Group. My journey reflects a commitment to continuous learning, innovative problem-solving, and fostering collaboration. Specializing in integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices, I excel in creating guest-centric environments that prioritize quality, safety, and efficiency. Driven by a vision to elevate industry standards, I aim to contribute to the hospitality sector’s growth by championing smart solutions and shaping resilient, high-performing engineering teams.
How has your role evolved from your early days as a Senior Executive in Facilities to your current position as Chief Engineer?
My journey from Senior Executive in Facilities to Chief Engineer has been transformative and deeply rewarding. Early on, I embraced every opportunity, focusing on developing features and driving engineering improvements. Despite the absence of professional guidance, my determination and hard work enabled me to navigate the competitive corporate landscape effectively.
Throughout my evolution, I learned the importance of continuous learning and taking responsibility for my actions. This journey taught me the value of soft skills, such as effective communication and teamwork, alongside mastering technical expertise. Each challenge I faced not only sharpened my problem-solving abilities but also reinforced my commitment to excellence. Ultimately, my experiences have shaped my leadership style, allowing me to inspire others while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within my team.
How do you approach leadership when managing the engineering teams across the various properties you have worked at?
My approach to leadership when managing engineering teams across diverse properties—such as Mahindra, Radisson, Future Group, Big Bazaar, and various locations ranging from hill resorts to urban business hotels—centres on adaptability and collaboration. Each property presents unique challenges and cultural dynamics, whether it is a serene jungle resort or a bustling city hotel.
I believe that effective leadership stems from understanding these nuances and leveraging the strengths of each team member. By fostering an inclusive environment, I encourage open communication and collaboration, which allows us to learn from one another and adapt our strategies accordingly. Additionally, I prioritize mentorship, drawing from my experiences with colleagues and seniors to guide my team. This approach not only enhances our collective expertise but also cultivates a culture of continuous improvement, enabling us to deliver exceptional results regardless of the setting.
What leadership lessons did you learn from working in various high-pressure environments?
Working in various high-pressure environments has imparted invaluable leadership lessons that have shaped my professional approach. One of the most significant insights is the importance of maintaining focus and composure during critical situations, such as when dealing with back-to-back hotel bookings or addressing major breakdowns.
In these moments, I have learned to prioritize clear communication and swift decision-making. Keeping a calm demeanour helps to instil confidence within my team, encouraging them to remain resolute and solution-oriented.
Additionally, I have recognized the value of fostering a culture of collaboration and support. By encouraging team members to share their insights and work together, we can develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Finally, I have learned that reflecting on past experiences allows us to adapt and improve our strategies for future challenges, ensuring we remain resilient and effective in high-pressure situations.
How do you stay updated with the latest technological advancements in engineering and how do you apply them in your projects?
Staying updated with the latest technological advancements in engineering is essential in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. I leverage a combination of social media, online portals, and professional networks to stay informed about emerging trends and innovations. Engaging with industry leaders and participating in webinars allows me to gain insights into cutting-edge technologies and best practices.
I actively apply these advancements in my projects by integrating smart technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability. For example, I focus on power-saving solutions and innovative maintenance strategies to minimize breakdowns. Additionally, I assess manpower costs and optimize equipment usage to improve overall project effectiveness.
By embracing these smart working methods, I ensure that my team remains competitive and capable of delivering high-quality results. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to maintaining our edge in the engineering field.
How do you see yourself contributing to the hospitality sector in the coming years, and what are your future goals as an engineering leader?
As an engineering leader in the hospitality sector, I envision contributing significantly to the industry’s evolution, particularly in enhancing guest experiences. The post-COVID landscape has underscored the need for exceptional hygiene standards and maintenance protocols, and I am committed to driving these improvements. By prioritizing high-quality maintenance and innovative solutions, I aim to create environments where guests feel at home, even while away from theirs.
My future goals include advancing to the role of Director of Engineering, where I can lead initiatives that integrate smart technologies and sustainability practices into hotel operations. I believe that engineering plays a crucial role in ensuring that hospitality facilities meet the highest standards of quality and safety. By fostering a culture of excellence within my teams and collaborating with other departments, I aspire to shape a more resilient and guest-centric hospitality sector, ultimately enhancing the overall guest experience and contributing to the industry’s growth.
