Exclusive Interview | Deepika Sethi, Creative & Operations Director, Bright Hospitality
/“Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about having the right people in your corner.”
Coming from a family of business professionals, what early experiences shaped your leadership style and business acumen ?
Growing up in a business-focused family taught me the value of strategic thinking and resilience. My father’s approach to problem-solving and my mother’s instinct for creating warm, welcoming spaces shaped my understanding of both business and hospitality. Dinner table conversations often revolved around business challenges and opportunities, which gave me an early understanding of how to navigate complexities and think critically. My mother’s attention to detail in creating a homely environment taught me that success in hospitality is not just about operations but it’s about creating experiences where people feel valued and comfortable. These early lessons have guided my leadership style, blending strategic focus with a people-first approach.
As a Founder Partner at BHPL, you oversee multiple functions. What’s your approach to ensuring seamless execution across departments ?
It’s all about building a strong team and giving them the confidence to take charge of their roles. I believe in clear communication and setting clear goals so that everyone knows what’s expected. Regular check-ins and open feedback help keep things on track. Each brand under BHPL has its own identity, but we follow a common framework to ensure consistency. I trust my team to handle day-to-day operations while I stay focused on the bigger picture. The key is to balance setting a clear direction while giving the team the freedom to execute it in their own way.
Hospitality is known for its fast-paced environment. How do you maintain balance between strategic leadership and hands-on involvement?
I stay involved in key decisions but trust my team to handle day-to-day operations. Delegation and trust are essential. I focus on the bigger picture that is long-term growth strategies, brand positioning, and customer experience, while relying on our managers and chefs to execute the finer details. At the same time, I make it a point to stay connected with the team and the customer experience. It’s about finding the right balance between guiding the team and giving them space to grow and innovate.
BHPL is built on innovation and authenticity. How do you contribute to shaping the brand’s unique identity and customer experience?
At BHPL, our focus is on creating a balance between tradition and modernity across all our brands. Every brand under BHPL has its own story and personality, and my role is to make sure that story comes through in every detail, from the menu to the ambiance and service.
We work closely with chefs, designers, and staff to create experiences that feel personal and authentic while keeping them fresh and innovative. The goal is to ensure that no matter which outlet a guest visits, they experience the same warmth, quality, and attention to detail that define BHPL.
Sustainability and responsible sourcing are becoming key industry trends. How does BHPL integrate these principles into its operations?
Sustainability is not just a trend for us - it’s a responsibility. We work closely with local farmers and suppliers to source organic, seasonal ingredients. At OMO, we focus on zero-waste cooking, using every part of the ingredient creatively to minimize waste. Our packaging is biodegradable, and we’ve introduced energy-efficient practices across our outlets. We also educate our staff about sustainable practices, ensuring that the entire team is aligned with our environmental goals. This approach allows us to not only reduce our footprint but also offer fresher, more flavorful dishes that reflect the natural essence of the ingredients.
What’s your vision for BHPL’s future, and what upcoming projects are you most excited about?
The opening of Ikk Panjab in Chandigarh is a major milestone for us. Chandigarh holds a special place in the cultural fabric of Punjab, and we’re excited to introduce our culinary heritage to a new audience. We’re also expanding AMPM and OMO into new markets —focusing on cities where there’s a growing appetite for premium, experience-driven dining.
Our goal is to have a strong presence across India while exploring select international markets with a significant Indian diaspora. The long-term vision is to establish BHPL as a leader in experiential dining, where authenticity, innovation, and guest experience come together seamlessly.
You play a crucial role in marketing and communication. How do you craft compelling brand stories that connect with customers?
Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do. Customers today don’t just want good food, they want to know the story behind it. We highlight the inspiration behind our dishes, the sourcing of ingredients, and the craftsmanship that goes into each meal. Social media has been a game-changer which allows us to connect with customers on a personal level and share the stories behind our brands. We also focus on consistency, ensuring that the messaging across platforms reflects the brand’s personality and values. Authenticity is key that customers can sense when a story is genuine, and that’s what builds long-term loyalty.
Your love for travel and adventure influences your leadership. How do these experiences inspire your work at BHPL?
Travel opens up our mind to new cultures, flavors, and experiences. Every trip brings back new ideas, whether it’s a cooking technique, a presentation style, or an ingredient. For example, our focus on indigenous ingredients at OMO was inspired by a trip to Nagaland, where I experienced the richness of local produce. Adventure teaches you to adapt, problem-solve, and stay calm under pressure, qualities that are essential in hospitality. Travel also reminds you that food is a universal language as it brings people together, which is exactly what we aim to create at BHPL.
As a mentor and leader, what advice would you give to young women looking to build a. career in hospitality and entrepreneurship?
Keep growing, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries. The hospitality industry can be tough, but passion, resilience, and a willingness to adapt will set you apart. Surround yourself with mentors and people who inspire and uplift you. Having the right support system makes a big difference, whether it’s in business or life, choosing a partner who respects your ambitions and encourages you to chase your dreams fearlessly is key. Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about having the right people in your corner.
