Exclusive Interview | Neeraj Balani, Chief Operating Officer, Ascot Hospitality
/ Editor Hospemag“Describe an ideal hospitality professional.
A selfless individual who is sensitive to guest needs and can anticipate them for timely deliveries.”
We interviewed Neeraj in 2018, when he was the General Manager, Radisson Marina. Read that interview here >
What do you think it takes to succeed in this industry?
Success in the hospitality industry is an outcome of the unwavering commitment, tireless effort, unparalleled service, exceptional standards and a selfless approach demonstrated by a team of highly committed individuals for our esteemed guests.
Launching something new is both an exciting opportunity and a responsibility. Share with us a deep dive into your process for these new launches.
Our customer centric approach has been the key focal point of our actions and we have recently launched a Savoy Executive club Membership program which encapsulates the key offerings of the hotel aligning with our guest requirements which further motivates them to use our facilities like the all-suite rooms, restaurant, banqueting, conferencing, health club and gym.
What does the future look like? For the industry, you, your project / initiative.
The future of hospitality is on an exciting path and shall have automation, personalized transformative experiences, environments social governance taking center stage. Our group is on the expansion trajectory being mindful of the same and shall be capitalizing the opportunities being future ready.
What are the attributes you look for while selecting or hiring?
Our outlook on that front is fairly straight as we look for the right attitude and are ready to invest in the learnings of the team members who are enthusiastic and willing to navigate through challenges.
What is your favourite interview question & why?
I usually look forward to individuals who are ambitious and passionate where their skill set/zeal to perform can benefit the organization. The question is what is it one thing you are looking from the role applied for.
Describe an ideal hospitality professional.
A selfless individual who is sensitive to guest needs and can anticipate them for timely deliveries.
"I believe promotions are a by‑product of consistently creating value. When you stay committed to making a meaningful difference, recognition and career growth eventually find their way to you."- Neha Pant
"Those early experiences and one on one mentorship opportunities with great chefs laid the foundation of ‘Create, don’t imitate’ for my career and sparked a lifelong commitment to learning and growing as a chef."
"Housekeeping is more than just cleaning rooms—it's about creating an experience where every guest feels comfortable and cared for."
"True hospitality goes far beyond standard service. It is about showing genuine care and being willing to go the extra mile when it truly matters."
Every career has its ups and downs, but success belongs to those who keep showing up. I've always believed in staying the course, learning from every challenge, and never giving up. Passion may get you started, but it's perseverance that keeps you moving forward
“Empty your cup—be open to unlearning and relearning, and allow yourself to grow with every opportunity.”-Mr. Saurabh Choksi, General Manager – Sayaji Hotel Wakad, Pune
“Hospitality looks glamorous from the outside, but this industry demands tremendous discipline, emotional intelligence, and consistency.”- Ms. Richa Adhia, MD – Eight Continents Hotel and Resorts
“Luxury today is not about marble floors or thread counts – guests can find that anywhere. What they cannot find everywhere is Udaipur.”
— Ms. Swati Agarwal, Spokesperson & Owner, Radisson Blu Hotel, Resorts and Spa, Udaipur
“Success in hospitality requires resilience, adaptability, and genuine empathy. Attention to detail and consistency are critical, but equally important is the ability to lead teams with clarity and purpose.” – Subhajit Mitra, Director of Rooms, Radisson Blu Hotel Pune Hinjawadi
“Success as a chef today is defined by a commitment to constant evolution—you must remain a student of your craft while inspiring your team to grow.”- Chef Sidharth Bhardwaj
By honouring India’s cultural context while staying true to our methodology, we create wellness journeys that are deeply rooted, emotionally resonant and globally relevant.
“Resilience, adaptability, and genuine team leadership top the list—build trust through open dialogue and empower associates to innovate.”- Subhankar Bose, General Manager – Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel
Becoming a successful chef requires far more than just knowing how to prepare recipes; it takes discipline, dedication, commitment to excellence, respect for ingredients and culinary traditions
chef Sumit
Chef Amarjeet Singh Thakur is a seasoned Indian culinary expert with over 25 years of experience, specialising in traditional tandoor, Mughlai and regional North Indian cuisine. Chef Amarjeet is currently working as Chef de Partie (CDP) – BBQ at SAFAR by Karimi in Cupertino, California, where he brings authentic Indian grilling techniques to a global audience. With multiple recognitions — including “Employee of the Year” and media highlights for his ‘down-to-earth rustic Punjabi cuisine’ — Chef Amarjeet continues to champion traditional Indian cooking methods, especially tandoor and charcoal-based BBQ.
Our vision is to position Sheraton Grand Palace Indore as Central India’s most trusted luxury destination a benchmark for service excellence, innovation, and sustainability
True culinary mastery lies not in specializing in one cuisine, but in embracing every kitchen as a place of learning—where passion, adaptability, and respect for ingredients transform food into meaningful experiences, and where leadership is measured by how deeply you inspire growth, trust, and creativity in your team. - Chef Aditya
Hospitality is fundamentally about people. Success requires passion, empathy, and adaptability.
“Humility and consistency are the unsung ingredients that make a chef last in this industry.” - Chef Shriram Rajendran
