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.
At dhi Hospitality, we help hotels translate data into practical, forward-thinking strategies, combining analytics with real-world expertise to drive sustainable growth and stronger market positioning.
By combining nature, innovation, and sustainability, your venture can offer luxurious stays that highlight the best of India while contributing to local economies and protecting the environment.
Consumers demand personalized dining experiences, customization based on taste preferences, dietary habits, and convenience. Chefs must continuously adapt, fine-tune their skills, and create handcrafted, memorable gourmet flavors. The ability to balance innovation with consistency is key.
In the early days, I was just passionate—I wasn’t yet experienced. I trusted the wrong advisors, hired the wrong teams, spent money where I shouldn’t have, and ignored my gut. The result? A heavy financial hit and a lot of emotional turmoil. But those were also the most powerful years of learning.
Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about having the right people in your corner.
Hospitality today is undergoing a significant transformation from product-centric to emotionally resonant experiences. Guests no longer seek mere accommodation; they desire belonging, identity, and emotional connection.
Striking the right balance between tradition and innovation is key. Tradition offers familiarity, cultural richness, and authenticity, while innovation introduces creativity, modern techniques, and excitement. Curate experiences that honor the cultural and culinary heritage of each destination.
Say cheers to NATURAL & NO to CHEMICALS!
Tell your story. Photography isn’t just about rooms and lobbies—it’s about mood, atmosphere, and the experience you want guests to imagine.
A successful marketing campaign not only drives bookings but also enhances brand perception, fosters guest loyalty, and ensures sustained visibility in a highly competitive industry.
The biggest challenge all the hospitality brands face today is how to stand out and be unique in this crowded market and also ensuring that digital marketing actually brings in conversions for them.
It’s always challenging for IHM to prepare the students as per the expectation of industry. In my opinion, IHM should focus on right attitude for the service, discipline, positive personality development, and improved communication. The knowledge of the relevant subjects, mastering of skills and balanced managerial input to take right decisions at right time.
True success is when guests leave with memorable experiences, employees feel valued and I continuously push my own boundaries to innovate and grow.
We’re on a mission to make guest experience a tangible focus area for hotels to drive more business & revenue.
We envision a bright future where guests receive seamless, personalised services inside the hotel and outside, making their travel journeys more engaging & fulfilled.
By thoughtfully integrating traditional methods with modern digital tools, hospitality organizations can create a dynamic and effective training program.
At Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, we strive to create a seamless fusion of luxury and culture, offering guests an immersive experience that celebrates the rich traditions of Ras Al Khaimah.
With Guestara, we’re tackling a fundamental yet neglected issue in hospitality—using AI to make guest interactions seamless and truly personalized.
"Travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that rejuvenate and inspire. Wellness is merging with tourism, and cultural authenticity has a profound healing effect" Read the full interview >
The hospitality industry is expected to face significant financial shifts in the coming years due to evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, environmental concerns, and economic factors.
What truly excites me about People & Culture is the ability to shape careers, nurture potential, and instill a sense of purpose within individuals.
I wanted to create a platform that could connect people in meaningful ways while ensuring that both travelers and property owners had an exceptional experience.
Let’s be honest, nothing really prepares you for hospitality until you’re in it. Every twist and turn taught me something new, like how to keep calm when things go sideways or how to turn a hiccup into a win for the guests.
I believe in the transformative power of joy and humor in the workplace. Infusing positivity into our daily interactions creates an engaging atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration.
What advice would you give to young chefs and hoteliers aspiring to leave their mark in the industry?A Chef is an artist with a sharp brain. The top priorities should be on Culinary Skills, Passion for Cooking, Willingness to learn & do lots of Hard Work, Leadership Skills, awareness and complete hold on Financials, An Eye for Detail, Innovation, Hygiene and Team Building.
For 2025, my priorities include strengthening The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake’s positioning as a wellness destination for both business and leisure travelers
My aspiration is to build a resilient and innovative sales team that drives sustained growth. I envision Sheraton Grand Palace Indore as the epitome of premium hospitality in the region.
Love for cooking is undoubtedly the cornerstone. It is not just about creating delicious food; it’s about the joy of the process and the satisfaction of seeing people enjoy your creations.
I hope to inspire the next generation of chefs to see the vast potential in plant-based cooking and to approach it with passion, innovation, and a commitment to impact. Together, we can elevate vegetarian cuisine into a future that’s healthier, more exciting, and better for our planet.
We envision Grand Mercure Mysore as a place where people come to relax, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Mysore’s culture.