Unlocking Success: Exploring the world of Hotel Management

Aparna Bhargava I [email protected]

As the hospitality industry continues to grow, hotel management has become an increasingly popular career choice for individuals looking to work in the field. Hotel management involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of a hotel or other lodging establishment, including managing staff, ensuring guest satisfaction, and overseeing the financial aspects of the business.

Prestigious Institutions for Hotel Management

Individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in hotel management can benefit from pursuing a degree or diploma in the field. Hotel management courses are offered at several prestigious institutions across India, including the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM’s), the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, and the Taj Group of Hotels and many a private institution like College of Hospitality Administration (CHA) in Jaipur, HM in Amity University.

Hotel management courses are typically offered at the undergraduate level, with a duration of three to four years. Some institutes also offer postgraduate courses in hotel management for individuals who wish to pursue higher education in the field. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including hotel operations, customer service, food and beverage management, accounting and finance, and marketing and sales.

Practical Learning focus on skill enhancement

In addition to traditional hotel management courses, many institutes also offer specialized courses for individuals who wish to specialize in a particular area of hotel management, such as food and beverage management, front office management, or housekeeping management. These courses provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical training in their area of specialisation, allowing them to develop the skills and expertise needed to succeed in their chosen field.

One of the most important aspects of hotel management is culinary arts, and chef training plays a key role in the hospitality industry. Many hotel management institutes offer courses in culinary arts, allowing students to develop the skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced and demanding world of professional kitchens. Students sometimes join hotels, individual restaurants, flight kitchens, industrial kitchens and now a days popular cloud kitchens.

Individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in hotel management should carefully research the various courses and institutes available and choose one that best fits their career goals and interests. It is also important to consider factors such as the reputation of the institute, the quality of education and training provided, and the availability of internships and job placement opportunities.

There are several famous hoteliers globally who have achieved great success in the hospitality industry, including J.W. Marriott, Conrad Hilton, and César Ritz. These individuals have left a legacy in the industry and continue to inspire new generations of hoteliers to pursue their dreams.

Some Indian hoteliers and their achievements

1. P.R.S. Oberoi – Chairman of EIH Limited and a renowned hotelier. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Oberoi Group as a leading luxury hotel chain in India and abroad
2. Priya Paul – Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, she is known for her contributions to the Indian hospitality industry. She played a significant role in transforming the Park Hotels into a well-known luxury hotel brand.
3. Ritesh Agarwal – Founder and CEO of OYO Rooms, Ritesh Agarwal is a young entrepreneur who revolutionized the budget hotel industry in India. OYO Rooms is now one of the largest hotel chains in the world.
4. Kapil Chopra – Former President of The Oberoi Group, Kapil Chopra was instrumental in expanding the brand’s presence in India and internationally. He is also the founder of The Postcard Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel chain.
5. Anil Madhok – Founder and Managing Director of Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Anil Madhok has been a key figure in the Indian hotel industry. Sarovar Hotels & Resorts is a leading hotel management company in India.
6. Priyanka Paul – Director of the Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, Priyanka Paul has played a significant role in the growth and development of the Park Hotels brand.
7. Sharan Pasricha – Founder and CEO of Ennismore, Sharan Pasricha is an Indian-born hotelier who has made a mark in the global hospitality industry. Ennismore owns and operates several acclaimed hotel brands, including The Hoxton and Gleneagles.
8. Nakul Anand – Executive Director of ITC Limited and a prominent figure in the Indian hotel industry. He has played a key role in the growth and success of ITC Hotels, one of India’s largest luxury hotel chains.
9. Patu Keswani – Chairman and Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels, Patu Keswani has been a significant contributor to the mid-priced hotel segment in India. Lemon Tree Hotels is known for its accessible luxury offerings.
10. Deep Kalra – Founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, Deep Kalra has made a significant impact on the online travel and hotel booking industry in India. MakeMyTrip is one of the leading travel portals in the country.

Range of career options

Hotel management degree not only prepares students for a career in hotel management but also opens opportunities in other related fields such as events, marketing, airline, and customer care. The skills and knowledge gained through a hotel management degree can be applied to a variety of industries, providing graduates with a range of career options.

Event management is one such field that offers exciting career opportunities for hotel management graduates. Events such as weddings, corporate meetings, and conferences require a great deal of planning and coordination, and individuals with a background in hotel management are well-suited to this type of work. A hotel management degree provides students with a strong foundation in customer service, communication, and project management, all of which are essential skills in the field of event management.

Marketing is another field that is closely related to hotel management, and many hotel management graduates choose to pursue a career in marketing after completing their degree. Hotel management graduates have a strong understanding of customer service and hospitality, which can be applied to a variety of marketing roles, including brand management, advertising, and public relations.

The airline industry is also closely linked to hotel management, and many hotel management graduates find employment in this field. Airline companies require individuals with strong customer service skills and the ability to manage complex operations, making hotel management graduates a good fit for this type of work.

Customer care is another field where hotel management graduates can apply their skills and knowledge. Customer care involves handling customer inquiries, resolving complaints, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Hotel management graduates have experience in managing customer relationships and providing high-quality customer service, making them well-suited for this type of work.Top of FormBottom of Form

In summary, hotel management offers a rewarding and exciting career path for individuals who are interested in working in the hospitality industry. Pursuing a degree or diploma in hotel management can provide individuals with the skills and expertise needed to succeed in this fast-paced and dynamic field. Specialized courses in areas such as culinary arts can also provide individuals with a competitive edge in the industry. Aspiring hoteliers should carefully research their options and choose an institute and course that aligns with their career goals and interests. With hard work and dedication, individuals can achieve great success in the world of hotel management and leave their own legacy in the industry.

Writer is IHM Pusa, OCLD Graduate, Masters in Psychology, Global Faculty: International Association of Exhibitions and Events. Former Visiting Faculty: Amity School of hospitality and Tourism