In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the dynamics of the hospitality industry in India, specifically in the realm of brand marketing and communication. Traditionally a male-dominated field, the sector is now witnessing a significant rise in the presence and influence of women professionals. Multiple factors behind this trend led to the positive impact of women’s increasing role in shaping the narrative of hospitality brand marketing and communication in India.
Shattering stereotypes:
The evolving global landscape specially in the subcontinent, now allows women to break free from societal stereotypes and contribute more significantly to the industry’s marketing and communication strategies. As a result, women are now increasingly being recognized for their expertise, creativity, and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Unique perspective and empathy:
One of the key reasons behind the rise of women in hospitality brand marketing and communication is their innate ability to understand and empathize with customer needs. Women tend to possess a unique perspective, offering fresh and innovative insights into creating effective brand strategies that resonate with target audiences. They bring a sense of empathy to the table, enabling them to create and deliver compelling messaging that builds trust, loyalty, and emotional connections with customers.
Effective storytelling:
Women have a natural flair for storytelling. They have the ability to craft narratives that engage and captivate audiences. In a sector like hospitality, where storytelling plays a crucial role in creating memorable experiences, women can leverage their skills to create compelling brand narratives that communicate a brand’s vision, values, and unique offerings, leaving a lasting impact on consumers.
Diversity and inclusivity:
The inclusion of women in hospitality brand marketing and communication efforts contributes to a more diverse and inclusive industry. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, leading to richer creative ideas and strategies. By embracing diverse perspectives, hospitality brands can cater to a broader range of customers, resulting in increased market share and a stronger connection with their audience.
Role models and inspiration:
The increased presence of women in leadership positions within the hospitality industry serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women aspiring to make their mark in this field. Their success stories pave the way for more women to step forward, breaking barriers and challenging gender norms. The rising prominence of women in branding and communication roles creates a ripple effect, attracting more talented women into the industry and fostering a supportive environment for their growth.
The growing influence of women in hospitality brand marketing and communication in India signifies a positive shift towards gender equality and inclusivity in the industry. Women professionals are bringing their unique perspective, empathy, and storytelling skills to craft compelling brand narratives, connecting with audiences on a deeper level. This increasing representation of women is not only transforming the industry’s dynamics but also inspiring a new generation of female professionals to excel in hospitality marketing and communication. As women continue to thrive and contribute, the future looks promising for a more diverse and inclusive brand landscape in the Indian hospitality industry.
We are delighted to showcase the insights of several remarkable women who have proven themselves through continuous innovation, effective leadership, and outstanding talents. These women possess remarkable abilities to confront challenges and excel in multitasking. They possess exceptional skills in meeting the demanding standards of marketing and brand development in the hospitality industry.
- Simmi Sood
- Director, PR & Marketing Communications
- Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport
With close to two decades immersed in the vibrant tapestry of the hospitality industry, my journey in marketing communications has been nothing short of exhilarating. From the tangible allure of print to the dynamic realm of digital and the interactive landscape of social media, this field offers a multifaceted canvas for exploration and creativity. Each facet provides a unique opportunity for exposure, learning, and innovation.
Being a part of marketing, the milestone celebration of Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport’s 25 years was a significant moment for me, encapsulating both excitement and professional growth. Every day presents a new opportunity for learning and growth, whether it’s meeting new people or exploring emerging trends. I’ve come to believe that storytelling is at the heart of successful branding, allowing us to forge deep emotional connections with our audience. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible teams and mentors who have supported and inspired me.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and excellence in this dynamic industry, driven by my unwavering passion for communication and branding.
- Malvika Mathur
- Director of Marketing and Communication
- Hyatt Regency Delhi
As a driven Marketing professional with over a decade of experience in luxury hotels and the food and beverage industry, my journey has been very fulfilling and enriching as I have had the privilege to work with flagship properties such as ITC Maurya, The Leela Palace New Delhi and now the iconic Hyatt Regency Delhi.
Although I never got a formal degree in hotel management, my tenure at each of these prestigious hotels has been a masterclass in deeply understanding the nuances of hotel operations and changing trends in hospitality which has only served to deepen my passion for hotel marketing. My ability to always think like a customer along with my skills in communication, branding, and digital strategy, has enabled me to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences and foster long-term loyalty. This fusion of experience, intuition, and skill has been instrumental in the creation of successful marketing campaigns that are not only engaging but have been cultivating genuine long-lasting connections.
Today, the hospitality sector stands at the cusp of a transformative era, with India’s hospitality industry poised for a decade of remarkable growth. Marketing strategies in the hospitality sector have transitioned from traditional approaches to innovative digital methods, reshaping the way businesses engage with customers. Hotel marketing transcends beyond promoting the hotel as a mere place to rest and dine, delving into a realm where it assumes cultural significance within the community. It serves as a platform for education, inspiration, and the nurturing of love and loyalty. Presently, hotels have been constantly improving their websites and mobile apps, investing heavily in virtual reality and artificial intelligence, and using a data-first approach to enhance customer experiences and streamline interactions. This digital evolution has revolutionized hospitality marketing, offering unprecedented opportunities for engagement and brand-building making it an incredibly exciting and dynamic space to be in where each day brings fresh challenges and experiences, ensuring that no two days are alike.
- Chitrangada Gupta
- Marketing & Communications Manager
- Courtyard By Marriott Aravali Resort
As the Marketing and Communication Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort, I’m excited to discuss the transformative power of gender diversity and equality in the hospitality industry, traditionally dominated by men. Today, we’re witnessing a significant shift towards greater inclusion and female leadership, and it’s reshaping our industry for the better. Even though I still feel we have a long way to go but, it’s extremely refreshing to see women take up leadership roles that were once only led by men.
I also believe that the times that we’re living in currently wherein there is much more awareness and talk about how women can take up any role irrespective of any physical or mental factors. Gone are the days when the hospitality industry was seen as a male-dominated industry there have been way too many studies and statistics and results have shown that competence stereotypes have changed dramatically over time.
As a female leader in the hospitality industry, I’ve experienced firsthand the positive impact of gender diversity and equality. By creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
I’m proud to be part of an industry that is evolving towards greater gender diversity and equality, and I’m committed to driving positive change at Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort. Together, we’re building a more inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
- Aakriti Batra
- Chief Executive & Co-Founder,
- 1524 Delhi
When I think about women in leadership roles in the hospitality industry, I am filled with a sense of pride and optimism. Over the years, I have witnessed women bring a unique set of strengths to the table, making a significant impact on the industry. In the realm of hospitality, empathy plays a crucial role. Women are known for their ability to understand and connect with others on a deeper level. This attribute allows us to create a welcoming and memorable experience for guests, fostering strong relationships and leaving a lasting impression.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside and learning from some of the most talented women in hospitality. Their dedication, resilience, and passion have been a constant source of motivation for me.
As the industry continues to evolve, I am confident that the future of hospitality is bright for women. Women’s unique skills and perspectives are increasingly valued, and we are entering an era where gender diversity in leadership is recognized as a key driver of success. The industry is slowly shedding its gender bias and embracing the contributions that women bring to the table.
- Shantla Jain,
- Director of Marketing and Communications,
- JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa and Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, A Tribute Portfolio Resort.
With over 12 years immersed in luxury hospitality and marketing, I’ve gained multifaceted insights working across diverse markets. Witnessing the evolution of hotel marketing has been an interesting journey, as digital advancements and the transition from traditional to online platforms continually challenged us to innovate while prioritizing exceptional guest experiences. Amidst dynamic travel trends and guest expectations, digital amplification was crucial to drive accessibility for all types of travelers.
I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with esteemed international hotel chains such as Hyatt, Accor, Hilton, IHCL, and now Marriott. Throughout my journey, I have continuously pursued excellence and received recognition for my contributions as these are the organizations that prioritize inclusive work environments and maintain cultures of mutual respect, fostering collective growth.
In my current role as Director of Marketing and Communications for JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa and Mulberry Shades Bengaluru, A Tribute Portfolio Resort, I am committed to positioning our resorts as the preferred destination, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Nandi Hills. Over the years, amidst navigating volatile and sensitive markets, I’ve gained invaluable lessons, and I am focused on effectively applying my acquired knowledge to develop tailored marketing strategies. As we continue to embrace innovation, we aim to unlock the fullest potential for our business.
- Aparna Bhaskar Rai,
- Director of Sales and Marketing,
- The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore
Embrace change and embrace challenges. It’s through adversity that we grow and innovate” is a saying Aparna strongly believes in and goes on to say that, “Adopting new methods is the sole means of progressing in the industry.” Aparna Bhaskar Rai, currently the Director of Sales & Marketing at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, commenced her hotel journey as a Hotel Management Graduate from IHM, Bangalore. As she hails from a prolific career with more than 17 years of experience in the industry, she has cultivated expertise through notable roles at esteemed establishments, such as The Oberoi Group, Hilton, and Four Seasons. Adept at maintaining robust client networks, Aparna’s previous assignment involved contributing to the preopening team as the Director of Sales at The Four Seasons Hotel, Bengaluru. Known for her results-driven approach and strong interpersonal skills, she brings a fresh and innovative perspective to her current role, aligning seamlessly with The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary standards of excellence.
(*TW perspective)
