1. Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey and how you started in your field?
I am Mehul Sharma, the Founder & CEO at Signum Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd. Signum Hotels is an emerging hotel company with 12 Hotels in India and 18 serviced apartments in the United Kingdom with a combined professional experience of 450 years through a diverse team across varied hospitality verticals. With two decades of experience in prestigious establishments such as The Claridge Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, and ITC Hotels, I’ve cultivated my leadership skills within the hospitality realm. Founding Signum Hotels is the culmination of my journey, driven by a deep-seated desire to elevate hospitality standards globally. By infusing our offerings with a commitment to international standards of luxury, we aim to redefine guest experiences. Our ethos revolves around not only elevating service but also fostering talent and catalyzing industry evolution, ensuring a lasting impact on the world of hospitality.
2. As both an individual and a professional, what core aims and ideals do you prioritize that shape your decision-making and work approach?
As both an individual and a professional leading Signum Hotel and Resorts, my core aims and ideals intertwine personal values with business objectives. On a personal level, I’m deeply committed to creating meaningful connections and experiences. I believe in the power of hospitality to enrich lives and create memories that last a lifetime. This belief translates into my professional role as CEO, where I prioritize exceptional guest experiences above all else.
Professionally, I am driven by a strong sense of responsibility towards sustainability. I understand the importance of preserving our environment for future generations and recognize the role businesses play in achieving this goal. Therefore, I am dedicated to implementing sustainable practices throughout our operations, from reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local communities.
Furthermore, I am passionate about fostering a positive work culture where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered. I believe that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for delivering exceptional service and driving the success of our business.
3.What sets you apart from your competitors in the industry? How do you differentiate your approach to create a unique value for your clients?
At Signum Hotel and Resorts, we differentiate ourselves from our competitors through a combination of personalized experiences, sustainability initiatives, and our vision to become an international brand.
We prioritize personalization in every aspect of our guest experience. From tailored concierge services to customized dining options, we go above and beyond to meet the unique needs and preferences of each guest, ensuring an unforgettable stay. Our commitment to sustainability sets us apart in the industry. We are dedicated to implementing eco-friendly practices throughout our properties, from energy-efficient systems to locally sourced amenities. By prioritizing sustainability, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also appeal to conscious travelers who seek responsible hospitality options.
Additionally, our vision extends beyond local markets to establish Signum Hotel and Resorts as an international name. Through strategic expansion plans and partnerships, we aim to bring our exceptional hospitality and commitment to sustainability to new destinations around the globe, offering travelers a consistent standard of excellence wherever they go.
4. Could you highlight the top-notch offerings of your company that clients find most compelling?
At Signum Hotel and Resorts, we offer top-notch personalized services and unique locations that captivate our guests. Our name, “SIGNUM,” meaning significance, reflects our commitment to adding value for our hotel owners, associates, and customers. We provide authentic experiences set in backgrounds of comfortable luxury, ensuring brand satisfaction for owners while balancing guest-centricity and employee well-being. Guests are our focus, inspiring everything we do. We dedicate ourselves to crafting the most amazing personal experiential memories and stays, whether it’s through customized dining options, curated excursions, or immersive cultural activities. Each Signum property embodies our philosophy of significance, delivering distinctive experiences that resonate with guests and leave a lasting impression.
5.What are the long-term objectives you have set for your company, and where do you envision the growth and evolution of your business in the coming years?
Our long-term objectives for Signum Hotel and Resorts entail strategic expansion both within India and globally. In India, we aim to capitalize on the burgeoning tourism industry by expanding into tier 2 and 3 cities. These regions offer immense potential for growth, with increasing infrastructure development and rising tourist interest in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. By establishing a presence in these emerging markets, we can cater to a diverse range of travelers and contribute to the local economies.
Furthermore, our vision extends beyond national borders as we aspire to become a globally recognized hospitality brand. We plan to expand our footprint into key international markets, leveraging our reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences and sustainable practices. By venturing into new territories, we aim to showcase the unique charm and cultural richness of each destination while maintaining the high standards of hospitality that define the Signum experience.
Overall, our long-term objectives focus on strategic expansion both domestically and internationally, positioning Signum Hotel and Resorts as a leading player in the global hospitality industry. Through thoughtful growth initiatives and a commitment to excellence, we aim to create memorable experiences for travelers worldwide while driving sustainable growth for our business.
6.Can you provide insights into some of your ongoing projects? What makes these projects particularly exciting or challenging?
We have several exciting ongoing projects that showcase our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strategic expansion.
One of our current projects involves the establishment of hotels in spiritual destinations such as Vrindavan and Shirdi. These locations hold significant cultural and religious importance, offering unique opportunities to provide exceptional hospitality experiences to pilgrims and travelers seeking spiritual retreats. The challenge lies in ensuring that our properties reflect the sacred essence of these destinations while also meeting the expectations of modern travelers for comfort, convenience, and luxury.
Furthermore, we are embarking on an ambitious international expansion initiative aimed at setting up over 1000 units globally by 2025. This endeavor presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. Expanding into new markets requires thorough market research, understanding cultural nuances, and adapting our business model to local preferences and regulations. However, the prospect of introducing the Signum brand to new destinations around the world is incredibly exhilarating and aligns with our vision of becoming a leading global hospitality brand.
Overall, our ongoing projects reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional experiences to guests across diverse locations. While each project presents its own set of challenges, we approach them with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that they will contribute to the continued success and expansion of Signum Hotel and Resorts.
7. Who in your life serves as a significant source of inspiration, and how have they influenced your career and personal development?
Several individuals have served as significant sources of inspiration in my life, shaping both my career and personal development. Firstly, my parents instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance from a young age. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in fueling my ambition and drive to succeed.
Within the hospitality industry, Manish Gupta, the CEO of TAJSATS, and Ajay Bakaya, the Managing Director of Sarovar Hotels, have been sources of inspiration and mentorship. Their visionary leadership, innovative approach to business, and commitment to excellence have inspired me to continuously strive for greatness in my own career. I’ve learned valuable lessons from their experiences and insights, which have helped shape my leadership style and decision-making process.
Additionally, my family and friends have provided unwavering support and encouragement throughout my journey, serving as pillars of strength during both triumphs and challenges. Their belief in my abilities and their constant encouragement have fueled my determination to pursue my goals relentlessly.
Overall, the collective influence of my parents, family, friends, and industry leaders like Manish Gupta and Ajay Bakaya has played a pivotal role in shaping my career trajectory and personal growth. Their guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support continue to inspire me to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in the world.
8. Share some notable recognitions and accreditations received by both yourself and your organization. How have these accolades contributed to your professional journey?
Both myself and Signum Hotel and Resorts have been honored with notable recognitions and accreditations throughout our professional journey, which have significantly contributed to our growth and reputation in the industry.
Signum Hotel and Resorts has also been recognized for its outstanding contributions to the industry, including awards for sustainability initiatives and guest satisfaction. Our commitment to sustainability, evidenced by our eco-friendly practices and initiatives.
Additionally, our strategic approach to business expansion, both domestically and internationally, has been acknowledged through awards for excellence in global expansion and market penetration. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Signum emerged stronger, showcasing resilience and adaptability in navigating uncertain times.
Furthermore, our organization’s achievement of becoming debt-free has been a significant milestone, affirming our financial stability and sound management practices. This accomplishment has bolstered investor confidence and positioned us for continued growth and success in the years ahead.
9. Reflecting on your career, what have been the most formidable obstacles you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Throughout my career, one of the most formidable obstacles I faced was navigating the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which drastically slowed down operations for Signum Hotel and Resorts. Faced with the tough decision of either closing down or seeking new opportunities on an international scale, we chose the latter. Undeterred by the challenges, we diversified our offerings by establishing apartments in the UK and the Middle East, providing alternative accommodations to adapt to changing traveler needs.
One of the most significant decisions we made during this time was relocating our entire management team from India to these international locations without additional funding. This move demonstrated our unwavering commitment to business continuity and service excellence, despite the uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. Our ability to adapt quickly and efficiently was crucial in overcoming this obstacle.
Looking ahead, Signum Hotel and Resorts remains dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth. We are poised to emerge stronger and more agile, ready to embrace the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. This experience has taught us valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability, which will continue to guide us in overcoming future challenges and achieving our long-term objectives.
10. How do you define success in your career, and how long did it take for you to achieve what you consider a successful position in your field?
Success in my career is defined by a combination of personal fulfillment, professional growth, and the impact I make in the industry. It’s not just about reaching a specific position or achieving certain milestones, but rather about continuously striving to improve, innovate, and positively influence others. Success, for me, is about finding purpose in what I do, making meaningful contributions, and leaving a lasting legacy.
The timeline for achieving what I consider a successful position in my field can vary greatly and is not solely determined by the number of years in the industry or reaching a specific title. Rather, it’s about the journey of continuous learning, overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities for growth. Success is a dynamic and ongoing process that evolves over time, shaped by experiences, lessons learned, and personal and professional development. Therefore, it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact timeframe, as success is more about the culmination of efforts rather than a singular moment of achievement.
11. What advice would you offer to the next generation of aspiring leaders?
To the next generation of aspiring leaders, I offer the following advice:
- Embrace continuous learning: The world is constantly evolving, and as a leader, it’s crucial to stay curious and open to new ideas. Never stop seeking knowledge, whether it’s through formal education, mentorship, or self-directed learning.
- Develop strong communication skills: Effective communication is at the heart of leadership. Learn to listen actively, articulate your thoughts clearly, and inspire others through your words and actions.
- Cultivate emotional intelligence: Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s also about understanding and empathizing with others. Develop your emotional intelligence to build strong relationships, navigate conflicts, and motivate your team.
- Take calculated risks: Success often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and taking risks. Be willing to embrace uncertainty and learn from both successes and failures along the way.
- Lead with integrity and authenticity: Trust is the foundation of effective leadership. Be true to yourself, uphold ethical standards, and lead by example. Authenticity breeds trust and loyalty among your team members.
- Foster a culture of collaboration and inclusion: Great leaders empower those around them and foster a sense of belonging within their teams. Create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone feels heard and respected.
- Never underestimate the power of resilience: Leadership is not without its challenges and setbacks. Cultivate resilience to bounce back from adversity, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward towards your goals.
Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. Stay humble, stay hungry, and never stop striving to become the best version of yourself as a leader.
